In the heart of Dubai’s World Trade Centre district, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, unveiled Dubai Founders HQ, a new hybrid hub designed to fast-track entrepreneurship and global investment under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
The initiative aims to scale 30 unicorns and 400 high-growth SMEs by 2033, reflecting Dubai’s plan to expand its innovation economy and strengthen private-sector participation. Located at 25hours Hotel One Central, Dubai Founders HQ blends physical infrastructure with a digital collaboration layer described as a “phygital” hub where founders can access mentorship, financing, and go-to-market support in one integrated platform.
“Entrepreneurship is a key engine of comprehensive and sustainable development,” Sheikh Hamdan said during the launch. “We are committed to fostering an environment that embraces creativity, encourages new ideas, and transforms them into success stories that enhance Dubai’s position as a global centre for innovation.”
The Founders HQ is a joint initiative between the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, with support from more than 25 public and private partners including accelerators, venture funds, and innovation platforms.
Its launch adds a new layer to the UAE’s growing network of entrepreneurial enablers, complementing initiatives such as The Garage in Riyadh, Hub71 in Abu Dhabi, and Dubai Future District Fund — each designed to foster capital access, attract global talent, and scale emerging technologies. Collectively, these programs position the Gulf as one of the fastest-growing regions for startup formation and venture deployment.
Industry observers note that Dubai’s ecosystem is maturing in step with the D33 agenda’s targets: doubling the size of the digital economy and increasing FDI inflows into innovation sectors. The new Founders HQ will operate as a connective hub, linking founders with government entities, investors, and enterprise partners, while offering access to licensing, mentoring, and investor-readiness programs.
Officials described the hub as a key milestone in the emirate’s ten-year plan to rank among the world’s top three cities for business and innovation. The space will host regular events, startup showcases, and investor roundtables to strengthen cross-border collaboration across MENA, Europe, and Asia.
By integrating both physical and digital touchpoints, Dubai Founders HQ underscores Dubai’s broader strategy — combining policy, capital, and community to accelerate the next generation of regional startups.
Dubai expands Startup ecosystem with launch of FoundersHQ