A Strategic Boost for Dubai’s Startup Ecosystem
Dubai has taken another decisive step toward cementing its position as a global innovation powerhouse. Dubai Founders HQ has entered a multi-year partnership with global venture capital firm Antler to launch a flagship founder residency programme designed to accelerate venture-backed startups from the emirate.
The collaboration was announced by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism alongside the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. At its heart, the initiative seeks to create a strong pipeline of high-potential startups by nurturing founders from the earliest idea stage through to securing investment and scaling their businesses.
This move aligns closely with the ambitious Dubai Economic Agenda D33, a roadmap that aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy by 2033 and position the city among the world’s top global hubs for business and innovation. A core target under D33 is the creation and scaling of 30 unicorns—startups valued at over $1 billion—within the decade.
Building on the Momentum of Dubai Founders HQ
Dubai Founders HQ was launched in October 2025 as a centralised platform designed to connect entrepreneurs with investors, corporates, mentors, and ecosystem partners. It was created to simplify the startup journey in Dubai, offering a unified space where ideas can be transformed into high-growth companies.
Since its launch, Dubai Founders HQ has focused on reducing friction for founders—whether that involves accessing capital, building partnerships, or navigating regulatory processes. By partnering with Antler, the platform strengthens its offering with a globally recognised venture-building model.
The newly launched residency programme is expected to upskill more than 600 founders over the coming years. Participants will benefit from structured guidance, global best practices, and direct access to early-stage funding opportunities.
This is not merely a training programme. It is a long-term commitment to developing founders who are capable of building companies that compete on a global scale while remaining rooted in Dubai.
What the Founder Residency Offers
At the core of the partnership is Antler’s internationally respected Residency Programme, now delivered directly from the Dubai Founders HQ campus. Antler operates in multiple major startup ecosystems worldwide and is known for backing founders at the earliest stages—even before a company is fully formed.
The residency is designed to help entrepreneurs refine their ideas, identify co-founders, validate market opportunities, and build minimum viable products. For many aspiring founders, these early steps can be the most uncertain and isolating. The programme provides structured support during this critical phase.
Participants will also gain access to Antler’s Academy, which offers curated learning sessions led by investors, experienced founders, and technology partners. This includes guidance on product development, fundraising strategies, go-to-market planning, and leadership development.
Crucially, the programme also opens the door to pre-seed investment from Antler. Founders who demonstrate strong potential and traction can receive early capital to accelerate product development and market entry. This funding component transforms the residency from a purely educational experience into a tangible launchpad for venture-backed growth.
Antler’s On-the-Ground Presence in Dubai
As part of the agreement, Antler has established its UAE headquarters within the Dubai Founders HQ campus. By embedding its investment and programme teams directly into the ecosystem, Antler ensures close proximity to founders and faster decision-making.
This on-the-ground presence is expected to significantly enhance collaboration. Founders can engage directly with investors, iterate on ideas quickly, and receive real-time feedback. The physical integration within the campus fosters a culture of accessibility, reducing the traditional barriers between entrepreneurs and venture capital.
For Dubai, attracting a global venture capital firm to establish its regional base within the city sends a strong signal to international investors and founders alike. It reinforces the emirate’s reputation as a destination where serious capital and serious ambition converge.
Supporting the D33 Vision
The founder residency programme plays a strategic role in advancing the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. By nurturing early-stage companies and equipping founders with world-class tools and mentorship, Dubai is building the infrastructure needed to produce globally competitive startups.
Scaling 30 unicorns is not merely an aspirational figure. It requires a systematic approach: talent development, capital access, mentorship networks, and policy support. The partnership between Dubai Founders HQ and Antler addresses several of these pillars simultaneously.
By targeting more than 600 founders in the coming years, the programme ensures a broad and diverse talent pipeline. Some ventures may pivot, others may fail, but a number will emerge stronger—investment-ready and capable of scaling internationally.
The broader economic impact extends beyond startup founders themselves. High-growth companies generate employment, attract foreign investment, foster innovation, and contribute to knowledge transfer across industries. In this sense, the residency is not just about startups; it is about shaping Dubai’s future economy.
Opening Doors to Global Entrepreneurs
Applications for the residency are now open to entrepreneurs from the UAE and internationally. This inclusive approach reflects Dubai’s long-standing strategy of positioning itself as a global crossroads for talent and innovation.
International founders who choose to build in Dubai will benefit from a business-friendly regulatory environment, strong digital infrastructure, and access to regional and global markets. At the same time, local entrepreneurs gain exposure to international networks and cross-border opportunities.
The programme encourages diversity of ideas, industries, and backgrounds. Whether a founder is working in fintech, artificial intelligence, climate technology, health innovation, or digital commerce, the residency provides a structured pathway to transform ambition into action.
Humanising the Founder Journey
Behind every startup statistic lies a personal story. Founders often face uncertainty, risk, and intense pressure as they pursue their vision. The residency programme acknowledges this human dimension by creating a supportive community where founders can connect, collaborate, and learn from one another.
By bringing together ambitious individuals under one roof, Dubai Founders HQ and Antler are fostering a culture of shared growth. Mentorship, peer learning, and collaborative problem-solving are woven into the programme’s design.
For many participants, the greatest value may lie not only in funding or formal training, but in the relationships built during the residency. Co-founders may meet for the first time. Investors may identify the next breakthrough idea. Partnerships may form that would not have existed otherwise.
A Defining Moment for Dubai’s Innovation Ambition
The launch of the founder residency marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s innovation journey. It signals a transition from ambition to execution, from policy frameworks to practical support.
With the backing of government entities, the operational expertise of Dubai Founders HQ, and the global investment capabilities of Antler, the initiative brings together key ingredients for startup success.
As Dubai continues its transformation into a knowledge-driven economy, programmes like this will play a defining role. By investing in founders today, the city is laying the foundation for the next generation of global companies—companies that may one day stand among the 30 unicorns envisioned under D33.
For entrepreneurs ready to take the leap, the message is clear: Dubai is not only open for business—it is building the future, founder by founder.
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