In a bold move to shape the future of the UAE’s economy, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has approved a new AED 500 million fund to support Emirati entrepreneurs and startups.
The announcement came during a UAE Cabinet meeting chaired by Sheikh Mohammed, where he emphasized the government’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent, especially in sectors that will drive the country forward—like technology, green energy, and digital platforms.
A Powerful Step Towards the Future
This new fund isn’t just about money. It’s about giving Emirati youth and business owners the tools they need to innovate, build, and thrive. With a strong focus on next-generation industries, the fund aims to create an ecosystem where new ideas can grow into successful businesses.
“Supporting our Emirati entrepreneurs means supporting the future of our economy,” Sheikh Mohammed said during the meeting. “We want to see more of our citizens building successful projects, entering new industries, and creating solutions for the world.”
The AED 500 million fund is part of a larger effort to boost the UAE’s position as a global innovation hub. The Cabinet is encouraging startups that focus on artificial intelligence, sustainability, smart solutions, and digital transformation.
What This Means for Emiratis
If you’re a young Emirati with a business idea, this is your time. The fund will offer financial support, mentorship, and other resources to help you start or grow your business. It’s also designed to help existing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) scale up and explore international markets.
From tech-driven apps to eco-friendly services, the fund will prioritize startups that are aligned with the country’s long-term vision. That includes projects that support the environment, reduce carbon emissions, and adopt digital tools to make services faster and smarter.
Entrepreneurs can expect tailored support packages, which may include direct funding, guidance from industry experts, and even access to government contracts in some cases. The goal is clear: turn promising ideas into impactful businesses.
The Bigger Picture: A Thriving Emirati Economy
This initiative isn’t happening in isolation. It’s part of the UAE’s larger economic diversification strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on oil and invest in sectors like tourism, advanced manufacturing, space, and AI.
With Expo 2020 and other major events positioning the UAE as a center of innovation, this fund is the next logical step in empowering its people to lead from the front.
The AED 500 million investment comes at a time when the global economy is changing rapidly. Digital services are growing, climate change is a pressing concern, and the demand for smart, scalable solutions is higher than ever. The UAE wants to make sure its citizens are not just keeping up with these trends—but leading them.
Focusing on Innovation, Sustainability, and Digital Growth
The Cabinet has made it clear: they’re looking for future-forward ideas. Businesses that are digital-first, tech-savvy, and environmentally conscious will have an edge. This could include apps that improve community living, platforms that digitize services, or startups using AI to solve everyday problems.
Green businesses are also high on the list. From clean energy projects to sustainable fashion and eco-friendly products, entrepreneurs in this space are encouraged to apply.
If you’re an Emirati working on a project that uses technology to improve lives or protect the environment, this is your moment to shine.
A Boost for Young Talent
One of the fund’s main goals is to motivate young Emiratis to pursue entrepreneurship instead of relying solely on traditional job markets. The government wants to inspire the next generation to take charge of their future, take risks, and build solutions that the world needs.
Universities, innovation hubs, and incubators across the UAE are expected to partner with this initiative to help identify and nurture promising ideas. The focus will be on creating a full-circle support system—from early-stage ideation to product development, launch, and growth.
This initiative also aims to increase the number of Emirati-owned businesses, help them compete globally, and contribute significantly to the national economy.
Reactions from the Business Community
Emirati entrepreneurs have welcomed the announcement with enthusiasm. Many say it’s a game-changer and will encourage more young people to follow their dreams.
Fatima Al Kaabi, a 27-year-old startup founder from Abu Dhabi, shared her excitement: “This kind of support is exactly what we need. Knowing the government is behind us gives us the confidence to think bigger and work harder.”
Local business groups and startup networks are also preparing to help spread awareness about the new fund and guide entrepreneurs on how to apply.
How to Apply
While specific details on the application process will be announced soon, officials have confirmed that the program will be rolled out in phases. Interested Emiratis are encouraged to keep an eye on official UAE government platforms and entrepreneurship portals for updates.
Applicants will likely need to submit business plans, outline their innovation strategy, and demonstrate how their idea aligns with the UAE’s goals. Selection committees made up of business leaders and government experts will evaluate submissions.
Building a Stronger, Smarter UAE
With this fund, the UAE is sending a clear message: the future belongs to those who create it. By investing in its people, the country is laying the groundwork for a resilient, knowledge-based economy that can face tomorrow’s challenges head-on.
This AED 500 million isn’t just a financial investment—it’s a vote of confidence in the dreams, creativity, and talent of Emiratis.
And as Sheikh Mohammed puts it: “The sons and daughters of this nation are its greatest treasure. When we invest in them, we invest in the future of the UAE.
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