Dubai has always been known for encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth. Now, it’s taking that support to the next level. Dubai SME, a part of the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has officially launched its new program called Go Global. This initiative aims to help UAE-based small and medium-sized businesses expand into international markets by guiding them with strategic planning, branding, and export readiness.
The idea behind the Go Global program is simple: help local businesses become global players. Whether it’s a homegrown coffee shop, a fashion brand, or a tech startup, many UAE businesses have what it takes to succeed abroad — they just need the right support.
Why It Matters for Dubai’s Economy
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Dubai’s economy. They make up over 90% of all businesses in the emirate and provide thousands of jobs. By helping these businesses grow beyond the UAE, Dubai is not only supporting local entrepreneurs but also boosting the city’s global economic influence.
“Dubai is already a global business hub,” said a spokesperson from Dubai SME. “With the Go Global program, we’re now creating a direct path for our local talent and businesses to reach international markets with confidence.”
This initiative supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy and position it among the top global cities by 2033. Export development is one of the key focus areas under this long-term vision.
What the ‘Go Global’ Program Offers
The Go Global program offers more than just motivational speeches or online resources. It provides practical, hands-on support for businesses ready to make the leap into foreign markets.
Here’s what’s included:
- Market Entry Strategy: Businesses will get guidance on how to enter specific international markets. Experts will help them understand local demand, cultural differences, pricing strategies, and competition.
- Brand Positioning and Rebranding: Many businesses may need to tweak their brand to appeal to global customers. This program helps them align their identity with international expectations without losing their local essence.
- Export Planning: From choosing the right markets to finding distributors, the program provides a step-by-step roadmap to exporting successfully.
- Workshops and Mentorship: Regular training sessions, mentorship from experienced exporters, and networking opportunities are all part of the plan.
Who Can Join?
The program is open to Dubai-based SMEs that already have a strong local presence and are ready to scale. It’s especially useful for businesses in sectors such as:
- Food and beverages
- Fashion and lifestyle
- Beauty and wellness
- Technology and innovation
- Retail and consumer goods
Applicants go through a screening process to assess their readiness for international expansion. Once accepted, they receive personalized attention based on their business goals.
Success Stories in the Making
Even before the official launch, Dubai SME had quietly tested the Go Global approach with a few select businesses. Some of these pilot participants are already seeing results.
For example, a Dubai-based natural skincare brand recently expanded to Southeast Asia after receiving branding and distribution advice through the early stages of this initiative. Another local food company started exporting snacks to Europe after refining its packaging and pitch for international retailers.
These early wins have encouraged Dubai SME to officially open up the program to more businesses across the city.
Empowering Local Talent for Global Reach
At the heart of the Go Global initiative is a belief in the quality and creativity of Dubai’s local businesses. From sustainable fashion brands to innovative tech startups, many of these businesses already have products that can compete on a global scale. They just need a boost — and that’s where Dubai SME comes in.
The program also aims to create a culture of global ambition among local entrepreneurs. While many businesses start with a focus on serving their community, Go Global inspires them to think bigger — to see their product on shelves in London, Singapore, New York, or beyond.
Partnerships for Bigger Impact
To make this happen, Dubai SME is also working with several local and international partners. These include logistics companies, branding agencies, export consultants, and trade offices around the world. By building this network, they aim to give participating businesses access to the right people and resources in their target markets.
“Going global is not just about shipping a product overseas,” explained one of the program advisors. “It’s about understanding how people in different parts of the world think, shop, and make decisions. That’s where our partnerships come in.”
These partnerships will also help businesses with things like customs procedures, legal requirements, and finding the right sales channels in other countries.
Looking Ahead
Dubai SME has big plans for Go Global. The program will continue to grow in 2025 and beyond, with more sectors, more markets, and even virtual expansion support for businesses looking to enter the e-commerce space.
There are also plans to host international roadshows, where selected Dubai-based SMEs will be able to present their offerings to buyers and investors from around the world.
Additionally, Dubai SME wants to use feedback from participants to fine-tune the program. This includes improving the training modules, adding industry-specific tracks, and creating tailored export toolkits.
Final Thoughts
The Go Global initiative is more than just another business program. It’s a powerful step in helping Dubai-based entrepreneurs dream bigger and go further. It shows that Dubai isn’t just a place to start a business — it’s a launchpad for global success.
With the right support, many of the brands born in Dubai could become household names worldwide. And with Go Global, that vision is starting to become reality.
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