Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers under the Dubai Chambers umbrella, has announced its significant support for the establishment and expansion of 485 digital startups in Dubai between Q1 and Q3 of 2024. This impressive figure reflects a remarkable 380% year-over-year (YoY) growth compared to the same period in 2023, showcasing the chamber’s commitment to fostering digital innovation.
Key sectors driving the growth include Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, which represented 11% of the supported startups, followed by Fintech at 9%, Software as a Service (SaaS) at 7%, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (TMT) at 7%, and Health Tech at 7%.
As part of its efforts to enhance digital capabilities, the chamber also trained 787 Emiratis in coding and mobile app development through its ‘Create Apps in Dubai’ initiative. The program aims to train 1,000 Emiratis by 2025, triple the number of app developers in Dubai, and support the creation of 100 new national mobile app projects.
His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, and Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, emphasized the chamber’s role in aligning with the UAE’s broader digital vision. “We are focused on consolidating Dubai’s position as a global leader in the digital economy, driving growth through digital transformation projects that generate AED 100 billion annually,” said Al Olama.
In addition to its growth initiatives, the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy organized 20 events and 22 international tours in 2024 to empower startups, foster partnerships, and promote Dubai’s digital ecosystem globally. The chamber also signed five strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and issued three reports on the thriving digital economy in Dubai.
The chamber’s efforts are vital to achieving the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and continue to strengthen the business environment, attract foreign investment, and enhance the UAE’s digital economy on the global stage.