Hub71 Partners with Google to Boost UAE Startup Growth

Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, has announced a strategic partnership with Google to accelerate startup growth in the UAE. This collaboration brings Google’s renowned “Google for Startups” programme to Abu Dhabi, creating unique opportunities for startups to scale and thrive in the competitive global market.

The partnership reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for technology and innovation, fostering growth for startups in the UAE and beyond. As part of the agreement, Google will launch an accelerator programme in 2025, selecting 25 high-potential startups from Hub71’s ecosystem for a three-month programme focused on scaling growth strategies and optimizing business models.

Startups within the Hub71 community will benefit from significant support, including access to Google Cloud credits, with top-performing startups eligible for up to $300,000 in credits – the highest tier available globally. Google will also provide custom playbooks to support early-stage ventures and connect Hub71 startups to its mentor network, offering direct access to global industry leaders and experts.

The partnership will open funding opportunities as Google introduces Hub71 startups to its investment divisions and parent company, Alphabet, creating potential for funding discussions centered on innovation and technological transformation.

During the signing ceremony, representatives from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Mubadala Investment Company, Google, and Hub71 emphasized the collaboration’s significance. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of Hub71, stated, “Hub71’s partnership with Google reinforces Abu Dhabi’s commitment to becoming a global technology leader. By leveraging the expertise of international tech giants, we are empowering startups with tools and global opportunities to thrive in a competitive digital economy.”

Anthony Nakache, Managing Director for Google in MENA, commented, “This partnership reflects Google’s commitment to empowering the UAE’s startups with resources and access to a global network of experts, helping them contribute to the UAE’s growing digital business landscape.”

Hub71’s CEO, Ahmed Ali Alwan, said, “This collaboration ensures Abu Dhabi remains at the forefront of technology and entrepreneurship.”

As part of the initiative, Google and Hub71 will facilitate knowledge exchange on emerging themes such as web3, sustainability, and artificial intelligence, fostering innovation and addressing market needs. This strategic partnership aims to empower startups, support sustainable growth, and position Abu Dhabi as a leading global tech hub.