Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy announced that it supported the establishment and expansion of 1,690 digital startups in Dubai during 2025.

This marks a 39.7% increase compared to 2024. It also highlights the chamber’s growing role in strengthening Dubai’s position as a preferred global destination for digital companies and entrepreneurs.

As a result, Dubai continues to attract founders, investors, and technology-driven businesses from around the world.

According to the chamber, companies specialising in artificial intelligence made up around 15% of the supported businesses. Meanwhile, fintech enterprises accounted for 12%.

In addition, startups focused on mobility technology, software-as-a-service (SaaS), and e-commerce represented a combined 20% of the total.

At the same time, global companies formed 75% of all supported firms in 2025. This reflects Dubai’s strong international appeal within the digital economy.

Furthermore, in October 2024, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched Dubai Founders HQ.

The initiative aims to strengthen Dubai’s startup and SME ecosystem. It was introduced as a joint effort between the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.

Notably, Dubai Founders HQ is a ‘phygital’ platform. It combines a physical campus with a digital ecosystem.

As a result, founders, investors, corporates, and enablers can collaborate under one roof. This supports innovation, networking, and business growth.

Meanwhile, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to digital transformation.

He stated that Dubai aims to build a fully integrated digital economy. This includes advanced infrastructure, agile legislation, and a pro-innovation business environment.

Moreover, he said the chamber is focused on helping digital companies scale from Dubai. This is achieved by providing regulation support, infrastructure, and market access.

Consequently, Dubai continues to enhance its competitiveness. It also attracts global investment and top technology talent.

In addition, the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy operates the ‘Business in Dubai’ platform.

The platform offers corporate services in partnership with trusted organisations. It also provides business matchmaking support.

As a result, companies can find suitable partners, investors, and customers more efficiently.

During 2025, 48% of assisted companies received support with business set-up services. They also gained access to accelerators and incubators.

Meanwhile, 31% benefited from wider business support services available through the platform.

Furthermore, in April 2025, Sheikh Hamdan honoured winners of the Create Apps Championship.

The programme forms part of the ‘Create Apps in Dubai’ initiative launched in March 2023.

Its main goal is to accelerate innovation in smart application development. It also supports Dubai’s ambition to become a global digital hub.

Since its launch, the championship has received more than 5,800 registrations.

In addition, it has supported the development of over 55 smart applications.

In November 2024, the chamber announced the third edition of the championship.

It also introduced a new Participant Support Programme for high-potential teams.

The programme helps teams complete their projects through accelerator support. It aims to launch at least 50 additional applications.

Moreover, participants gain access to training, guidance, and best practices.

The championship also offers funding packages exceeding AED 2.5 million.

Meanwhile, October 2025 marked the 10th edition of Expand North Star.

The event was organised by Dubai World Trade Centre. It was hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy at Dubai Harbour.

It attracted more than 2,000 startups and over 1,200 investors.

These investors manage assets worth more than US$1.1 trillion.

In addition, founders of 40 unicorns attended. Their combined valuation exceeded US$900 billion.

As a result, the event reinforced Dubai’s growing influence in global digital entrepreneurship.

Throughout 2025, the chamber also organised 36 sector-focused events.

It conducted 17 international roadshows across multiple countries.

These included Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Portugal, Singapore, the UK, the US, Vietnam, and South Korea.

During these visits, the chamber engaged with more than 2,500 digital startups and ecosystem partners.

Furthermore, eight reports were published during the year.

These included The Entrepreneur’s AI Playbook. The report aims to help founders use AI tools to launch and scale their businesses.

Another report focused on foreign direct investment destinations in the technology sector.

Overall, the results highlight the steady growth of Dubai digital startups in 2025.

They also underline Dubai’s expanding role as a global centre for innovation, investment, and digital entrepreneurship.

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