Prime Highlight
- Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy supported a record number of digital startups in 2025, highlighting the emirate’s growing appeal as a global center for innovation and digital business.
- Strong focus on AI, fintech, and international founders reflects Dubai’s strategy to build a future-ready digital economy.
Key Facts
- The chamber supported 1,690 digital startups in 2025, a 39.7% increase from the previous year, with international companies accounting for 75% of the total.
- AI-focused startups made up about 15% of those supported, while fintech firms represented 12%, supported by initiatives such as Dubai Founders HQ and Expand North Star 2025.
Background
Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy supported the establishment and growth of 1,690 digital startups in 2025, marking a 39.7 percent increase from the previous year and underlining Dubai’s rising appeal as a global centre for digital business.
The chamber said companies working in artificial intelligence made up around 15 percent of the startups it supported, while fintech firms accounted for 12 percent. Businesses focused on mobility technology, software-as-a-service, and e-commerce together represented about 20 percent of the total. International companies dominated the mix, forming 75 percent of all startups backed during the year.
The growth reflects Dubai’s broader strategy to build a strong digital economy supported by advanced infrastructure, flexible regulation, and access to global markets. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, said the chamber continues to help digital firms scale from Dubai by offering an ecosystem designed for fast growth and innovation.
A major boost came from the launch of Dubai Founders HQ in October. The initiative, developed with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, combines a physical campus with a digital platform to connect founders, investors and corporate partners, strengthening support for startups and small businesses.
The chamber’s “Business in Dubai” platform also played a key role. In 2025, nearly half of the supported companies received help with business setup and access to accelerators and incubators, while 31 percent used wider business support services.
Innovation programmes added further momentum. The Create Apps Championship launched more than 55 smart applications and provided funding of over AED 2.5 million. Meanwhile, Expand North Star 2025 drew more than 2,000 startups and 1,200 investors managing over $1.1 trillion in assets.
This year, the chamber hosted dozens of events, led international roadshows in key markets, and released research reports, including advice on using AI to grow businesses. These actions helped make Dubai a leading global hub for digital entrepreneurship.
