A flagship initiative under Dubai’s D33 agenda, the Founders HQ offers a powerful blend of digital and physical support to help startups launch, scale, and thrive in the emirate.
A Founder-First Hub for Startup Growth in Dubai
Dubai has officially launched Dubai Founders HQ, a dedicated platform and physical hub for startups and SMEs, as part of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). The initiative aims to help:
- Scale 30 unicorns from Dubai
- Support 400 SMEs to grow by 2033
Launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the initiative is a joint effort by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy (DCDE).
What Dubai Founders HQ Offers
Housed at the 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central (Dubai World Trade Centre), the Founders HQ blends physical infrastructure with digital tools, making it easier for entrepreneurs to launch, connect, and grow in Dubai.
Startups can access a comprehensive suite of services, including:
- Business setup assistance
- Sector-specific acceleration programmes
- Expert mentorship
- Investor networking opportunities
More than 25 public and private sector partners are already on board, including VC firms, telecom providers, banks, and innovation hubs.
“Dubai Founders HQ is a tangible step in our vision to create a founder-first economy and make Dubai the easiest place in the world to start a business,” said officials from DET and DCDE.
A Gateway for Global Startups, Especially from India
The Founders HQ is not just for local entrepreneurs—it’s also a gateway for international startups entering Dubai’s ecosystem.
- Strategic partnerships with Endeavor, Plug and Play, and others bring tailored support programmes for foreign founders.
- Indian startups, in particular, have shown strong interest—with over 300 participating at Expand North Star 2025 alone.
These early interactions are expected to result in new company formations in Dubai by year-end, adding depth to the city’s already $51 Bn-valued startup ecosystem.
Backdrop: A $51 Billion Startup Ecosystem
Dubai’s startup ecosystem is already one of the region’s most dynamic:
- Over 2,000 funding rounds completed
- 90+ incubators and accelerators active
- Strong government support through platforms like Business in Dubai
Dubai Founders HQ builds upon this momentum, translating policy vision into founder-centric infrastructure.
Expand North Star 2025: A Launchpad for Global Ambition
The launch was spotlighted at Expand North Star 2025, the world’s largest startup event hosted by DCDE and held at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
- Over 2,000 startups, 1,200 investors, and 40 unicorns from 100+ countries attended.
- Key themes included AI, fintech, sustainability, and cross-border growth opportunities.
Dubai used the platform to showcase how Founders HQ supports its global startup ambitions, with many participants already eyeing Dubai as their next base.
Turning Dubai Into a Global Startup Magnet
With Dubai Founders HQ, the emirate sends a clear signal: it’s serious about becoming a global leader in entrepreneurship.
- The platform simplifies entry and scale for founders
- Encourages VC collaboration and public-private partnerships
- Delivers real-time access to market, mentors, and money
This initiative is not just another startup hub—it’s a strategic execution engine aligned with Dubai’s D33 goals.
