Dubai Launches Flagship Accelerator to Drive Startup Growth and Innovation
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy have partnered with global innovation leader Plug and Play to launch a flagship three-month accelerator programme, now open for applications.
Targeted at ambitious post-revenue startups, the initiative embeds founders directly into Dubai’s corporate innovation ecosystem, fostering connections with leading organizations such as DHL, du, and Visa. The inaugural cohort will focus on Trade & Logistics, Connectivity & Digital Solutions, and Fintech—sectors central to Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, which seeks to double the city’s economy by 2033.
Participants will gain access to mentorship, investor networks, tailored training, and market entry opportunities, while corporates benefit from early access to emerging technologies and the chance to co-create solutions with high-potential startups.
Hadi Badri, CEO of Dubai Economic Development Corporation, hailed the programme as “a testament to visionary leadership,” while Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, emphasized its role in positioning Dubai as “a magnet for digital economy investment.” Plug and Play CEO Saeed Amidi noted the dual value for both entrepreneurs and corporates, underscoring Dubai’s growing role as a global innovation hub.
Aligned with the D33 Agenda, the accelerator supports Dubai’s ambition to create 30 unicorns and transition 400 SMEs into large businesses by 2033, further strengthening its position as a destination for business, investment, and global talent.
