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9/22/25, 2:50 PM UAE launches campaign to become 'start-up capital of the world' | The National
UAE launches campaign to become 'start-up capital

of the world'

Government wants to see 800,000 new companies set up and thrive in next half decade

Deena Kamel
September 21, 2025

The UAE is seeking to boost the number of companies operating in the country by nearly 67 per cent
to 2 million by 2031, with a focus on developing the small-and-medium enterprises critical to its

economy.

The Arab world's second-largest economy is increasing its target from the current 1.2 million

companies, up from 600,000 five years ago, Abdullah bin Touq, Minister of Economy and Tourism,
said in a press conference in Abu Dhabi. Of these, SMEs comprise 94 per cent currently.

The UAE on Sunday launched a national campaign titled The Emirates: The Start-up Capital of the
World aimed at attracting and training Emiratis to set up their own businesses in sectors of strategic

importance to the economy.

“The campaign brings together more than 50 entities from both the public and

private sectors, with the aim of training and nurturing 10,000 Emirati
entrepreneurs, creating thousands of economic opportunities, and raising
community awareness on the importance of leveraging the economic
momentum the country is witnessing,” Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, UAE

US visa barriers a Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said in a Media Office statement.
win for tech sector
in Gulf, analysts “A series of initiatives will be introduced, with a call for all institutions to
say actively participate in this campaign and support its objectives.”

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SMEs form the backbone of the national economy, contributing more than 63
per cent of the non-oil gross domestic product. The importance of the sector is
underpinned by the fact that the UAE is currently home to 50 business incubators spread across the
country, Sheikh Mohammed said.

“The UAE also leads among 56 global economies in supporting SMEs and in providing the best
possible environment for their growth and success,” he added.

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