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3/19/25, 1:55 PM Future100 initiative discusses fostering innovation in tech and sustainable ventures and enhancing UAE's entrepreneurial ecosyste…
H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of

the UAE, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

The initiative featured 15 sessions with 48 distinguished speakers including ministers,

senior officials, and industry experts. Discussions revolved around key topics such as

artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, tech-driven entrepreneurship, the future of
SMEs, innovative investment strategies, the role of innovation and technology in financial

models, and mechanisms to support SMEs in expanding within the new economy.

Additionally, the sessions highlighted the critical role of female entrepreneurs in
generating tangible positive impacts on society and the national economy.

Speaking at the opening session, H.E. Alia Al Mazrouei emphasized that the Future100

initiative has become a key enabler for the growth of the UAE's new economy. The
initiative aims to accelerate the growth of high-potential SMEs in key future economy

sectors and support their expansion into regional and global markets.

She highlighted that thanks to the UAE's visionary leadership, the country has
successfully established a competitive legislative framework that attracts entrepreneurs

and startups worldwide, providing the necessary initiatives and enablers for their success.

SMEs currently account for 94% of all businesses in the UAE, with 25,000 SMEs founded
by Emirati youth in 2024 alone. The UAE is home to over 50 government and private

business incubators and accelerators, contributing to its recognition as the best global

destination for business and economic activities in 2024, according to the Global

Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). The UAE also ranked first globally in the GEM
Entrepreneurship Index for 2023-2024 for the third consecutive year, excelling in key

indicators such as financing, market accessibility, and government support.

H.E. Al Mazrouei underscored that developing national entrepreneurship is a strategic
priority for the UAE. It forms a core pillar of the country's economic agenda, led by the

Ministry of Economy, in collaboration with federal and local government entities, the

private sector, and academic and research institutions.

She outlined the UAE's new entrepreneurship ecosystem initiatives, designed to enhance

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