DCDE supports expansion of 308 digital startups in first half

Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy (DCDE), one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has announced that it successfully supported 308 high-potential digital startups to establish and grow their businesses in the emirate during H1 2025, achieving year-over-year (YoY) growth of 39 percent compared to the 221 companies supported during the same period last year.

Omar Bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, commented, “We are committed to developing an integrated digital business environment that provides the foundations for success for talents and digital companies, and supports their expansion from Dubai to global markets. We continue our efforts to enhance Dubai’s attractiveness as a global hub for digital companies, entrepreneurs, and technology investors by strengthening the digital infrastructure, enhancing the legislative and regulatory environment, and creating an ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.”

Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, said, “In line with our commitment to supporting the growth of tech companies in Dubai, 10 events were organised during the first half of this year to enhance partnerships and support the digital economy sectors.”

“We also organised 15 international roadshows to showcase Dubai’s advanced digital business ecosystem and promote the upcoming edition of Expand North Star, the world’s largest event for startups and investors.”

Organised in October 2025 by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, Expand North Star brings together the world’s leading startups, innovators, investors, entrepreneurs, and digital leaders to explore the unique growth opportunities offered by Dubai and contribute to shaping the future of the digital economy.

The roadshows featured presentations on Dubai’s competitive advantages and the comprehensive support offered by the chamber to digital startups seeking to expand into the emirate.

It also included pitch competitions showcasing innovative ideas, with the winner in each city receiving a fully sponsored opportunity to participate in Expand North Star 2025.

Additional competitions were held for a chance to qualify for the final stage of the Supernova Challenge, the region’s largest startup pitch competition, which will be held as part of the exhibition.

Meanwhile Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has announced that it supported the establishment and expansion of 127 digital startups in the emirate during the first quarter of 2025.

This represents a 135 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, reflecting the chamber’s ongoing efforts to cement Dubai’s position as a preferred global hub for tech startups.

During Q1 2025, the chamber organised four events aimed at supporting the business community, empowering startups, nurturing talent, building partnerships, and enhancing the ease of doing business in Dubai.

In addition, 729 participants received training through the chamber’s digital upskilling programmes, which are designed to enhance the capabilities of specialised talent in advanced technology sectors and build a future-ready workforce.

The chamber also continued its efforts to support companies looking to launch or expand their operations in Dubai through its ‘Business in Dubai’ platform, which offers access to a comprehensive suite of institutional services. The platform also provides business matchmaking services to help companies identify suitable partners, investors, and clients.

During Q1 of 2025, the chamber expanded its network of service providers with the addition of 20 new partners, bringing the total number of platform partners to 114 across a wide range of service categories.

Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, commented, “The chamber is committed to playing a pivotal role in positioning Dubai as a global leader in the digital economy, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. We are continuing to support the development of a fully integrated digital ecosystem, built on world-class infrastructure and forward-looking legislation. Our aim is to foster the growth of both emerging and established digital companies, enable their global expansion from Dubai, and drive innovation and digital entrepreneurship across the economy.”

WAM