Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, witnessed the launch of the 'UAE Future 50' initiative, featuring a list of future-focused Emirati companies.
According to Emirates News Agency, this initiative was jointly developed by the Government Development and the Future Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy. It is part of the Riyada entrepreneurship ecosystem, which aims to enhance the national startup and innovation landscape.
The initiative showcases 50 promising startups launched by Emirati entrepreneurs across 15 economic sectors, including fintech, healthtech, edtech, HR tech, food and agri-tech, space, cybersecurity, sustainability, renewable energy, smart mobility, advanced and creative industries, legal tech, and the sharing economy. These sectors are poised to boost the diversification and resilience of the national economy.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the UAE leadership's commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering an economic environment that supports startups in these future-focused sectors. He noted the role of Emirati innovators in driving economic diversification, advancing industries, and strengthening the nation's global competitiveness, which aligns with the ambitions of 'We the UAE 2031' vision.
The launch event, attended by notable dignitaries such as Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, and Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, highlighted the UAE's position as a global leader in future readiness. Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi underscored that the 'UAE Future 50' showcases the transformative power of Emirati entrepreneurs in supporting the government's goal to prepare the economy for future challenges.
Abdullah Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, reaffirmed the government's commitment to creating an environment that supports sustainable growth and strengthens the national economy. He highlighted the crucial role of innovative ventures and Emirati talent in propelling the UAE's transition to futuristic industries and boosting its global standing.
The initiative aims to spotlight promising Emirati startups in future-focused sectors by providing targeted support to accelerate their growth and recognizing entrepreneurial achievements. It seeks to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and inspire the next generation of national talent.
An event marked the launch of the 'UAE Future 50', featuring a talk by Emirati entrepreneur Faisal Belhoul, who shared insights on entrepreneurial success. The gathering attracted young entrepreneurs, investors, and representatives from investment funds, incubators, accelerators, family businesses, and leading companies. It also included an exhibition of the selected startups, showcasing their innovative ideas and achievements.
UAE startups have demonstrated strong growth potential and contribute significantly to job creation, economic diversification, and national development objectives. The 'UAE Future 50' builds on the success of the Future 100 initiative, highlighting emerging companies advancing future-focused sectors and supporting the UAE's global standing in innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment.