New Business Incubator Program Launches in Dubai
In a significant move to bolster the burgeoning artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem in Dubai,
the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and Meta have announced the launch of a joint business
incubator program. This initiative aims to foster collaboration, drive innovation, and support the
rapid growth of AI startups in the region.
A Strategic Partnership
The partnership between DFF and Meta underscores Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global
hub for AI and technological advancement. This incubator program is designed to provide
startups with the necessary tools, resources, and mentorship to develop cutting-edge AI solutions
that can be scaled globally.
Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO & COO of Dubai Future Foundation, stated, “This
collaboration with Meta is a testament to our ongoing efforts to create an ecosystem that nurtures
innovation and supports the growth of AI technologies. By providing fertile ground for startups,
we aim to establish Dubai as a global testbed for AI-based innovation.“
Program Structure and Focus Areas
The business incubator program will focus on five key sectors: energy, transportation, aviation,
tourism, and retail. These sectors have been identified as high-potential areas where AI can
significantly enhance efficiency and create new business opportunities.
The program is structured into four main stages:
- Defining Challenges: Identifying specific challenges within the key sectors that can be
addressed through AI. - Engaging Startups: Attracting and selecting startups with innovative AI solutions to
participate in the program. - Hosting at DFF: Providing a collaborative workspace at the Dubai Future Foundation,
where startups can develop and refine their solutions. - Announcing AI-Based Solutions: Showcasing the developed solutions and facilitating
their implementation within the respective sectors.
Leveraging Meta’s Expertise
Meta’s involvement brings a wealth of expertise and resources to the program. The company will
leverage its open-source AI suite to foster innovative solutions and activate economic
opportunities. Meta’s Head of Policy Programs for Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey, Joelle
Awwad, emphasized the importance of openness and collaboration in AI development. “The
future of AI lies in our ability to work together, share knowledge, and build practical innovations. This incubator program is a step towards creating a more inclusive and innovative
AI ecosystem in Dubai.” she said.
Supporting the Innovation Ecosystem
The Dubai Future Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting Dubai’s innovation ecosystem.
By providing sector-specific consultancy, leveraging networks and partnerships, and offering
open spaces for talent exploration, the DFF ensures that promising projects have the support they
need to succeed. This partnership with Meta is expected to enhance these efforts, bringing AI
solutions and applications to life.
Creating New Opportunities
This incubator program is not just about technological innovation; it’s also about creating new
opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs. By providing access to resources, mentorship, and a
collaborative environment, the program aims to accelerate the growth of AI startups, enabling
them to scale rapidly and effectively.
Abdulaziz AlJaziri highlighted the broader vision of the program: “Our goal is to support the
overall innovation system and create a dynamic environment where AI solutions can thrive. This
initiative will help us bring exceptional solutions to the market, enhancing the quality of life and
multiplying digital economy opportunities on a global scale.”
The joint business incubator program launched by the Dubai Future Foundation and Meta marks
a significant milestone in Dubai’s journey to becoming a global AI hub. By fostering
collaboration, enhancing innovation, and supporting startups, this initiative is set to drive the
next wave of AI advancements in the region.
We are excited about the joint business incubator program by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and
Meta. This initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global leader in artificial
intelligence (AI) and technological innovation. By providing access to Meta’s AI tools and DFF’s support
network, the program is a game-changer for AI startups, fostering innovation in key sectors like energy,
transportation, aviation, tourism, and retail. This collaboration strengthens Dubai’s entrepreneurial
ecosystem and nurtures talent through mentorship and resources. With a focus on openness and
collaboration, the program sets the stage for global AI adoption and solidifies Dubai’s position as a global
AI hub.
