Expo 2020: Dubai's rising start-up ecosystem

Dubai is on a mission to become a smart city by 2021, and innovation is at the heart of this transformation. With a flourishing economy and a focus on cultivating a tech-savvy environment, Dubai is fast becoming a paradise for tech entrepreneurs. The emirate's government, along with major businesses, is joining hands to propel forward the innovative tech companies of the future. Under the Dubai Future Foundation, initiatives like India 2071 are paving the way for a robust innovation ecosystem. This government-funded entity provides incubator and accelerator programs, backed by some of the world's largest corporations. Kaofang Belhall, the CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, explains that Area 2071 is a hub where entrepreneurs, corporates, and venture capitalists converge, fostering collaborations and partnerships that are shaping the city's future. The forward-thinking vision encapsulated by 2071, which marks 100 years since the formation of the United Arab Emirates, showcases the leadership's commitment to steering the region towards a prosperous future. By providing platforms like the Dubai Future Accelerators, which facilitate connections between entrepreneurs and government entities without requiring equity, the Dubai Future Foundation is fueling innovation and growth. One success story from the program is Yakob, a data platform revolutionizing nutrition monitoring in schools. By analyzing students' food consumption patterns, Yakob not only aids individual schools in promoting healthy eating habits but also contributes to public health initiatives. CEO Faisal envisions a future where the data collected will drive significant insights that can benefit governments and insurance companies in reducing healthcare costs. The company's business model involves offering its software for free to schools and earning commissions from vendors through increased sales. Looking ahead, Yakob aims to scale globally and continue making strides in improving nutrition habits among the next generation. Another key player in Dubai's burgeoning start-up scene is the Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Centre (DTEC), situated in Silicon Oasis. Backed by the government, DTEC serves as a launchpad for tech entrepreneurs, providing essential resources like co-working spaces, venture capital support, and accelerator programs. Executive Vice President William Chappell emphasizes the vital role that start-ups play in driving economic growth, underscoring the government's commitment to nurturing SMEs and start-ups for a robust economy. The start-ups housed within DTEC are increasingly focusing on tech-driven solutions, with a shift towards SaaS, artificial intelligence, and blockchain innovations. Notable success stories include Interlac, an aviation and travel incubator supported by industry giants Emirates and TAA, as well as The Concept, a sustainable design company that is revolutionizing in-flight dining with its tech-enabled, eco-friendly food trays. With a mission to create sustainable, lightweight trays embedded with RFID technology for enhanced passenger experience, The Concept is making waves in the aviation industry with deals worth millions. Through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability, Dubai's start-up ecosystem is positioning itself as a global hub for tech entrepreneurs, driving the city towards a bright and tech-centric future.