In a powerful display of the UAE’s long-term economic vision, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, presided over the launch of the ‘UAE Future 50’—a bold new initiative celebrating the country’s most promising homegrown startups.

The event, held just hours ago, was more than just a ceremonial launch. It was a declaration: that the UAE sees its future not only in oil, infrastructure, or tourism—but in the minds and creativity of its people, especially its entrepreneurs.

Empowering Homegrown Visionaries

Jointly launched by the Government Development and the Future Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy, the initiative is part of the broader Riyada entrepreneurship ecosystem. Its mission? To champion 50 Emirati-led startups pushing the boundaries across 15 strategically vital sectors—from fintech and healthtech to sustainability, space, and smart mobility.

These aren’t just buzzwords. They represent the pillars of a future economy—one that is diverse, resilient, and globally competitive.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that these startups are not just companies—they are vehicles for transformation. “Entrepreneurs are not only building businesses,” he noted. “They are building the UAE’s future economy, one idea at a time.”

A Vision Aligned with ‘We the UAE 2031’

The initiative dovetails perfectly with the country’s broader ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision—an ambitious national strategy that places innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent development at its core.

Sheikh Hamdan’s presence underscored the weight of government support behind such ventures. His message was clear: Emirati entrepreneurs are no longer just part of the story—they are leading it.

He called for continued support and inspiration for the nation’s youth, encouraging them to step into the entrepreneurial space with courage and curiosity.

Top Leaders, One Mission

The launch drew a notable lineup of high-level officials who share this vision. Among them were:

• HE Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs

• HE Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy & Remote Work

• HE Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future

Speaking at the event, Minister Al Roumi reaffirmed the UAE’s position as a global leader in future readiness. “What we’re seeing here is the next generation of economic drivers,” she said. “These startups will help us meet challenges before they arise.”

Her sentiments were echoed by HE Abdullah Al Saleh, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Economy, who highlighted how these ventures reflect the country’s shift toward high-tech, sustainable industries.

Celebrating the Pioneers

The event wasn’t just speeches—it was a celebration. Attendees included entrepreneurs, investors, incubators, and leaders from major family businesses and corporations, all gathered to recognize the brilliance emerging from Emirati soil.

A standout moment came from a talk by Faisal Belhoul, Emirati entrepreneur and Board Member of Dubai Chambers. He shared firsthand insights on the entrepreneurial journey, stressing the importance of turning challenges into catalysts for innovation.

Showcasing the Future—Today

An interactive exhibition allowed guests to explore the 50 chosen startups up close. From tech innovations to green solutions, the range was impressive—and it offered a powerful glimpse into the future the UAE is building.

Each startup wasn’t just a business idea, but a story of ambition, resilience, and national pride. These are the companies that will generate new jobs, attract investment, and help the UAE stand tall on the global innovation stage.

Building on Momentum

The UAE Future 50 builds upon the successful Future 100 initiative and marks a critical next step in the country’s economic evolution. By spotlighting emerging ventures in future-focused sectors, the initiative doesn’t just acknowledge entrepreneurial excellence—it actively accelerates it.

It also serves as an invitation: to the next wave of dreamers, thinkers, and doers. The message? There’s a place for you in the UAE’s future—and that future starts now.