Dubai Launches Employee-to-Entrepreneur Program for Startups

Dubai is taking a bold step to fuel innovation and entrepreneurship with the launch of the ‘Employee to Entrepreneur Programme’ by the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ). The initiative is designed to support employees from DIEZ and its affiliated economic zones in transforming innovative ideas into successful startups, reinforcing Dubai’s vision as a leading global startup hub.

The programme aligns with the national campaign, ‘The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World’, and aims to nurture an entrepreneurial culture within the workforce while contributing to Dubai’s knowledge-based economy. It also complements the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which targets positioning Dubai among the top three urban economies globally and aims to establish 30 unicorns by 2030.

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A Comprehensive Support System for Startups

Participants in the programme gain access to DIEZ’s extensive business ecosystem. This includes advanced infrastructure, tailored licensing packages, business setup services, and strategic initiatives that simplify the process of turning ideas into viable ventures.

Key support comes from:

• Oraseya Capital – providing advisory and investment assistance for startups.

• SANDBOX Accelerator – offering opportunities for project development and prototype testing in tech-driven environments.

• Scality Program – helping local, regional, and global tech startups scale operations in Dubai.

• Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus (Dtec) – the region’s largest tech hub and co-working space.

Structured Path to Entrepreneurial Success

The programme unfolds in three phases:

1. Idea Development – evaluating market needs and refining concepts.

2. Planning and Model Building – developing business plans, operational strategies, and resource allocation.

3. Launch and Expansion – connecting participants with potential investors and scaling their startups.

The first edition attracted diverse ideas across technology, mobility, healthcare, design, and other sectors. Each submission was carefully assessed for economic feasibility, scalability, market potential, and broader social impact, reflecting the wide-ranging expertise within DIEZ’s workforce.

Driving Dubai’s Startup Ecosystem Forward

By transforming employee ideas into tangible businesses, the initiative is set to strengthen Dubai’s startup ecosystem while promoting innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth. The programme highlights how strategic support and infrastructure can empower individuals to make meaningful contributions to the city’s ambitious economic vision.