Dubai Internet City Drives AED 100 Billion Boost to Dubai’s Economy, New Study Finds

A new study has revealed that Dubai Internet City has added AED 100 billion to Dubai’s economy over the past 15 years. The study was conducted in partnership with Accenture and included insights from leading figures in the information and communications technology (ICT) industry.

Dubai Internet City, which is one of the 10 business districts under TECOM Group, has played a key role in shaping the digital economy since it was founded in 1999. The district has helped Dubai grow into a global technology hub, aligning with strategic initiatives such as the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’. Today, Dubai Internet City contributes 65% of the emirate’s technology sector GDP.

A Hub for Innovation and Growth

Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City, highlighted the district’s impact: “Dubai Internet City has been a major force in developing the digital economy and driving innovation for over 25 years. This study reflects our commitment to supporting technology and artificial intelligence (AI) companies while fostering sustainable growth for Dubai’s economy.”

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Dubai Internet City has provided opportunities for both businesses and professionals. Over the years, it has helped create more than 125,000 direct and indirect jobs. In addition, the district has attracted investments worth AED 1.6 billion to support training and talent development.

Currently, Dubai Internet City is home to 4,000 businesses, including global giants, Fortune 500 companies, and startups. More than 31,000 professionals work in the district, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024.

A Legacy of Supporting Technology

Dubai Internet City was launched on 29 October 1999 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The aim was to strengthen Dubai’s knowledge-based economy. Since then, the district has attracted professionals from over 150 countries, providing them with a world-class infrastructure and business-friendly environment.

To further support companies, Dubai Internet City offers seamless access to over 200 corporate and government services through TECOM Group’s axs portal. This has made it easier for businesses to operate and expand in the region.

Encouraging Women in Tech and Startup Growth

Dubai Internet City has also made significant progress in supporting women in technology. Women make up more than 25% of the workforce in the district. Additionally, since 2021, the number of women-led startups at in5 Tech, TECOM Group’s startup incubator, has doubled. Startups and entrepreneurs in Dubai Internet City have raised AED 8 billion in funding over the years, with success stories including major unicorns like Careem and Souq.

A Global Technology Hub

For the past 25 years, Dubai Internet City has brought together some of the biggest names in the tech industry. Since 2021 alone, it has hosted more than 800 events to promote knowledge sharing and talent development. Its business community includes top global companies such as Oracle, SAP, Dell, Amazon, Google, Tencent, Huawei, Mastercard, and Visa. Leading brands like 3M, IBM, Ericsson, and Cisco have also set up research and development (R&D) centres in the district to drive technological advancements.

Dubai Internet City is part of TECOM Group’s network of 10 specialized business districts, which also includes Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Industrial City, and Dubai Design District (d3).

As Dubai continues to grow as a global tech hub, Dubai Internet City remains committed to supporting businesses, encouraging innovation, and driving the digital economy forward.