Photo Credit : WAM
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME), operating under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has integrated the Hamdan Innovation Incubator (Hi2) into Dubai Founders HQ, creating a stronger support platform for Emirati entrepreneurs and startups.
The move brings Hi2, which has supported local innovators since its launch in 2014 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, into Dubai Founders HQ. The integration is designed to give Emirati founders easier access to mentorship, investment opportunities, corporate partnerships, and business development programmes.
As part of the initiative, Dubai SME has opened applications for a new 16-week technology incubator programme that will support 20 Emirati entrepreneurs in turning innovative ideas into scalable businesses.
The programme will begin in October 2026 at Dubai Founders HQ, a joint initiative by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. Established in 2025 under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the platform connects entrepreneurs with investors, industry experts, and startup ecosystem partners.
The incubator targets aspiring Emirati entrepreneurs at the earliest stages of their business journey, including individuals with innovative ideas and founders already developing a minimum viable product (MVP).
Participants will receive guidance on validating business concepts, identifying market opportunities, refining product strategies, and building commercially sustainable ventures. After completing the programme, founders will continue to benefit from Dubai Founders HQ through networking events, mentorship, investor introductions, and community engagement opportunities.
Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, CEO of Dubai SME, said the integration creates a complete pathway that helps Emirati entrepreneurs progress from an initial idea to an investment-ready business. He added that the programme welcomes founders regardless of whether they have secured funding or formally established a company.
The initiative supports the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double Dubai’s economy by 2033 while strengthening the emirate’s position as a global destination for business, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Applications for the Hi2 incubator programme are now open and will close in August 2026.
