Local Voices The UAE’s Emerging Entrepreneurs
By Marina Ezzat Alfred
The UAE has long been recognized as a global business hub, attracting multinationals and international investors. Today, a new generation of local entrepreneurs is reshaping the nation’s economy with bold ideas and innovative startups, signaling a shift from dependency on foreign enterprises to homegrown solutions. These forward-thinking individuals are transforming traditional industries and paving the way for a more self-sustaining and tech-driven future.
A Supportive Ecosystem for Innovation
Fuelled by strategic government initiatives such as the UAE Vision 2021 and the National Innovation Strategy, the entrepreneurial landscape has flourished. These programs have cultivated a dynamic environment that empowers both Emiratis and expats to bring their business ideas to life. With streamlined regulations, access to funding, and a strong push for innovation, the UAE is becoming one of the most startup-friendly nations in the region.
Success Stories Leading the Way
Notable examples have set a powerful precedent. Careem, founded by Mudassir Sheikha, Magnus Olsson, and Abdulla Elyas in 2012, evolved from a ride-hailing service into a tech ecosystem encompassing food delivery, payments, and car rentals. Its $3.1 billion acquisition by Uber in 2019 remains a landmark achievement in the region’s startup history.
Souq.com, founded by Ronaldo Mouchawar in 2005, revolutionized e-commerce in the Middle East and was acquired by Amazon in 2017. Similarly, Talabat, launched by Abdulaziz Al-Loughani in 2004, has grown into the GCC’s leading food delivery platform, reflecting the rapid shift in consumer behavior toward convenience and digital services.
Environments that Spark Creativity
Creative and tech hubs across the country have become incubators for talent and innovation. Dubai Design District (d3) nurtures creative industries by hosting collaborative events, workshops, and exhibitions. Abu Dhabi’s Hub71, launched in 2019, supports startups in fintech, AI, and health tech through funding, mentorship, and global connectivity. Meanwhile, The Cribb in Dubai provides a collaborative co-working space that fosters entrepreneurial growth through community engagement and expert guidance.
Revitalizing Traditional Sectors
The impact of local entrepreneurship extends beyond tech. In agriculture, Pure Harvest Smart Farms, founded by Sky Kurtz, uses climate-controlled greenhouses to address food security with sustainable solutions that reduce water usage. Other agri-tech startups are leading the shift toward vertical farming and hydroponics, tackling the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity.
In education, institutions like Hult International Business School are equipping future leaders with practical, innovation-focused curricula. Online platforms such as Almentor and Nabbesh are also bridging the skills gap, offering accessible training tailored to regional workforce needs.
Healthcare is undergoing a digital transformation led by platforms like YAPILI, which connects patients with healthcare providers across Africa and the Middle East. Regional startups such as Healthigo and DabaDoc are streamlining patient care with services like telemedicine, digital records, and online appointment systems, improving both access and outcomes.
Looking Ahead
The UAE’s entrepreneurial future is bright. With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation, startups are tackling challenges that are both local and global in scope. Continued government support through initiatives like the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund and a growing network of angel investors will be critical to sustaining this momentum.
The rise of local entrepreneurs marks a transformative era for the UAE. These visionary leaders are not only redefining business norms but are also shaping the region’s cultural and economic identity. As they push boundaries and inspire future generations, their voices will continue to lead the conversation in the region’s innovation journey.