Dubai Chamber for Digital Economy Launches 3rd Edition of Create Apps Championship With AED 2.5 Million Prize Pool
Vice President of the Dubai Chamber for Digital Economy (DCDE), Saeed Al Gergawi, has launched the third edition of the Create Apps Championship, an initiative designed to empower tech innovators and app developers globally.
Speaking at the launch on Monday, October 13, 2025, on the sidelines of the Expand North Star event, Mr Al Gergawi said the competition aligns with Dubai’s ambition to become the world’s leading digital economy hub.
“Ultimately, the goal of this initiative is clear. We want the city (Dubai) to be your partner in success. If you have an idea you want to test, or you’re already an existing startup looking for proof of concept for your product or service, we would love to partner with you on that,” he said.
Last year’s edition of the Create Apps Championship attracted over 5,800 applicants from more than 70 countries, resulting in the launch of 55 apps, many of which have secured funding from international venture capitalists.
According to Mr Al Gergawi, the programme takes participants through an intensive six-month journey — from ideation and skill-building to investor presentations and product launches. He noted that the Chamber recently introduced an alumni accelerator programme to further support high-potential entrepreneurs in taking their market-ready products to the next level.
“This year, we’re adding a new category — the Longevity App of the Year — alongside existing awards for Dubai’s Best App, and Most Impactful App,” he added.
The 2025 edition features a total prize pool of AED 2.5 million (USD 680,000), with category winners receiving USD 150,000 each, while the overall Dubai’s Best App will be awarded USD 275,000.
Mr Al Gergawi encouraged developers worldwide to apply and be part of Dubai’s growing innovation ecosystem, noting that finalists will be showcased at next year’s grand finale.
The Create Apps Championship is a competition organized by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy as part of the larger “Create Apps in Dubai” initiative, which aims to boost the UAE’s app development ecosystem. It encourages entrepreneurs, startups, and young individuals to develop innovative mobile apps, offering prizes, mentorship, and support for winning projects.
