Dubai’s Digital Ambition: Charting the Path to Become the Global Capital of the Digital Economy by 2033
Vice President of the Dubai Chamber for Digital Economy (DCDE), Saeed Al Gergawi, has outlined Dubai’s bold ambition to become the global capital of the digital economy within the next decade — an aspiration anchored in the city’s D33 Economic Agenda and propelled by a series of strategic initiatives designed to foster innovation, attract investment, and enhance the city’s competitiveness.
Speaking to NorvanReports, Mr. Al Gergawi noted that the DCDE, one of the three chambers operating under the Dubai Chambers umbrella, plays a pivotal role in supporting the emirate’s goal of doubling the size of its economy by 2033 — the year Dubai marks its 200th anniversary.
“We are big partners in Dubai’s ambition to be the capital of the digital economy, particularly when it comes to the city’s D33 strategy. The reason why it’s called D33 is because by 2033, modern Dubai will be 200 years old — and we have a goal of doubling our economy across all industries by then. Seven years is not a long time, and we are therefore supporting the government in achieving that,” Mr. Al Gergawi stated.
At the heart of this ambition is the Chamber’s drive to create a thriving ecosystem for startups and digital enterprises. Among the latest initiatives is the Dubai Founders HQ, described by Mr. Al Gergawi as “a center of gravity for startups” — a dedicated hub that offers a streamlined entry point for entrepreneurs seeking to establish operations within Dubai’s vibrant but complex business environment.
“We noticed that companies coming to Dubai often faced challenges navigating the 30 different specialized free zones. So, we listened to their concerns and launched the Founders HQ to serve as a starting point for businesses — a place to access guidance, resources, and community,” he remarked.
The DCDE’s portfolio of initiatives focuses on digital and capacity-building programmes that strengthen market access and innovation. Chief among such initiatives is the Business in Dubai platform — a 24-hour, size- and industry-agnostic service that connects local and international startups with over 100 ecosystem partners, including corporates, investors, and government entities.
Business in Dubai provides one-to-one matchmaking opportunities, corporate discounts, and access to essential business services. Since its launch, over 470 companies have been supported with nearly two introductions per business, all within 30 days — helping them navigate licensing, partnerships, and collaboration opportunities.
Complementing this is the Expand North Star, now recognized as the world’s largest startup event, organised in collaboration with the Dubai World Trade Centre. Additionally, the Chamber runs the Create Apps Competition — a global initiative that turns innovative ideas into revenue-generating applications. The 2024 edition of the competition attracted more than 6,000 participants, with four winners each receiving $150,000 to develop their apps.
Beyond programmes and events, the Chamber is also shaping policy. About 60 percent of private sector feedback submitted through the Chamber is incorporated into new legislation — a record-high acceptance rate that underscores the government’s openness to co-creating the regulatory framework with the private sector.
“A lot of what we do is by design, but much of it also comes from listening — understanding what investors and companies face, and being quick to accommodate that. Ultimately, our goal is to make Dubai not just a global hub, but the capital of the digital economy,” Mr. Al Gergawi concluded.
As Dubai races toward its 2033 milestone, the Chamber’s vision aligns closely with the emirate’s broader digital transformation agenda — to position Dubai as the world’s preferred destination for digital business, talent, and innovation.
