The Dubai government has unveiled the next phase of its ambitious research, development, and innovation programme, committing AED 750 million ($204.2 million) over the next three years. This initiative aims to position the emirate as a global hub for knowledge, technology, and innovation.
Economic and Job Creation Goals
By 2033, the programme, spearheaded by the Dubai Future Foundation, aims to generate AED 20 billion annually for Dubai’s economy, create 120,000 jobs, and support 600 start-ups. It will also strengthen collaboration with global universities and research centres, increase private-sector R&D investments to 50% of total funding, and boost the innovation sector’s GDP contribution to 2.5%.
A key component of this phase is the establishment of the Institute for Future Research, which will facilitate partnerships with international academic and research institutions to drive impactful innovation.
Sheikh Hamdan’s Vision for Innovation
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, approved the initiative during a meeting of the Executive Council of Dubai. He emphasized its alignment with Dubai’s long-term vision for sustainability and economic diversification.
“The Dubai government continues to reinforce the emirate’s status as a global hub for innovation, development, sustainability, resilience, and future readiness,” Sheikh Hamdan stated.
Strategic Goals of the Initiative
- Boosting Economic Diversification: By investing heavily in R&D, Dubai seeks to reduce dependency on traditional revenue sources like oil and tourism, pivoting toward a tech-enabled economy.
- Global Competitiveness: Strengthening Dubai’s position in global innovation rankings by attracting foreign investments and partnerships.
- Encouraging Entrepreneurship: The initiative supports startups and SMEs by providing funding and infrastructure for experimentation and product development.
Complementary Strategies for Growth
Dubai’s innovation programme is part of a broader economic strategy. Last month, the emirate announced its largest-ever government budget for 2025-2027, amounting to AED 272 billion ($74 billion). For 2025 alone, AED 86.26 billion has been allocated, with 46% directed toward infrastructure projects, including transport systems, renewable energy, and urban development.
Additionally, Dubai launched three strategies to strengthen its global leadership in sustainability and resilience:
- Dubai Food Security Strategy: Aims to reduce food waste by 2%, increase high-tech agricultural projects by 15%, and raise public awareness of food security to 90%.
- Dubai Resilience Strategy: Focuses on readiness for future challenges through economic stability, infrastructure development, and strong governance.
- Judicial Reform Initiatives: Introduced by Dubai Public Prosecution, these include smart fines, alternative penalties like community service, and streamlined litigation using advanced technologies.
Looking Ahead
This comprehensive R&D programme, alongside Dubai’s strategic economic and governance reforms, underscores the emirate’s commitment to becoming a global benchmark for innovation and sustainability. As Dubai sets its sights on a future-ready economy, its integrated strategies will drive progress across industries, foster resilience, and create a thriving environment for innovation.
These efforts further solidify Dubai’s position as a world leader in innovation, sustainability, and governance, paving the way for an inclusive and prosperous future.
