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Technology and ICT

Strong technology ecosystem

Global hub for technology

As the region’s preferred innovation hub, Dubai is home to more than 2,300 technology companies. Digital and tech firms can test and market new products and technologies thanks to initiatives like Sandbox Dubai, a founder-focused start-up programme launched under D33. The sector is enhanced by the presence of global players like Meta, Microsoft, Google, IBM, Apple, Cisco, Tata Consultancy Services and Amazon. The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy aims to further strengthen this dynamic ecosystem by attracting 300 new start-ups to the city by 2024.

Booming telecom and ICT landscape

The ICT sector has witnessed strong year-on-year growth, showcasing the telecommunications market’s incredible potential for foreign companies and investors. ICT spending in the UAE is driven by increasing digitalisation and the adoption of leading technologies such as cloud, big data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). Leading national telecom companies Etisalat and Du are investing in research and development to provide world-class, 5G-enabled services. Companies operating here can leverage world-class infrastructure powered by 4,000 km of fibre optic cables and a smart grid to offer customers 24/7 integrated, connected and secure digital services. 

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Regulatory support
for technology adoption

Legal framework

Dubai operates under a civil law jurisdiction, boasting a standalone legal system managed by the DIFC Courts. Considerations underway to implement a common law framework across various free zones, further streamlining legal processes for tech enterprises.

Learn the regulations around running a business in Dubai.

Regulatory oversight

The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) oversees financial services within the region, including anti-money laundering measures. Additionally, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) vigilantly regulates virtual assets, ensuring a secure and transparent marketplace.

Innovation initiatives

Initiatives such as RegLab and Sandbox Dubai offer agile regulatory environments tailored for testing and commercializing emerging technologies.

innovation-industry-robotics-business-factory-dtcm

Intellectual property safeguard

Dubai boasts a robust intellectual property ecosystem. These safeguards guarantee comprehensive protection for creators and innovators, encouraging investment in groundbreaking ideas and driving the cycle of innovation forward.

Business people in DIFC.

8.5% CAGR

projected ICT market growth in the UAE by 2029.

US$136 million

DIEZ fund specifically for tech start-ups in Dubai.

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