The UAE government announced new visa categories as part of the ‘Projects of the 50,’ a series of developmental and economic projects commemorating the UAE’s 50th anniversary, to accelerate the UAE’s development and consolidation into a comprehensive hub in all sectors, as well as establishing its status as an ideal destination for talents and investors.
The United Arab Emirates has once again proven why it is the go-to destination for visionary founders and bold investors. For the fourth consecutive year, the UAE has clinched the top global spot in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) report, setting a new standard for entrepreneurial excellence among high-income nations.
Backed by a record-setting $8.7 billion investment in entrepreneurship-focused initiatives, the UAE is not just nurturing startups — it's building a future-ready economy driven by innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
Out of 56 economies evaluated, the UAE led 11 of the 13 key indicators that define a thriving entrepreneurial landscape. From access to finance and government policy, to education, infrastructure, and ease of market entry, the nation’s comprehensive and forward-looking strategies are enabling founders to launch and scale faster than ever before.
This global recognition reflects more than just rankings — it’s a result of decisive government action, strategic reforms, and a national commitment to cultivating a high-performance startup ecosystem.
A staggering 70% of the population believes the UAE is fertile ground for launching a business, and 75% of early-stage founders plan to scale their teams significantly over the next five years. What’s more, 80% of startups are integrating digital technologies, reflecting the country’s leadership in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Whether it's fintech, sustainability, AI, or advanced manufacturing — the UAE is fast becoming the launchpad for the next generation of unicorns.
Adding to its accolades, the UAE also secured the top position in the NECI, a global index that evaluates a country’s entrepreneurship ecosystem based on policy, infrastructure, and support systems. The result? A well-oiled, innovation-ready platform for founders and investors alike.
With a bold goal of reaching one million SMEs by 2031, the UAE is accelerating its transition toward a knowledge-based economy. National strategies such as “Projects of the 50” are laying the groundwork for exponential entrepreneurial growth — where impact, innovation, and investment intersect.
The UAE is more than a business destination — it’s a movement for those ready to shape the future.
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