Dubai is making significant strides in R&D with the approval of a new phase for the Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation Programme, overseen by the Dubai Future Foundation. This initiative, backed by a Dh750 million investment, aims to establish Dubai as a global leader in innovation and technology.
The programme is set to contribute Dh20 billion annually to Dubai’s GDP by 2033, create 120,000 new jobs and support the establishment of 600 innovative startups.
Over the next three years, the programme will focus on forging partnerships with leading global universities and research centres. It also aims to increase private sector R&D spending to 50% of total investments and raise the innovation sector’s contribution to GDP to 2.5%.
HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, announced these plans during a meeting of The Executive Council of Dubai, highlighting the emirate’s commitment to a knowledge-based, technology-driven economy.
“The Dubai Government continues to reinforce the emirate’s status as a global hub for innovation, development, sustainability, resilience and future-readiness,” he said. “We have approved the objectives for the next phase of the Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation Programme, with a budget of AED750 million allocated to further advancing Dubai’s knowledge-based, technology-driven economy and boosting its global competitiveness. This step aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to establish Dubai as a leading global destination for top talent.”
A key component of this initiative is the launch of the Institute for Future Research, designed to enhance collaboration with academic and research institutions worldwide.
