The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy have partnered with global innovation leader Plug and Play to launch a flagship three-month accelerator program.
This pioneering collaboration embeds high-potential startups directly into Dubai’s thriving corporate innovation ecosystem, offering a unique opportunity to connect with leading corporate organizations and unlock growth across the region.
According to the statement, “Now open for applications, the program is designed for ambitious post-revenue startups ready to scale.”
The program’s inaugural cohort will focus on Trade & Logistics, Connectivity & Digital Solutions, and Fintech. These key sectors are at the heart of Dubai’s drive for economic diversification and digital transformation, and are advancing the goals of the ambitious Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the city’s economy by 2033.
The accelerator brings together some of the most promising post-revenue startups and leading corporates, including DHL, du, and Visa, enabling strategic partnerships that drive innovation and commercial success. Entrepreneurs will be able to gain direct access to corporate innovation leaders, mentorship, investor exposure, training, and market entry through the accelerator. The selected startups will also receive dedicated support to enter and scale in Dubai’s corporate innovation environment, ensuring a seamless experience for founders.
For the participating corporates, the accelerator by Plug and Play offers early access to emerging technologies, opportunities to co-create solutions with high-potential startups, and play a role in shaping Dubai’s future-ready economy.
The key benefits offered by the accelerator, powered by Plug and Play’s renowned methodology, include:
Direct engagement with global innovation leaders within DHL, du, and Visa, unlocking doors to strategic partnerships, pilots, and major expansion opportunities.
Expert guidance from a diverse network of local and international mentors in product development, marketing, finance, and sales.
Access to investor networks, fundraising education, and tailored one-to-one support to facilitate capital raising.
His Excellency Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), the economic development arm of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), commented that the launch of this new accelerator, in partnership with Plug and Play, is a testament to visionary leadership and marks a new chapter in Dubai’s innovation journey.
“We are calling on bold, innovative founders to apply now, as this program is designed to connect entrepreneurs directly with leading corporates, expert mentors, and investors – all within one collaborative environment. It is an unrivalled opportunity to innovate, grow, and succeed in Dubai. Through the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, we are building the foundations for sustainable, innovation-driven growth and empowering startups to turn ambitious ideas into global success stories,” Badri added.
Saeed Al Gergawi VP Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy
“This accelerator by Plug and Play reflects Dubai’s determination to lead the next wave of economic transformation by connecting innovative entrepreneurs with real commercial opportunities. Our goal is to ensure that promising startups are empowered to create lasting impact in sectors vital to the emirate’s future growth. By linking global talent with leading corporates, the program strengthens Dubai’s role as a bridge between ideas and markets, positioning the city as a magnet for digital economy investment.”
Saeed Amidi, Founder and CEO of Plug and Play, noted that, “We are proud to partner with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, connecting leading corporations with innovative technologies.”
“With this new partnership, we are building a world-class program where entrepreneurs gain commercial access, mentorship, and investment opportunities to scale, while corporates benefit from direct access to cutting-edge startups that address their strategic priorities. This dual focus reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub where startups and enterprises co-create the future of innovation,” Amidi added.
By leveraging Plug and Play’s proven approach, focused on hands-on mentorship, rapid piloting, and real-world market validation, participants will gain an edge in scaling their solutions and accessing new markets, as per the statement.
