DET And Amazon UAE Collaborate To Launch Accelerator Programme For Dubai SMEs

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has partnered with Amazon UAE to introduce the ‘DET x Amazon Accelerator’. This initiative aims to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Dubai, enhancing their global competitiveness. By providing advanced digital tools, resources, and mentorship, the programme seeks to accelerate SMEs' digital transformation and expand their international presence.

In a significant move, the accelerator is part of the broader Dubai Traders initiative. This is one of ten initiatives announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The goal is to establish Dubai as a leading hub for entrepreneurship and SME growth through strategic partnerships with private sector leaders and digital solution providers.

The ‘DET x Amazon Accelerator’ leverages Amazon’s 25 years of global experience. It focuses on six key pillars designed to empower SMEs to scale online, improve discoverability, and broaden their reach. These pillars include access to Amazon’s global network, enabling sellers to explore new markets beyond the UAE.

Digital upskilling is a crucial component. Amazon UAE offers tailored workshops that equip SMEs with knowledge on using proprietary tools effectively. This helps them establish a presence on Amazon.ae and achieve swift success. Personalised guidance from trusted service providers further aids SMEs in maximising growth potential.

Amazon UAE enhances brand visibility through its "Shop Local" storefront and exclusive prominence during sales events. This connects millions of customers with local businesses on Amazon.ae, encouraging support for local sellers. Additionally, dedicated Amazon Ads credits are provided to launch impactful marketing campaigns.

The agreement was formalised in the presence of Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of DET, and Ronaldo Mouchawar, Vice President of Amazon Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye. Hadi Badri, CEO of Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), signed the agreement alongside Jasmin Frick, Director of Seller Success at Amazon MENA.

Strategic Collaboration for SME Growth

This collaboration highlights the cooperative spirit between government and private sectors. It utilises Amazon’s expertise through the D33 Dubai Traders programme to offer Dubai-based SMEs a unique chance to scale globally. The initiative aims to help SMEs build strong online presences and digitise supply chain processes.

"Our collaboration with Amazon marks a pivotal step in fulfilling the Dubai Economic Agenda D33’s goal of empowering local SMEs," stated Hadi Badri. "By offering a tailored suite of tools and support, we aim to accelerate growth for Dubai-based businesses globally."

Commitment to Local Business Empowerment

Ronaldo Mouchawar expressed that small businesses are vital to local communities and economies. "We are honoured to collaborate with DET on this capacity-building programme," he said. "It aims to expedite growth for hundreds of Dubai SMEs." He reiterated commitment to hosting products from 100,000 businesses on Amazon.ae by 2026.

This partnership exemplifies how government-private sector cooperation can leverage expertise for SME success on a global stage. By focusing on digital transformation and international expansion, it aligns with broader economic goals outlined in the D33 agenda.

With inputs from WAM