IFZA Launches Scale360 Initiative To Empower Startups In The UAE's Vision For Global Entrepreneurship

The UAE is taking significant strides towards becoming a global hub for entrepreneurship, as evidenced by the recent launch of Scale360. This initiative is a collaborative effort between IFZA and Plug and Play, aimed at empowering startup founders with the necessary tools, mentorship, and resources to expand their ventures within the UAE market.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announcement of 'The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World' national campaign underscores the country's commitment to fostering an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Julia Timms, chief commercial officer at IFZA, stated, "The UAE's vision to become the global entrepreneurship hub resonates deeply with our mission. With the launch of Scale360, we are empowering ambitious founders to take their ideas further and faster."

She emphasised the focus on practical support to facilitate a seamless market entry for startups, thereby contributing to the nation's broader goal of economic diversification. This initiative reflects the UAE's dedication to transforming its economy and providing a fertile ground for businesses to thrive.

The inaugural cohort of Scale360 has attracted attention worldwide, with 136 applications from diverse sectors, leading to the shortlisting of 56 technology startups. From these, 17 ventures will soon be unveiled, each poised to make significant contributions across various tech domains.

The recent upsurge in the UAE's startup ecosystem is noteworthy, with tech startups in the country securing $872 million in funding during the first quarter of 2025 alone. This represents an impressive 865% increase year-on-year, highlighting the UAE's growing prominence as a destination for founders and investors.

Particularly, Dubai has seen a 135% rise in new digital startups compared to the first quarter of the previous year, with startups in the city accounting for 96% of the total capital raised in the UAE during this period. Such growth is indicative of the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape and the opportunities available for innovation and investment.

Scale360 distinguishes itself from traditional accelerators by offering a no-cost, high-support programme. It combines IFZA's efficient business services and vast network of over 2500 professional partners with Plug and Play's expertise in scouting and scaling startups globally.

This synergistic approach is designed to not only attract global talent but also to sustain their growth within the UAE's innovative economy. By doing so, Scale360 is instrumental in reinforcing the UAE's position as a leading entrepreneurial hub.

Participants in the programme can look forward to three months of hands-on support in establishing their operations, tailored mentorship, and exposure to key innovation platforms in the UAE.

The programme highlights include participation in GITEX Week and a Demo Week, offering startups unparalleled opportunities for immersion and showcasing their innovations. These activities are part of the broader effort to integrate startups into the UAE's dynamic ecosystem, fostering connections with corporates, investors, and government partners.

As the UAE's non-oil sectors now constitute more than 76% of its GDP, initiatives like Scale360 are pivotal in converting economic diversification efforts into tangible entrepreneurial opportunities. By supporting the growth and development of startups, the UAE is not only enhancing its own economic landscape, but also contributing to the global innovation ecosystem.