Dubai Internet City Contributes AED 100 Billion to Local Economy in 15 Years

The Transformational Impact of Dubai Internet City

A new assessment has unveiled that Dubai Internet City has successfully contributed approximately AED 100 billion to Dubai's GDP over the last 15 years. This groundbreaking study, conducted in collaboration with Accenture and informed by a multitude of voices from the information and communications technology (ICT) sector, quantifies the profound effect that the region's premier tech hub has had on the digital economy.

Strengthening Dubai's Digital Ecosystem

Established in 1999 as part of TECOM Group PJSC's strategic vision, Dubai Internet City has grown to generate a staggering 65% of Dubai's technology sector GDP. This significant contribution is directly linked to the emirate's broader ambition to enhance its profile as a global tech hub. In alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda 'D33', the hub aims to bolster the local economy while attracting world-class talent and innovation.

Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City, highlighted that the district is a catalyst for both regional economic growth and innovative disruption. "Dubai Internet City has fostered a unique environment for technology and AI companies, nurturing collaborations that lead to sustainable prosperity for our economy and workforce," he noted.

Job Creation and Investment in Talent

The impact study further reveals that Dubai Internet City has facilitated the creation of more than 125,000 direct and indirect jobs, demonstrating its core function as an employment engine within the technology sector. Significant investments totaling AED 1.6 billion have been earmarked for training and talent development over the years. With over 4,000 established businesses and a workforce exceeding 31,000 professionals, the district recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024.

A Global Gateway for Innovation

This technology hub, inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has played a pivotal role in reinforcing Dubai and the UAE's knowledge economy. The district prides itself on its pro-innovation infrastructure which serves as a unifying platform for tech professionals from over 150 countries. This international diversity enhances Dubai's standing as a gateway for global expansion.

Furthermore, Dubai Internet City boasts exceptional support systems for its tenants, offering seamless access to over 200 corporate and government smart services via the TECOM Group axs portal. This operational efficiency simplifies business processes and enhances the overall experience for its community.

Empowering Women and Startups

The commitment to diversity is evident at Dubai Internet City, where women make up more than 25% of the workforce. Since 2021, the number of women-led startups within the district has doubled, showcasing a growing commitment to gender equality in the entrepreneurial landscape. Startups based in Dubai Internet City have successfully secured AED 8 billion in funding, with recognized unicorns such as Careem and Souq emerging from the area.

In terms of knowledge exchange and skill development, Dubai Internet City has hosted over 800 events since 2021, further fostering a collaborative environment for local startups and entrepreneurs. Among its numerous global industry leaders, notable mentions include Oracle, SAP, Dell, and Google, all operating extensive research and development centers within the tech enclave.

A Vision for the Future

As part of TECOM Group's expansive portfolio, which includes other specialized districts like Dubai Media City and Dubai Science Park, Dubai Internet City remains dedicated to its founding goals. As it looks to the future, the hub continues to support innovation and collaboration through its robust community of businesses and professionals.

Through its unwavering support and infrastructure, Dubai Internet City not only embodies the spirit of technological advancement but also reinforces Dubai's commitment to becoming a world-renowned digital economy leader. With ongoing initiatives and collaboration opportunities, the district aims to further enhance its impact while enabling the continuous growth of a vibrant tech ecosystem in the heart of the UAE.