Dubai is taking a step further to foster an ecosystem for the digital sector with the launch of Create Apps in Dubai, an initiative of the Higher Committee of Future Technology Development and Digital Economy to nourish local talent.

Announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the initiative aims to turn Dubai into an attractive destination for business opportunities by 2025 and train 1,000 Emiratis. 

Overseen by the Dubai Chamber for Digital Economy and the support of government entities and technology companies, it will identify priority areas and support development plans to empower UAE citizens in contributing to the country’s digital vision. 

The program will equip a select group of UAE nationals in partnership with the private sector in Dubai. The initiative aims to triple the number of app creators by 2025 and support 100 new national projects to develop apps available in app stores over the next 24 months. 

Sheikh Hamdan commented that the initiative supports Dubai’s ambition of becoming a global digital sector leader. “The digital transformation sweeping the world and the exponential growth of cutting-edge digital applications and platforms have created a new global competition for technological leadership.” He added that Dubai seeks to be at the forefront of this global race. 

The Crown Prince also met with app developers in healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, and others as part of the initiative. 

UAE digital technology spending is estimated to reach $20 billion over the next three years, according to a new report by the Boston Consulting Group.