Entrepreneurs from around the world flock to do business in Dubai – so much so that 50% of companies in the emirate are startups. As well as a strategic location in the heart of the Middle East, a diverse and strong economy and an attractive tax regime, there are many more factors behind its popularity.
One that is often overlooked is the prevalence of business incubators and other support centres. Designed to nurture innovation and foster growth, they give startups the guidance, tools and in some cases, the funding to take their operations to the next level.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top business incubators in Dubai and look at the many benefits of working in this kind of environment.
What is a business incubator in Dubai?
In short, startup incubators are collaborative programmes designed to help small businesses launch and grow. They usually provide support to entrepreneurs by offering office space, coaching, mentoring, networking and investment opportunities.
With easy access to these resources, founders can focus more on developing their concept and fine-tuning their business. During this incubation phase, entrepreneurs can make the most of industry-leading facilities and expertise at much lower cost, giving their enterprise more opportunity to take off.
Top Business incubators in Dubai
MBZ Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC)
Based at Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, MBZ Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center has been designed to support businesses relating to the innovation and adoption of AI. With entrepreneurship courses, engineering support, funding opportunities and world-class facilities, it facilitates the journey from ideation to start-up launch.
Area 2071
Under the guidance of the Dubai Future Foundation, Area 2071 nurtures global talents, supporting them to launch and grow their business in the UAE. Benefits of Area 2071 membership include access to a strategic partner, mentor and investor network, plus subsidised licensing fees.
in5
Overseen by TECOM, in5 supports startups with business establishment services, mentorship, networking events and investment opportunities. Focused on tech, design and media, the hub gives members access to labs, studios and creative workspaces.
Goodforce Labs
Goodforce Labs was founded in the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) to support the development of businesses in food and agriculture, education, finance and lifestyle. The incubator offers direct access to experienced mentors who encourage entrepreneurs to find solutions to the most pressing social issues and bring about positive change in the world.
Co-Dubai
The Co-Dubai provides business development programs and workspaces for entrepreneurs wishing to launch creative businesses. The incubator offers workshops, training courses and more to support creative startups with their commercial endeavours.
Kind Incubator
Powered by AstroLabs, Kind Incubator drives digital growth in companies and people. It supports UAE and Saudi Arabian-based tech startups with company set-up and go-to-market services, and helps these businesses attract global talent to their teams.
InnCuVation Spaces
With locations in the Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah campuses of The Higher College of Technology, InnCuVation helps students to undertake innovative and entrepreneurial ventures. The incubator offers access to mentoring, high-tech infrastructure such as 3D printers and dedicated workspaces. To date, it has helped to launch over 130 startups.
The British Centre for Business (BCB)
Established in 2013, the BCB provides guidance, operational support and market entry services to international entrepreneurs wishing to do business in the UAE. Part of OCO Global, BCB offers a full spectrum of business support services, from practical assistance with company set-up to training for import and export.
Concept+
The Concept+ incubator center offers in-house services, a strategic partner network, and all the support needed for startups to thrive in the UAE and beyond. Along with business support, technical support, marketing support and financial support, Concept+ assists with legal work, recruiting and training.
TALG
TALG is designed for entrepreneurs wishing to develop luxury brands in the fields of fashion, jewellery, cosmetics, accessories, perfumes, shoes and premium goods. TALG offers a range of services and provides workspaces to help incubate, launch and grow these products throughout the UAE and globally.
ZtartUp.com
Launched in 2020, ZtartUp is the UAE’s first private multi-sector tech business incubator. With a focus on art, film, music, services, sport, technology and trade, it offers a wide range of services, including state-of-the-art workspaces, mentorship and networking opportunities.
Co-Kitchens
Co-Kitchens is a first of its kind incubator, giving the region’s food startups a platform for growth without the usual expenses of company formation and development. Co-Kitchens offer flexible memberships which include the use of a coworking kitchen as well as support with licensing, permits and approvals. Members get access to mentorship programs, a vast catering supplier network and state of the art cooking equipment.
Why work with Creative Zone.
Launching or relocating a business to Dubai can feel like a complex undertaking – particularly if you are new to doing business in the region.
That’s why selecting the right partner is a critical step when looking to launch or grow a business out here. As the most trusted advisor in the Middle East for all things concerning business setup in Dubai, Creative Zone has been empowering entrepreneurs and SMEs with comprehensive support since 2010. With a strong reputation for assisting businesses locally and globally, we offer a complete range of solutions for all your business setup needs.
When you work with us, you get fast, reliable and unbiased advice on your unique business setup requirements. We can help you choose the right kind of license for your business activity and take you through the entire process from start to finish.
We’re here to assist every step of the way. No matter your chosen activities, legal entity or visa requirements, we’re on hand with support, guidance and expertise. So, if you’re looking to lay the foundations for life in the UAE, Creative Zone is your ideal starting point.
Contact us today to kickstart your business in Dubai.
