The UAE offers substantial government-backed funding and support for startups. Here is a complete guide to UAE government startup programmes in 2025.
Dubai Programmes
Mohammed Bin Rashid Fund for SME (MBRHE Fund): Provides funding (AED 100,000-2,000,000) for UAE SMEs in Dubai. Requirements: UAE national founder (at least 51% UAE national ownership) for some programmes. Other programmes open to expat-owned companies. Loan terms: 0% interest government loans, repayable over 3-5 years. How to apply: via the SMBHRF website, with a business plan and financial projections. Dubai SME: Not a funding body but provides business development support, mentorship, and connections for Dubai-based SMEs. In5 Accelerator (Dubai): Free co-working space and mentorship for qualifying startups in tech, media, and design sectors. Supported by TECOM Group.
Abu Dhabi Programmes
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development: Provides funding for UAE national-owned businesses in Abu Dhabi. Loan range: AED 50,000-2,000,000. Industries: manufacturing, healthcare, tech, tourism, food. Interest rate: 0% for UAE nationals. Some programmes open to expat businesses with UAE national co-founders. Hub71 (Abu Dhabi Global Market): Abu Dhabi’s tech startup hub. Provides: co-working space, housing support, health insurance stipend, government connectivity, and investor access. Eligibility: early-stage tech startups. Application via Hub71 website. ADIO (Abu Dhabi Investment Office): Provides incentives for foreign companies setting up in Abu Dhabi. Incentives include: cash grants, subsidised land, R&D funding, and regulatory support.
UAE Federal Programmes
Expo City Dubai Business: Post-Expo business hub offering incentives for companies in sustainability, technology, and commerce sectors. UAE National Innovation Programme: Government grants for R&D and innovation projects across key sectors (healthcare, space, clean energy). Administered by the Ministry of Economy. Application requirements: innovation roadmap, UAE local content plan.