A new study conducted in partnership with Accenture has revealed that Dubai Internet City (DIC) has contributed AED 100 billion to Dubai’s GDP over the past 15 years. As one of the leading digital economy hubs in the region, DIC has played a pivotal role in Dubai’s transformation into a global technology powerhouse.
The Dubai Internet City – Impact Assessment Study quantifies the contributions of the region’s premier tech hub, which was established in 1999 as part of TECOM Group PJSC’s portfolio of 10 sector-specific business districts. The findings reinforce Dubai’s commitment to its Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to strengthen its position as a leading global economy.
Dubai Internet City’s Impact on the Tech Industry
DIC has driven Dubai’s digital transformation, generating 65% of the emirate’s technology sector GDP.
“In line with Dubai’s visionary roadmap to nurture the technology sector and enhance its role as a key economic contributor, Dubai Internet City has enabled both the regional digital economy and disruptive innovation for more than 25 years,” said Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City.
“This impact study reflects Dubai Internet City’s unwavering commitment to nurturing tech innovation that accelerates sustainable prosperity – for our economy and our people – through our globally attuned ecosystem for technology and artificial intelligence (AI) companies as well as global talent.”
Job Creation and Investment in Talent Development
DIC has played a key role in job creation, fostering a diverse and skilled workforce:
- 125,000+ direct and indirect jobs created.
- AED 1.6 billion was invested in training and talent development.
- 4,000 customers including multinational tech giants, Fortune 500s, and startups.
- 31,000+ professionals working within the district.
Since 2021, the number of women-run startups at in5 Tech, the incubator under TECOM Group, has doubled, while women now comprise more than 25% of DIC’s workforce.
DIC: A Global Hub for Innovation and AI
Dubai Internet City has been a launchpad for technology companies and continues to be a hub for AI pioneers from 150+ countries. Its business-friendly infrastructure provides seamless access to 200+ government and corporate smart services through TECOM Group’s axs portal, making it easier for businesses to thrive.
The district has also facilitated:
✔ AED 8 billion in startup funding for entrepreneurs.
✔ The rise of notable unicorns such as Careem and Souq.
✔ The establishment of 19 dedicated R&D and Innovation Centers, operated by global companies like 3M, IBM, Ericsson, and Cisco.
Dubai Internet City’s Role in the Global Tech Space
Over the past 25 years, Dubai Internet City has established itself as a hub for digital economy leaders, hosting more than 800 industry events since 2021 to drive knowledge exchange and innovation. The district is home to major tech giants, including, Amazon, Google, Tencent, Oracle, SAP, Huawei, Mastercard & Visa, and Dell Technologies.
These companies continue to develop cutting-edge solutions from their Dubai-based operations, reinforcing the city’s status as a regional and global technology leader.
The Future of Dubai Internet City
Dubai Internet City remains a key pillar in its long-term growth strategy, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). With its thriving ecosystem, world-class infrastructure, and commitment to fostering innovation, DIC is well-positioned to continue driving technological advancements and economic growth in the years ahead.
