Dubai Internet City marks 25 years of empowering digital economy

Dubai Internet City is celebrating its 25th anniversary as a cornerstone of the Middle East’s digital economy, uniting global tech leaders and talent since its launch on October 29, 1999.

Designed to harness emerging technologies and bolster the UAE’s knowledge economy, the business district was unveiled by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Dubai Internet City has evolved into a vibrant hub for multinational corporations, start-ups, and Fortune 500 companies.

Its growth has been impressive, with customer numbers rising by over 17.5% in the first nine months of 2024, now exceeding 4,000 businesses.

The tech talent community has also expanded to more than 31,000 professionals, highlighting its appeal to global innovators.

Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City, said that Dubai Internet City has been a launchpad for tech pioneers and a leader in the regional digital economy.

"For 25 years, we’ve enabled impactful innovation and contributed significantly to digital transformation, particularly in AI and advanced technologies," he noted.

The district is home to key players in fintech, blockchain, AI and Web3, alongside leading firms in software and gaming. With 19 innovation and R&D centres operated by global leaders, Dubai Internet City fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Recent investments totalling over AED 1.9 billion, including the development of premium office spaces like Office Park and the ongoing expansion of the Innovation Hub, reflect the district's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the tech industry.

The fully leased Phase 1 of the Innovation Hub is home to industry giants like Gartner and China Telecom, with Phases 2 and 3 set to add over 530,000 square feet of premium space by 2025.

Dubai Internet City is part of TECOM Group’s portfolio of 10 sector-specific business districts, which also include Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Industrial City and Dubai Design District (d3).

.@HHShkMohd: Twenty-five years ago, we foresaw that technology would become the backbone of the economy, media, knowledge, and development. We launched a transformative initiative to drive technology, innovation, and e-commerce in the region — Dubai Internet City. This marked the… pic.twitter.com/8JufASieRn

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 29, 2024