December 4, 2025, Dubai, United Arab Emirates:
Dubai SME, a part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has announced a strategic collaboration with Google to enhance the digital competitiveness of Emirati-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The initiative aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to make Dubai the world’s most dynamic and SME-friendly business hub.
The announcement, made in the presence of H.E. Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, and Anthony Nakache and Martin Roeske from Google MENA, marks a milestone in empowering Emirati entrepreneurs with cutting-edge digital marketing capabilities.
The pilot programme will select 10 high-potential Emirati SMEs, granting them access to premium Google tools, advertising credits, and expert mentorship. Designed as a proof of concept (POC), the initiative addresses challenges such as limited marketing budgets and digital expertise, enabling businesses to compete globally with minimal capital.
Featuring a tripartite co-funding model, the total investment will be shared equally between Dubai SME, Google, and the participating SMEs. This approach fosters ownership, accountability, and long-term growth. Participants will also gain strategic guidance, creative support, and access to Google’s advertising ecosystem, supported by DET’s marketing experience and partner network.
Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, emphasized the collaboration’s strategic impact:
“Under Dubai’s visionary leadership, SMEs remain the backbone of our economy. Partnering with Google demonstrates how government and private sectors can unite to empower entrepreneurs and strengthen Dubai’s position as a global business hub.”
Martin Roeske, Google MENA’s Director of Government Affairs and Public Policy, added:
“Technology is the great equalizer. Through this collaboration, Emirati entrepreneurs gain access to AI-powered tools, mentorship, and resources that allow them to compete confidently on the world stage.”
The pilot phase begins later this year, with insights driving future digital enablement initiatives aimed at expanding Dubai’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.