Dubai has been constantly working on the sheer potential to diversify its economy and build an entrepreneurial society. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has, on Wednesday, 19 May 2021, launched the "Dubai Next" platform for crowd-funding SMEs which will be the world's first crowd-funding portal for small and medium enterprises. Reportedly, this will also be an opportunity for a range of investors from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, the Middle East, Europe and Asia to power the passions of young entrepreneurs.

Dubai has launched the platform to enable start-ups and entrepreneurs, to gain access to funding, mentorship, and connections. The Dubai Next platform is a digital hub for entrepreneurs that supports their business ideas with guidance on how they can become successful, connecting them with investors who are keen to see more innovative businesses set up in Dubai.

The platform offers a wide range of services, including financing and mentoring for innovative youth-led start-ups, attempts to create a conducive work environment and assist entrepreneurs to compete in the local market and expand. He also appreciated the SME Development Programme and said that SMEs are a key pillar in the UAE economy. This could also assist in facilitating an investor-to-entrepreneur matching program that connects start-ups with investors who are keen to see more innovative businesses set up in Dubai.

“The Dubai Next Platform is the epitome of empowerment. This initiative by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is an excellent and sure-fire approach to help enable SMEs to grow and expand with all the support they require. It fosters ambition and sustainable development, embodying the true essence of Dubai; and will help our economy successfully keep pace with the global market” said Dubai lawyer, Mr. Sunil Ambalavelil.