Strategic partners have thrown their weight behind Dubai Future Solutions – Prototypes for Humanity, the initiative unveiled by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The platform was created to unite participants from different countries in a shared quest to develop solutions to global problems.
DIFC Governor Essa Kazim Pledges Continued Support
His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), highlighted more than two decades of pioneering work in human capital, technology, and innovation that has made DIFC the largest innovation ecosystem in the region. He affirmed that DIFC will continue to support the next generation of start-ups and scale-ups through advanced regulation, funding, and enablers for technology and innovation firms — a community that now encompasses over a thousand companies.
Dubai Culture Aligns Initiative with City's Creative Vision
Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, said the initiative fits squarely within the strategic vision championed under Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Badri noted the platform is designed to make Dubai "a melting pot for ideas" — transforming concepts into actionable solutions for society through deeper collaboration between government, business, and educational institutions.
"The initiative provides a distinctive platform for enhancing cooperation and integrating the roles of the public and private sectors," she said.
DAMAC Founder Hussain Sajwani Highlights Dubai's Tech Ambitions
Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Group, expressed pride in contributing to Dubai's ambition to become a leading global hub for creativity and technology. He pointed to the role of artificial intelligence products, improved start-up conditions, and the attraction of world-class talent as central pillars. "We are honoured to be part of the future of Dubai's innovation and technology, and contribute to bolstering its position as a global hub," Sajwani said.
The Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation has pledged AED 100 million to drive innovation and new technological breakthroughs in Dubai and the UAE.
Dubai Future Foundation CEO Stresses Private Sector Role
Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, underscored the initiative's alignment with Dubai's leadership vision to achieve Category A status as an international technology innovation hub. Belhoul emphasised that this advanced phase will focus on attracting top minds and the most impactful ideas to Dubai in partnership with academic institutions and private sector players.
"This advanced phase of the initiative will open new horizons for attracting top minds and the most innovative and impactful ideas to Dubai," Belhoul said, specifically citing the importance of the Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation partnership.
Prototypes for Humanity Director Praises Dubai's Innovation Culture
Tadeu Baldani Caravieri, Director of Prototypes for Humanity, welcomed the collaboration with Dubai Future Solutions and praised the creative and innovation culture that Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has nurtured in Dubai.
"We are delighted to be partnering with Dubai Future Solutions and look forward to supporting their commitment towards innovations for a better world," Caravieri said. He also thanked Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for her backing of the Prototypes for Humanity programme and its entry into Dubai's vibrant innovation ecosystem.
The 2024 programme received 2,700 applications from more than 800 universities globally, with 100 standout projects selected to be showcased at AREA 2071, Emirates Towers Boulevard.
