Emirati Aluminum Firm Concludes 'Ramp-Up' Accelerator for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Emirates Global Aluminium just wrapped up the third season of its "Ramp-Up" startup program, marking three years of government-backed efforts to build the UAE's entrepreneurship ecosystem. The program connects early-stage companies with global experts and intensive training, part of a broader push to diversify the UAE's economy beyond oil.

The program launched in 2022 with backing from the UAE's Ministry of Economy and Tourism. It focuses on helping startups grow through mentorship sessions and training courses led by international business experts. The goal is pretty straightforward: create more successful local businesses that can contribute to long-term economic growth.

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE's Minister of Economy and Tourism, said the country sees entrepreneurs and startup founders as key building blocks for a future economy based on knowledge, innovation, and competition. This fits into the UAE's wider strategy to become less dependent on oil revenues and more focused on technology and services.

The timing matters for the region's startup scene. Gulf countries are competing to attract entrepreneurs and tech companies, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE leading the charge through various government programs and funding initiatives. The UAE has been particularly active in creating business-friendly policies and tax incentives to draw international talent.

For Emirates Global Aluminium, supporting startups makes business sense too. The company's CEO, Abdulnasser bin Kalban, said the program aligns with the country's vision for innovation and entrepreneurship. Large established companies often benefit from startup partnerships, gaining access to new technologies and fresh approaches to old problems.

The program represents part of a larger trend across the Middle East, where governments are investing heavily in startup ecosystems. These initiatives typically combine training, funding, and regulatory support to help new businesses get off the ground and scale up quickly.