UAE’s NextGen FDI Programme Attracts Global Tech Giants
The United Arab Emirates is reinforcing its global reputation as a leading destination for technology, innovation, and investment, with particular emphasis on future-defining sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and climate technology.
Launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Economy, the UAE’s “NextGen FDI” initiative has swiftly positioned the country as a magnet for cutting-edge international businesses. To date, the programme has successfully attracted more than 90 prominent global companies, including well-known tech leaders like Coinbase, Qualcomm, Ripple, and XPENG. These companies are helping to shape the future of industries such as blockchain, robotics, biotechnology, smart mobility, and climate-tech — all of which are expected to be significant pillars of the global economy in the coming years.
Driving investment and innovation through strategic partnerships
In a statement to Emirates News Agency (WAM), Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, outlined the nation’s ambitious strategy to further expand its international technology footprint. He highlighted the country’s target to attract approximately 300 global tech enterprises, alongside foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows of nearly $500 million.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi stressed that the UAE remains firmly committed to building an ecosystem designed to support and nurture innovative companies. He noted that the country’s focus is to provide an investor-friendly environment that encourages international businesses to establish and scale operations, especially those aligning with the UAE’s long-term innovation and growth strategies.
Further cementing this commitment, the Ministry of Economy recently announced the addition of Schneider Electric as a strategic partner to the NextGen FDI programme. As a global leader in energy management and automation, Schneider Electric will play a pivotal role in supporting start-ups focused on sustainability and climate-tech. The partnership will see Schneider Electric assist in attracting new businesses to the UAE, mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, and providing both go-to-market support and incubation services for its international portfolio companies.
As the UAE continues to strengthen its position at the forefront of global technological development, initiatives like NextGen FDI remain central to shaping the country’s future as an innovation powerhouse.
