DET x Amazon Accelerator: How will DET and Amazon UAE’s launch boost growth for Dubai SMEs?

• The ‘DET x Amazon Accelerator’ showcases Dubai’s forward-thinking approach to fostering innovation in the UAE.
• The collaboration accelerates the broader digital transformation in the UAE.
• The Accelerator program focuses on key elements aimed at assisting Dubai SMEs, facilitating market entry in the UAE, and driving sustainable growth.

Doing business in the UAE has become increasingly advantageous for locals and international entrepreneurs due to the country’s appealing digital ecosystem. As the UAE adopts digital transformation, Dubai is actively advancing its resources and capabilities to become the world’s centre for entrepreneurial innovation. The recent partnership between the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Amazon UAE to launch the ‘DET x Amazon Accelerator’ is a clear indication of this. This capacity-building initiative is envisioned to revolutionise the field for Dubai SMEs, particularly those aiming for efficient market entry in the UAE.

The key focus of DET and Amazon’s partnership

The ‘DET x Amazon Accelerator’ is part of the Dubai Traders strategy, which falls under the comprehensive Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) — developed to redefine the city’s economic diversification efforts and enhance international trade capabilities. The strategy relies on close collaboration with leading B2C, B2B, and specialised digital solutions providers in the private sector. Additionally, it focuses on empowering Dubai SMEs to offer incentives and support mechanisms for Dubai SMEs through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. 

Having a complete grasp of the need to tap into the capabilities of the rise of e-commerce and digital transformation in the UAE, the DET formed an alliance with Amazon UAE. In particular, the newly launched accelerator program will fuel the next growth phase for Dubai SMEs by offering mentorship, necessary tools, and support to help them compete in a digitally-driven economy. It will focus on online retail growth, streamlining supply chains, and improving digital operations.

As per the partnership announcement, the accelerator program is built around these core pillars:

Digital upskilling

Amazon UAE will equip businesses with digital skills to successfully establish a presence on Amazon.ae through a series of workshops and training sessions they are organising.

Tailored expertise

SMEs receive personalised guidance from Amazon experts to optimise growth, from account setup to advanced features like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and Amazon Advertising.

Enhanced visibility digitally

Dubai SMEs will benefit from increased digital exposure through Amazon UAE’s ‘Shop Local’ shopfront, which is designed to prioritise local sellers and improve their visibility during peak sales events.

Marketing support

Amazon will offer dedicated advertising credits to help businesses launch impactful marketing campaigns and expand their customer reach.

Global reach

It will provide SMEs with access to Amazon’s vast multinational marketplace.

A boost for SMEs doing business in the UAE

The DET x Amazon Accelerator also seeks to capitalise on Amazon UAE’s vast digital infrastructure and global marketplace to support local SMEs. It is worth noting that Dubai’s DET has recently partnered with Noon, the region’s Arabic-first e-commerce platform. The aim was to offer a range of services such as expedited onboarding, account management, and noon Minutes shelf space. Essentially, the recently forged collaboration between Amazon UAE and DET will enhance operations, improve online visibility, and establish a competitive edge for Dubai SMEs and entrepreneurs seeking seamless market entry in the UAE.