The Future 100 initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Economy and the Office of Government Development and the Future, has unveiled the Future 100 – 2024 list. This list highlights 100 of the most promising startups and scaleups based in the UAE that significantly contribute to the competitiveness of the country’s future economy. The announcement was made during the fourth edition of Investopia held in Abu Dhabi on February 26-27, 2025.

The event featured notable attendees, including His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of Investopia, Her Excellency Alia bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, and Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future. The Future 100 – List 2024 report, produced in partnership with Entrepreneur Middle East, is available for download from the Future 100 website.

In his remarks, H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri emphasized the UAE’s progress in diversifying its economy into new sectors. He noted that Investopia has a forward-looking vision to foster innovative startups and scaleup businesses, encouraging them to leverage modern technology across vital economic sectors. He stated, “The Future100 companies initiative for the second year in a row confirms our national effort to enhance the competitiveness of the entrepreneurial environment in the country.”

H.E. Al Marri further expressed a commitment to providing national talents and startups with the opportunities they need to develop impactful projects. Meanwhile, H.E. Alia Al Mazrouei highlighted the initiative’s role in supporting the UAE’s vision for a dynamic and competitive economy. She noted an 11% increase in the number of applications received for the Future 100 compared to 2023, with a focus on financial technology, sustainability, and creative industries.

H.E. Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi elaborated on the UAE’s integrated approach to shaping the future, which includes fostering flexibility and readiness across various sectors. She described the Future 100 initiative as a manifestation of the leadership’s vision, aimed at stimulating the development of future sectors and enhancing the UAE’s attractiveness as a hub for startups. Since its inception in 2023, the initiative has attracted startups across numerous sectors, including space, cybersecurity, and smart mobility.