The new initiative spotlights homegrown brands led by young Emirati entrepreneurs, reflecting du's continued commitment to youth empowerment and innovation
Dubai, UAE, 14 August 2026: In celebration of International Youth Day on 12 August, du's Youth Council has launched Emirati Entrepreneur Month, to shine spotlight on young Emirati founders turning bold ideas into thriving businesses, embodying the ambition, innovation and exceptional execution that define the "Dubai-it" spirit.
Dubai-it, a leadership initiative and action-oriented philosophy launched in June 2026 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, turns the city's fast-paced work ethic into a verb meaning to achieve extraordinary things with excellence in record time.
Through Emirati Entrepreneur Month, du, the leading telecom and digital services provider, is bringing this philosophy to life showcasing three UAE-founded businesses: HOOP, a homegrown coffee and snacks concept; House of Favola, a fragrance and artisinal ice cream brand; and Telo, an emerging sportswear label. Each founder's journey is different, but all reflect the same innovation, resilience, creativity and drive to execute that is helping shape Dubai's future economy.
Through authentic, first-person stories shared across du's platforms, the campaign invites employees, aspiring entrepreneurs, youth council members and the wider UAE community to see what it really takes to move from idea to impact. Throughout Emirati Entrepreneur Month, entrepreneurs will share their experiences through du's social media channels, with special events also taking place at du's Headquarters.
As part of International Youth Day celebrations, du's Youth Council also collaborated with Maharat to deliver a hands-on AI workshop focused on empowering and upskilling youth. Delivered by an Emirati expert, the session introduced participants to real-world applications of AI, offering them the opportunity to learn through execution. The workshop aimed at strengthening future-ready digital skills among young Emiratis by encouraging them to explore and engage with emerging technologies, supporting the broader goal of equipping the next generation with skills required to shape the future.
The initiatives reflect du's ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and its support for the UAE's local entrepreneurial ecosystem, aligned with Dubai's vision of always being among the world's best cities to live, work and innovate. By platforming Emirati-owned businesses, du aims to encourage the wider community to discover and support local talent, and to inspire more young Emiratis to transform their ideas into successful ventures.