MBRIF and Dubai Future District Fund partner to boost UAE startups

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF), an initiative of the UAE Ministry of Finance, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Dubai Future District Fund (DFDF) to bolster the nation's startup ecosystem.

The partnership establishes a two-way referral system designed to connect high-growth-potential startups with expanded funding and support. Under the agreement, MBRIF members will be reviewed for potential introductions to DFDF’s network of fund managers to facilitate access to institutional capital during later growth stages. Conversely, eligible DFDF portfolio companies will be referred to MBRIF to access federal assistance channels, support tools, and specialized programs.

This collaboration aims to bridge federal and Dubai-level innovation ecosystems, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision. Fatima Yousif Alnaqbi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Support Services Sector at the Ministry of Finance, stated that the partnership seeks to create an environment where innovative businesses can scale and contribute to long-term economic priorities. The agreement notes that introductions to the DFDF network do not constitute a formal investment commitment.