The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, in partnership with ADGM Academy, has launched the “Ruwad Al Ain Bootcamp”, a five-day programme designed to empower Emirati entrepreneurs and accelerate innovation across strategic sectors in Al Ain. The bootcamp began on 24 November 2025 at MZN Hub Al Ain, bringing together UAE Nationals with ambition, early-stage ideas, and a shared commitment to building future-ready ventures.
The initiative represents a significant milestone in advancing the UAE’s entrepreneurship landscape, combining government support, academic excellence, and industry partnerships to enable new opportunities for local innovators. The programme aligns with the UAE’s broader vision to foster a knowledge-based, diversified, and competitive economy.
Focus on High-Growth Sectors
The bootcamp targets key economic sectors for Al Ain, including agriculture and AgriTech, light manufacturing, tourism, culture and heritage, cybersecurity, AI, and applied technologies.
Over five intensive days, participants will take part in hands-on workshops, tailored mentorship, and sector-specific challenges designed to strengthen their business models and accelerate their entrepreneurial journey.
Participants will gain practical experience in business modelling, team building, prototyping, and pitching, culminating in a Demo Day where they will present their solutions to a panel of experts. The top three teams will receive AED 50,000 in milestone-based pre-seed funding, along with mentorship, in-kind support, and access to MZN Hub’s incubation facilities. All entrepreneurs completing the programme will be awarded a certificate of participation.
Strategic Support for National Talent
H.E. Khalifa Saeed Al Kuwaiti, Executive Director of the Entrepreneurship Sector at the Khalifa Fund, highlighted the programme’s role in nurturing Emirati innovators:
“Al Ain is a city with deep roots and immense potential. Through Ruwad Al Ain Bootcamp, we are proud to support Emirati entrepreneurs by providing mentorship, guidance, and access to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. We aim to empower homegrown talent to transform their ideas into impactful ventures and drive sustainable growth in Abu Dhabi’s knowledge-based economy.”
Ali Al Mehairi, Senior Executive Director of Business Enablement at ADGM Academy and Research Centre, emphasized the academy’s commitment to talent development, adding:
“The Ruwad Al Ain Bootcamp reflects ADGM Academy’s ongoing investment in human capital and innovation. By empowering Emiratis with practical tools, mentorship, and access to funding, we are helping transform ideas into impactful ventures that support the nation’s long-term vision.”
A Launchpad for Future Leaders
More than a training initiative, the Ruwad Al Ain Bootcamp aims to serve as a launchpad for the next generation of Emirati entrepreneurial leaders, equipping them with the skills, networks, and resources required to turn ideas into sustainable businesses and contribute to the UAE’s long-term economic transformation.
UAE Nationals in Al Ain interested in launching or scaling their business ideas are encouraged to apply and join the programme.
To explore the full details and learn more on this story, Click Here.
————
Disclaimer: The content of the above information is sourced (or provided), in entirety or in parts from an external source and the content may or may not be edited. The Wealth Today shall not be held liable for damages arising out of any action taken with respect to the use or consumption of information or service published above or anywhere else on the website. This website does not guarantee the accuracy, views, opinions, or any promises expressed in the above news. If you find any errors or discrepancies in the above information, you can write to us at editor@thewealth.today.