Movement is inevitable. As entrepreneurs and innovators, we constantly navigate new opportunities, evolving projects, and shifting personal circumstances. Yet, our systems often treat this natural flux as an exception, forcing a ‘reset’ with every change of location or project.
hub71
Movement is inevitable. As entrepreneurs and innovators, we constantly navigate new opportunities, evolving projects, and shifting personal circumstances. Yet, our systems often treat this natural flux as an exception, forcing a ‘reset’ with every change of location or project. At Hotdesk, we believe this friction is unnecessary. The real challenge isn’t just finding a place to work; it’s about maintaining continuity, a sense of belonging, and consistent access to the infrastructure that supports our endeavors, regardless of our physical coordinates. This is the principle that drives our approach to workspace solutions and informs our understanding of ecosystems like Hub71, designed to foster innovation and growth.
Key Takeaways
The application process for Hub71 should be approached as a strategic move that preserves your operational continuity, not as a fresh start that resets your momentum.
Hub71’s infrastructure is designed to reduce the friction of relocation, so your application should highlight how your venture aligns with their support for seamless transitions.
A strong application demonstrates that you understand movement as a constant, and that your business is built to thrive across different locations without losing its core identity.
Prepare your documentation to show how you will maintain your team’s sense of belonging and access to resources while benefiting from Hub71’s ecosystem.
Think of the playbook as a tool to navigate the application with clarity, ensuring every answer reflects your commitment to continuity and growth.
Hub71: Abu Dhabi’s Tech Ecosystem and What It Offers Startups
Hub71 stands as a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Launched by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and Mubadala Investment Company, its core mission is to cultivate a dynamic ecosystem that attracts, nurtures, and scales technology startups. It’s designed not merely as a physical space, but as a comprehensive platform offering startups the resources, network, and support they need to thrive in a competitive global market. The vision extends beyond incubation; it’s about creating a sustainable engine for economic diversification and technological advancement within the emirate and beyond. This initiative reflects a strategic commitment to fostering a future-forward economy driven by cutting-edge ideas and bold entrepreneurial spirit.
The program’s focus is strategically aligned with key global growth sectors through its Hub71+ verticals. These include Digital Assets, where innovation in blockchain and decentralized technologies is encouraged; ClimateTech, addressing urgent environmental challenges with sustainable solutions; Artificial Intelligence (AI), pushing the boundaries of machine learning and its applications; and Life Sciences, fostering advancements in healthcare and biotechnology. By concentrating on these high-impact areas, Hub71 aims to position Abu Dhabi at the forefront of technological development. Startups operating within these verticals gain access to specialized mentorship, targeted funding opportunities, and a curated network of industry experts and investors, creating an environment ripe for groundbreaking discoveries and commercial success.
For startups joining the Hub71 ecosystem, the incentives are substantial and designed to remove common barriers to growth. The program offers equity-free support, meaning startups retain full ownership of their company. This support can include direct grants and high-performance top-ups of up to AED 250,000, a significant boost for early-stage companies. Beyond financial aid, Hub71 provides access to a comprehensive network of over 200 partners, including corporate entities, government agencies, and venture capital firms, facilitating important connections for business development and investment. This comprehensive package aims to accelerate startup journeys, enabling them to scale rapidly and achieve their full potential within a supportive and resource-rich environment. As of recent reports, the Hub71 ecosystem has already seen its startups surpass $2.7 billion in funding, underscoring the tangible impact of its support structures.
Where Is Hub71 Located? Workspace Options and the Physical Experience
Hub71 is strategically situated on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, a prime location within the emirate’s central business district, offering excellent flexible workspace solutions in Abu Dhabi. Specifically, it is hosted within the WeWork x Hub71 community at Al Khatem Tower, Abu Dhabi Global Market Square. This central position places startups at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s financial and commercial activity, offering proximity to major corporations, government entities, and essential amenities. The area is well-connected, making it accessible for employees, partners, and investors alike. Being on Al Maryah Island means startups are integrated into a sophisticated urban environment designed for business and innovation, fostering a professional atmosphere conducive to growth and networking opportunities.
The workspace experience at Hub71 is delivered through a partnership with WeWork, providing members with access to a range of flexible office solutions. This includes coworking spaces, hot desks, and private offices, catering to the diverse needs of startups at different stages of development. Whether a team requires a dedicated collaborative area or the flexibility of hot desking, the WeWork x Hub71 floor offers well-equipped environments. Members benefit from a professionally managed workspace that handles the day-to-day operational aspects, allowing founders and their teams to concentrate fully on building their businesses. This collaborative setup is designed to foster a sense of shared purpose and community among resident startups.
The physical space at Hub71, within the WeWork facility, is crafted to support day-to-day work and foster productivity. Beyond just desks and chairs, the environment is designed to encourage interaction and serendipitous encounters that can lead to valuable collaborations. Access to amenities such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, printing facilities, and common areas helps streamline operations. The presence of a dedicated community team further ensures that startups receive the support needed to navigate their workspace needs. This integrated approach to workspace provision means that startups can focus on innovation and execution, confident that their physical environment is a reliable foundation for their operations, contributing to a seamless and productive work experience.
How to Join Hub71: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Access Program
The Access Program is the primary pathway for startups to enter the ecosystem. It is designed for early-stage technology companies with a clear value proposition and a desire to scale from Abu Dhabi. The program runs for 12 months, with the next cohort (Cohort 18) starting in February 2027. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but key deadlines align with each cohort start. Before you begin, confirm your startup meets the core eligibility criteria: you must be a technology-focused company with a scalable business model, have a minimum viable product or demonstrated traction, and be willing to relocate or establish a presence in Abu Dhabi. The program is open to founders from any country, and previous cohorts have drawn startups from 112 nations.
Is Your Startup Ready for Hub71? A Quick Eligibility Checklist
Technology-driven product or service (aligned with Hub71+ verticals preferred).
At least a prototype or initial revenue proof of concept.
Founding team committed to operating from Abu Dhabi for the program duration.
Company registered or in the process of registration (ADGM jurisdiction recommended).
Willingness to participate in cohort activities, mentorship, and investor meetings.
The Application Process and Key Deadlines
Applying to the Access Program is a structured process. Begin by visiting the official application page. The form requires detailed information about your startup: team background, product description, market opportunity, current traction, and funding status. Expect to provide a pitch deck and financial projections. After submission, the Hub71 team reviews applications and shortlists candidates for interviews. Successful applicants receive an offer to join the cohort. Key deadlines for Cohort 18 will be announced on the Hub71 LinkedIn page and website around mid-2026. It is wise to monitor both channels and prepare your materials ahead of time. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks from submission to final decision.
What Happens After Acceptance: Cohort Lifecycle and Support
Once accepted, your startup enters a 12-month structured cohort. The lifecycle begins with an onboarding week where you meet the Hub71 team, fellow founders, and partners. Throughout the program, you gain access to equity-free incentives, including grants and potential top-ups of up to AED 250,000 for high performance. Weekly workshops, mentorship from industry leaders (including partners like Techstars and Google for Startups), and networking events are built into the schedule. You also receive dedicated workspace at the WeWork x Hub71 floor on Al Maryah Island. At the end of the cohort, startups present progress to investors and corporate partners, opening doors to additional funding and pilot opportunities. Ongoing support continues through alumni networks and partnership access even after graduation.
Beyond the Program: How Hub71 Startups Can Find Flexible Workspace Across Abu Dhabi
The WeWork x Hub71 floor is an excellent home base, but startup needs evolve. Your team may outgrow the allocated desks, require client-ready meeting rooms outside the main floor, or need a satellite location closer to a specific partner or customer, offering great flexible workspace options. Additionally, during cohort activities or after graduation, flexibility becomes essential. Having options beyond the designated space ensures your team can adapt without disruption. This is where the broader workspace ecosystem comes into play.
When You Need Space Beyond the WeWork Hub71 Floor
Perhaps you are hosting a visiting investor and need a private office for confidentiality. Or your development team needs a quiet, distraction-free zone for a sprint while your sales team works from the collaborative floor. Meeting rooms may be fully booked on the Hub71 floor on short notice. In these situations, having access to alternate workspaces across Abu Dhabi becomes a practical advantage. The city offers numerous coworking spaces, business centers, and private offices that can be booked on demand, often with flexible terms suited to startup cash flow.
Booking Hot Desks, Meeting Rooms, and Private Offices on Demand
Platforms like Hotdesk enable Hub71 members to book workspace instantly across a network of locations in Abu Dhabi and beyond. Instead of searching across multiple sites or dealing with long-term leases, you can reserve a hot desk for a day, a meeting room for an hour, or a private office for a week. This on-demand approach matches the unpredictable rhythm of startup life. You pay only for what you use, no fixed overhead. All bookings are managed through a single dashboard, so you can maintain continuity without administrative burden.
How Hotdesk Connects Hub71 Members to a Global Network of Workspaces
Hotdesk complements the Hub71 experience by extending access to a curated global network of workspaces. Whether you need a temporary office in Dubai for a client meeting, a coworking desk in Cairo for a remote team member, or a meeting room in London during a business trip, the platform provides seamless, one-click booking. For Hub71 members, this means your workspace continuum is not limited to Al Maryah Island. You can keep your team productive and connected wherever your entrepreneurial journey takes you. The integration is natural: use Hub71 as your anchor and Hotdesk as your flexible extension, without losing the familiarity and support of a consistent workspace ecosystem.
Choosing the Right UAE Startup Ecosystem for Your Venture
The United Arab Emirates offers a dynamic and growing network of startup hubs across the UAE, each with unique strengths. For founders, understanding these differences is key to selecting an environment that best supports their specific industry, stage, and growth objectives. While Hub71 in Abu Dhabi provides a focused approach with significant equity-free support and access to key verticals, other locations across the UAE present different opportunities. Evaluating these options requires a clear understanding of what each ecosystem prioritizes and what it offers in terms of tangible benefits and community.
Understanding Different UAE Startup Hubs and Their Focus
When considering a startup ecosystem, it’s helpful to categorize them by their primary focus and geographical advantage. For instance, Abu Dhabi’s Hub71 cultivates innovation within specific high-growth verticals like AI, ClimateTech, and Digital Assets, backed by substantial government incentives. In contrast, Dubai hosts established technology parks such as Dubai Internet City and Dubai Silicon Oasis, which offer extensive infrastructure and cater to a broader range of tech companies, often with a focus on IT services and hardware. The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) area, while home to Hub71, also functions as a financial free zone, attracting fintech and regulated digital asset companies with its specialized legal and regulatory framework.
Ecosystem Characteristics Comparison
Key Strengths to Consider
Specialized Verticals: Focus on specific high-growth sectors (e.g., AI, ClimateTech, Digital Assets) can provide targeted support and industry-specific networks.
Equity-Free Incentives: Programs offering grants and financial support without taking equity can be highly beneficial for early-stage startups.
Regulatory Environment: Access to specific free zones or financial districts may offer tailored legal frameworks and licenses advantageous for certain industries.
Infrastructure & Connectivity: Established tech parks often provide excellent physical infrastructure, connectivity, and a large existing community of tech companies.
Global Access: Proximity to international airports and business centers facilitates global expansion and investor relations.
Potential Challenges
Program Specificity: Highly specialized programs may not suit startups outside their designated verticals.
Competition for Resources: Larger, more established hubs might have higher competition for limited resources or investor attention.
Cost of Operations: Some prime locations or established free zones can come with higher operational costs compared to more nascent hubs.
Bureaucracy: Navigating different regulatory bodies and application processes across various emirates can be complex.
Community Fragmentation: In broader hubs, identifying and connecting with the most relevant peers or mentors might require more proactive effort.
Key Factors: Incentives, Industry Focus, and Physical Space
When evaluating an ecosystem, founders should prioritize three core elements: incentives, industry focus, and the physical workspace. Incentives can range from equity-free grants and top-ups, like those offered by Hub71 (up to AED 250,000), to tax benefits or subsidized operational costs. The industry focus is paramount; a startup in AI will benefit more from an ecosystem that actively supports AI innovation, connecting it with relevant mentors and investors, than one in a general tech park. Physical space considerations include the availability and flexibility of coworking areas, private offices, and meeting rooms. For example, a partnership like WeWork x Hub71 provides a professional, integrated workspace designed for collaboration and productivity, which is a significant draw for many early-stage companies.
To choose the right ecosystem, begin by assessing your startup’s current stage and future aspirations. Are you an early-stage venture needing significant seed funding and mentorship, or a growth-stage company looking for market access? Consider your industry vertical: does the ecosystem specialize in areas relevant to your technology or service? For instance, if your focus is on regulated financial services, ADGM might offer a distinct advantage. Then, evaluate the incentive structures. Equity-free programs are often preferred by founders who wish to retain maximum ownership. Finally, think about the physical environment and community. Does the hub foster the kind of collaboration and networking that aligns with your team’s working style? By systematically addressing these points, founders can make an informed decision that positions their venture for sustained success within the UAE’s supportive entrepreneurial climate.
Hub71 operates as a comprehensive innovation ecosystem that attracts, nurtures, and scales technology startups across Abu Dhabi. The program removes operational friction by providing equity free support, direct grants, and access to a vast network of corporate partners. This structured environment gives founders the continuity they need to focus entirely on building sustainable ventures.
Is Hub71 government owned?
Hub71 is a publicly backed initiative launched by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Mubadala Investment Company. This strategic partnership ensures the program operates with strong institutional backing while maintaining a flexible approach to startup development. The structure allows resident companies to access substantial resources without sacrificing independent ownership.
Who is the CEO of Hub71?
Hub71 operates under the strategic direction of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Mubadala Investment Company rather than a single chief executive. Leadership decisions and program oversight are managed through these established institutional frameworks. This collaborative governance model ensures consistent alignment with Abu Dhabi broader economic goals while keeping decision making efficient.
What kind of companies join Hub71?
Hub71 welcomes technology focused startups that align with its four primary verticals: Digital Assets, ClimateTech, Artificial Intelligence, and Life Sciences. The program actively seeks early stage and growth stage ventures ready to tackle global challenges through innovative solutions. Founders who prioritize scalable technology and sustainable business models find the most success within this community.
How much financial support does Hub71 offer?
Hub71 provides equity free support that includes direct grants and high performance top ups reaching AED 250,000. This financial assistance allows early stage companies to retain full ownership while accelerating product development and market entry. The program also connects founders with venture capital firms and corporate partners for additional investment opportunities.
What workspace solutions are available at Hub71?
Hub71 delivers flexible office environments through a partnership with WeWork at the Al Khatem Tower on Al Maryah Island. This infrastructure removes daily operational friction so founders can maintain continuity while scaling their ventures. Members can choose from dedicated coworking spaces, hot desks, and private offices tailored to different team sizes.
Mohamed Khaled is the Founder and CEO of Hotdesk, the on-demand workspace platform providing access to coworking spaces and flexible offices across more than 120 countries.
He spent nearly a decade at PwC before moving into financial leadership at SWVL, where he led the company’s $1.5 billion Nasdaq listing, the first Unicorn from thr Middle East to go public in the United States.
A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Mohamed built Hotdesk from a side project into a global platform, leading a team of more than 50 and expanding into international markets, including the acquisition of Spain-based coworking marketplace YADO.
Also being Co-founder and President of DESK Token, the world’s first asset backed property investment and utility hybrid token, Mohammed is focused on building infrastructure that unlocks underutilized assets – from meeting rooms to private offices and full on buildings – while creating space for the future of work.
