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The App Olympics competition, the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy’s app development initiative that launched in October 2023, announced that it has received more than 1,100 applications from around the world for this unique initiative.
The App Olympics competition was launched as part of the Create an App in Dubai initiative announced in March 2023 by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council. The program therefore achieves the goal of transforming the Emirate of Dubai into a leading global digital hub and is in line with the goals set out in the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
The first phase of the competition received more than 1,100 applications from the UAE and 64 other countries. The latter accounted for 31% of all submissions. Designed to strengthen Dubai’s leadership in mobile application development, the App Olympics sent applicants with creative ideas that could potentially disrupt the sector. Most of the ideas focused on educational technology, followed by healthcare, sustainability and logistics. Other areas of interest within the application included financial services, tourism, travel, and F&B services.
Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai, said: “The high level of participation from home and abroad reflects the importance of this initiative as an opportunity for innovators in the app development sector to turn their ideas into digital startups, using the Emirate as a launchpad.” said. Digital Economy Chamber. “The success of the App Olympics further strengthens Dubai’s position as a leading platform for creative thinking and attracting pioneers from around the world. The Dubai Digital Economy Chamber continues its commitment to helping entrepreneurs and businesses realize and accelerate their ideas. “Growing Dubai’s digital economy.”
Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice Chairman, Dubai Digital Economy Chamber. Source: Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy
Afterwards, the first round of applicants went through a rigorous evaluation process, and a total of 247 ideas advanced to the second stage of the competition in January. During this preliminary phase, competitors participated in 90 training courses on topics related to mobile application development, prototyping, and pitching strategies. Participants also benefited from support from industry experts who served as mentors in the program.
A total of 24 participants are currently expected to advance to the semi-final stage in February 2024, after which 12 ideas will be selected as finalists. The final winner of the competition will be announced at an awards ceremony held at the Dubai Future Museum later that month. A panel of judges comprising industry experts from key sectors including banking, venture capital and government representatives will evaluate the final 12 proposals that will compete in four award categories, including Best App of the Year – Advanced and Best. Youth-created apps, the most innovative apps, and social influence.
Each of the four winners will receive a comprehensive services package worth US$150,000, delivered in partnership with an international app development software company. Additionally, each winner will receive support from the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy to execute their idea and receive assistance with licensing and financing processes, as well as assistance in identifying potential partners and customers. .
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