Dubai: It is the year 2021. The pavilions have been built, a part of the city sectioned off and imagine Expo 2020 Dubai has kicked off. Six months on, once the global fair is over, what happens to all the grand infrastructure in place? The answer lies in District 2020, billed as a city of the future.
What is District 2020?
District 2020 is the city created by retaining 80 per cent of the Expo 2020 Dubai environment and transforming it into a tech-driven sustainable way of urban community living. Post event, the transformation will include residential areas, green spaces, co-working spots and smart mobility.
A smart city for all
District 2020 is aiming for a sustainable way of living using smart infrastructure.
District 2020 will be working with several entities to incorporate advanced technology and innovation to ensure seamless functioning of businesses and residential living. These include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), 5G, Robotics, Big Data and Blockchain.
Global business hub
Dubai aims to provide opportunities to several businesses and start-ups alike with programmes such as Scale2Dubai. District 2020's anchor tenants include Siemens, Terminus Group and DP World.
The Scale2Dubai Programme
Scale2Dubai, which will be based in District 2020, is a global entrepreneurship programme that will enable several start-ups and businesses to scale up in Dubai by accessing new markets. This programme will seek collaboration and ideas from local and global organisations, Fortune 500 companies, government organisations and academia.
Should I move my business to District 2020?
Businesses based out of District 2020 will have a number of benefits such as:
- A two-year visa for start-ups and small businesses, depending on company size.
- Two years of free work space along with subsidised urban living (subject to availability).
- A community lifestyle with room for growth and innovation.
- Service providers will have access to special rates while being part of an equity-free programme.
How can I register my business?
The Scale2Dubai programme is currently accepting expressions of interest from local, regional and international start-ups through the District 2020 website.
The application and short-listing process for Scale2Dubai will open in September 2021, with successful applicants announced during the six months of Expo 2020 Dubai. Those chosen to be part of the programme will be able to move into their workspaces at District 2020 shortly after Expo 2020 closes, when District 2020 opens by October 2022.
Who are the stakeholders in the Scale2Dubai programme?
Scale2Dubai has partnered with local and global entities including Dubai SME and Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund.
-The writer is an intern with Gulf News.
