Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a significant move towards nurturing future entrepreneurs, Dubai has launched the Young Trader initiative, collaboratively organized by Brand Dubai and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, as part of the #HattaWinter initiative during the Hatta Festival.

The primary goal of this initiative is to cultivate entrepreneurial skills among children, introducing them to the fundamentals of business in a hands-on, engaging environment. By combining learning with fun, Young Trader inspires kids to unleash their creativity, boost their self-confidence, and recognize the importance of commercial involvement from a tender age.

The event featured four child-led business projects from participants aged 8 to 13, showcasing a variety of ideas that highlighted the creativity and innovation of young minds, while granting them an invaluable opportunity to engage with the marketplace directly.

Amina Taher, a representative from the #HattaWinter Initiative Organising Committee, emphasized the programme's aim to empower children to explore their potential early on. She mentioned that Young Trader combines education with entertainment, giving children practical exposure to entrepreneurship in a nurturing community setting.

According to her, by sharing their concepts with visitors, the youngsters enhance their communication skills and self-esteem, gaining a better understanding of how businesses function beyond the classroom walls.

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, which is part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, indicated that this initiative aligns with Dubai SME’s mission to promote entrepreneurship and support the broader objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

He elaborated that Young Trader offers early exposure to key skills such as entrepreneurship, project management, and community engagement, equipping children to transform their ideas into viable enterprises in the future. The initiative reflects Dubai’s enduring commitment to fostering innovation and skill development in its younger population.

The #HattaWinter initiative is being implemented by Brand Dubai, overseen by the Supreme Committee for the Development of Hatta, and in collaboration with several government entities including the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Community Development Authority, Dubai Sports Council, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

Collectively, these strategies highlight Dubai’s dedication to nurturing a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that begins at an early age, aligning with the emirate’s long-term economic ambitions.

#Dubai