Zoho has partnered with Dart to support global startups relocating to Dubai by offering $500 in Zoho credits, access to 55+ business apps, and hands-on training. The initiative focuses on empowering founders with scalable tech and local expertise, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading innovation hub in the Middle East.
Unlike typical accelerator programs that focus heavily on funding, this new initiative emphasizes foundational technology, education, and infrastructure—the critical components of long-term growth. At the heart of the program is the introduction of Zoho’s enterprise-grade tools and services, which will be made available to Dart’s network of entrepreneurs through exclusive credits, training, and advisory sessions.
“Our goal is to equip founders with the digital backbone they need to thrive in this region,” said Premanand Velumani, Associate Director for Strategic Alliances, MEA at Zoho. “Dubai is not just a launchpad for startups anymore. It’s a competitive ecosystem where companies need scalable, secure, and affordable technology from day one. That’s what we’re bringing to the table.”
As part of the collaboration, Dart community members will gain access to $500 worth of credits for Zoho’s suite of more than 55 business applications, covering everything from CRM and HR to finance, analytics, and collaboration tools. Additionally, Zoho experts will lead hands-on workshops tailored to the UAE business landscape, including topics such as data localization, GDPR compliance, and AI-enabled decision-making.
Jack Mouzer, Chief Operating Officer at Dart, emphasized the importance of practical tools over theoretical guidance. “Our clients are builders. They don’t need more advice—they need systems that work from day one. Zoho’s ecosystem is tried, tested, and highly adaptable, which makes it a perfect fit for businesses moving into a fast-paced market like Dubai.”
The partnership also feeds into Zoho’s larger global mission of “Transnational Localism,” a philosophy that encourages building local economies while operating as a global enterprise. This approach is particularly relevant in the UAE, where a growing number of startups are serving customers across the Gulf, Asia, and Africa from a Dubai base.
Industry analysts see the partnership as a reflection of a larger shift in the region—from oil and real estate to innovation and intellectual capital. As governments double down on digital transformation, public-private collaborations like this one are likely to become more common.
“For startups, this isn’t just a partnership,” said Velumani. “It’s a signal that Dubai is serious about building a world-class startup ecosystem—not just through investment, but through real, hands-on support.”
As Dubai continues to rise as a global tech destination, initiatives like this could play a pivotal role in shaping the next wave of globally successful businesses from the heart of the UAE.
