October 29, 2026

New Economy Academy and DIB Unveil Financial Literacy Programme for Entrepreneurs

Dubai:The New Economy Academy, in collaboration with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), has launched the Financial Literacy Programme aimed at providing business owners with essential financial knowledge, digital tools, and resource management skills necessary for business growth and sustainability.

According to Wam, the initiative aligns with the UAE National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2026-2030, which promotes equitable access and responsible use of financial services to enhance financial resilience and wellbeing for both individuals and businesses.

The programme is part of 'The Emirates The Startup Capital of the World' national campaign, initiated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to position the UAE as a leading global hub for entrepreneurship. It aims to train over 500 entrepreneurs in two cohorts, focusing on financial management principles, modern AI tools, and operational sustainability, as part of a broader Entrepreneurship Programme intended to train 10,000 Emiratis over five years.

A cooperation agreement between the New Economy Academy and DIB, signed by Dr. Laila Faridoon, CEO of the New Economy Academy, and Saoud AlJassem, Chief of Commercial Banking at DIB, marked the formal launch of this programme in Dubai. The initiative seeks to empower entrepreneurs to make informed investment decisions and optimize their business operations, thus boosting the competitiveness and sustainability of the SME sector.

Dr. Laila Faridoon emphasized that the strategic partnership with DIB is rooted in a shared vision to enhance national enterprise efficiency, particularly within the SME sector, which is pivotal to the UAE's economy. Saoud AlJassem highlighted DIB's dedication to supporting the SME sector through financial education, contributing to a resilient and competitive business environment.

The programme encompasses four core pillars financial planning, financial behaviours, AI for business growth, and investment and future planning. Each pillar is designed to equip participants with the necessary skills to manage finances effectively, optimize resources, leverage AI tools for growth, and make strategic investment decisions.