Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) hosted the second edition of the Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Forum, a significant event aimed at nurturing Dubai’s creative and cultural industries. Held from 11 to 13 February 2025, the forum attracted over 700 entrepreneurs and creatives, offering a range of keynote sessions, panel discussions, and mentorship opportunities. In addition, participants engaged in workshops and networking activities designed to help them turn ideas into businesses and expand their entrepreneurial ventures.
Al Quoz: Showcasing Entrepreneurial Excellence and Growth
Furthermore, the forum featured six exceptional startups selected to pitch their concepts to a prestigious jury. The panel included renowned figures such as Hashem Montasser, Founder and CEO of The Lighthouse Group, Mohammed Kazim, Co-founder of Tamashee, and Genny Ghanimeh, Founder and CEO of Mind Cloud Tribe. Judges evaluated each pitch based on creativity, impact, and alignment with Dubai’s evolving cultural vision.
After thoughtful deliberation, three standout winners were chosen. First, Maysoon Al Shamsi, the founder of Creams Botanics, secured first place with her sustainable wellness brand inspired by the Emirati landscape. She shared, “The forum provided invaluable connections and guidance, enabling us to expand our business while staying true to our brand’s values.”
Next, Ghaleya Al Mansoori, the founder of Kenaz Art Studio, a mobile art studio offering traditional and contemporary workshops, claimed second prize. She expressed, “The forum was an inspiring experience that enhanced my entrepreneurship knowledge and expanded my ability to promote my project to a broader audience.”
Lastly, Rory McLoughlin, co-founder of Like Minds, a UAE-based creative community, took third place. He remarked, “The forum’s focus on community-driven initiatives empowers local creatives and motivates us to push forward with our ventures.”
Boosting Dubai’s Creative Economy
Additionally, the winners received financial and in-kind prizes worth over AED 350,000, generously provided by Dubai Culture in collaboration with partners such as Dubai SME, Letswork, LinkedIn, Make Works UAE, Two Thirds, and Zoho.
In conclusion, Khulood Khoory, Director of Projects & Events at Dubai Culture, emphasized the forum’s role in strengthening Dubai’s creative economy. She stated, “This edition has further cemented Dubai’s status as a global hub for culture and creativity by celebrating the city’s thriving entrepreneurial community and providing a platform for future success.”