The coworking space trend is currently enjoying great popularity all over the world, including in Dubai. However, the UAE city is on its way to become the region’s leader in this sector. Google announced that it will launch an advanced and unique for the Gulf region Tech Hub, which will include a coworking space and an education center.
The large project will be part of the technology giant’s “Google for Entrepreneurs” and it will be developed in partnership with AstroLabs. As a result, the technology hub will be called AstroLabs Dubai. Also, it will be the first such Google-financed facility in the Middle East.
AstroLabs Dubai will be located in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Free Zone and its main goal will be to assist technology startups and entrepreneurs from all over the world to find a place on markets which offer high growth.
What Will It Feature
The entire Tech Hub will cover an areasof 6,500 square feet and it will offer great opportunities for both big teams and individual entrepreneurs. The facility will focus on mobile technology. Therefore, it will feature an advanced lab for the creation and development of mobile devices and technology. As a result, startups participating in the project will have the chance to develop their own applications. The hub will also offer five meeting halls, an indoor/outdoor café and a training hall. In addition to that, member will have the opportunity to participate in different educational events and programs many of which will be organized on an international level.
Why Dubai
Google also takes the time to explain why it has selected Dubai as the spot for its latest Tech Hub. According to the company, the city stands out with many advantages. As a start, it offers quick access to many emerging markets. Cities like Mumbai, Istanbul and Cairo are all located within just a few hours of Dubai. In addition, the local market has one of the highest smartphone penetration rates not only in the Middle East, but also in the world. Google also reminds that the economy of the emirate is currently witnessing a booming performance. Last, but not least, the U.S. giant refers to Dubai a hub of global talent, since about 90% of the people who work there are foreigners.
About the Initiative
“Google for Entrepreneurs” initiative has been around for some time. Dubai’s Tech Hub will not be the first in the world. There are already similar facilities in many cities all over the world, including in spots like London, Berlin, the Silicon Valley and Tel Aviv. As its name suggests, the campaign focus on helping startups in different countries by establishing community workshops, events and etc.
According to Google, the Tech Hub in Dubai will open in early 2015. Still, startups and entrepreneurs that wish to be accepted into the space will need to send their applications starting this fall. As for the pricing details, the company shared that they will also be announced around the same time.
