The Dubai Media Office detailed that the annual award celebrates those who embody the emirate’s distinctive approach to achievement, which focuses on converting ambitious ideas into tangible outcomes observable worldwide while building a culture of high performance. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the initiative days after the Ruler of Dubai introduced the overarching Dubai-it framework, positioning the recognition as a way to highlight success stories and the visionaries driving them across multiple sectors. The program underscores a philosophy that values actions and measurable impacts over concepts alone, aligning with Dubai’s track record of rapid project execution that has produced hundreds of notable advancements.
A statement from HE Mohammad Al Gergawi, Chairman of The Executive Office of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, framed the award as a direct extension of the ruler’s vision. “the award is a direct reflection of the vision of the ruler of Dubai, which is built on the principle that true achievements are measured by actions and outcomes, and that ideas derive value only when transformed into initiatives and projects that deliver a clear impact on people’s lives and help shape the future,” Al Gergawi stated. He added that the launch by Sheikh Hamdan anchors a work culture rooted in turning ambitions into accomplishments executed with excellence, precision and in record time, while a related description noted it is “rooted in transforming visions into a reality that the world can see, while fostering a culture of accomplishment and exceptional execution.”
Mordor Intelligence data places the UAE digital transformation market at USD 1.57 billion in 2025, with an estimate of growth to USD 1.82 billion in 2026 before continuing an upward trajectory. The consultancy’s assessment found that Dubai accounted for 55.10 percent of 2025 revenue in the sector, driven by its established fintech activity, logistics strengths and smart-city infrastructure that enables practical testing of new solutions. Separate Mordor Intelligence figures show the related technology services market is forecast to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 6.24 percent from 2025 to 2029, when it is expected to reach USD 4.79 billion.
TechUK reporting has described Dubai as ideally positioned to support start-ups and early-stage technology businesses amid the emergence of new innovations that demand agile environments. The analysis pointed to the emirate’s capacity to integrate advancements in areas such as autonomous mobility and enhanced digital services for tourism and trade, factors that have reinforced its appeal as a global innovation centre. These conditions provide a fitting backdrop for the award, which seeks to recognise contributions that accelerate such progress through exceptional delivery.
Sheikh Hamdan outlined the award’s focus in posts on social media channels, where he explained that Dubai-it involves delivering something exceptional with excellence, speed and impact. The announcement confirmed that nominations open on August 10 and will cover individuals along with corporate, institutional and project-based entries that meet the criteria of bold execution and lasting value. Official platforms are expected to release complete guidelines on eligibility and the submission process in conjunction with the opening date.
