In a recent LinkedIn post, Simon Squibb shares a significant re-evaluation of his perceptions of Dubai, revealing a shift from viewing it as merely materialistic to recognizing its burgeoning potential for genuine entrepreneurial development. Squibb admits his initial impressions were shaped by media portrayals of flashy lifestyles, but asserts that a deeper look reveals a community eager to build substantial ventures.
Shifting Perceptions of Dubai’s Business Environment
Simon Squibb begins by directly addressing his previous misconceptions about Dubai. He writes:
I was wrong about Dubai.
I was wrong to think it was just materialistic. All flashy cars and jewellery with no real purpose.
That’s what the media told me. That’s what social media showed me.
But it’s not.
According to Squibb, the reality on the ground is far different from these external narratives. He observes that Dubai is populated by individuals with a strong desire to create meaningful businesses, even if many lack the initial guidance on how to proceed.
Addressing the Gap: A Free Accelerator Program
To bridge this identified gap between entrepreneurial ambition and practical execution, Simon Squibb announced the launch of a free accelerator program specifically for founders in the UAE. He emphasizes that this initiative is designed for anyone looking to establish a business in Dubai, regardless of their current stage of development.
Squibb highlights his collaboration with Virtuzone, a company he credits with being at the forefront of fostering entrepreneurship in the region. He notes Virtuzone’s extensive track record:
Virtuzone has helped over 80,000 entrepreneurs from 180 different countries get set up in Dubai. And with the launch of our accelerator, it’s about to be thousands more.
The accelerator program aims to support aspiring entrepreneurs, from those who have already begun building their ventures to those with only a nascent dream.
Incentives for Aspiring Founders
Beyond the foundational support, Squibb revealed several incentives to encourage participation and reward success within the program. He details these offerings, stating:
AND we’re giving away 3 x $2,500 to founders in the program. PLUS a free business license to the winner! (worth **£1.3K – £3.8K)**
This combination of free mentorship, resources, and financial/licensing awards underscores Squibb’s commitment to nurturing new businesses in Dubai. The program is scheduled to commence on March 16th, with a dedicated link provided for interested founders to apply.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Dubai’s Startup Scene
Simon Squibb’s latest post signifies not only a personal shift in perspective regarding Dubai but also a proactive step towards cultivating its entrepreneurial ecosystem. By offering a free accelerator and tangible incentives, Squibb and Virtuzone are positioning themselves as key facilitators for founders seeking to establish and grow their businesses in the emirate. As Squibb points out, the program is there to help those who are ready to build or even just dreaming of it.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Simon Squibb on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on March 10, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →