The New Economy Academy have partnered with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) to launch a Financial Literacy Programme to teach business owners critical financial knowledge using digital tools and resources. This will help ensure they can grow their business in a sustainable manner.
The partnership was signed in Dubai by Dr. Laila Faridoon, New Economy Academy CEO and Saoud AlJassem, Head of Commercial Banking at DIB. The initiative supports the UAE National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2026–2030. It is also part of the national campaign “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World” initiated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The programme will provide training to over 500 entrepreneurs in two cohorts as part of the Entrepreneurship Programme which will train 10,000 Emiratis over the next 5 years. Using a hands-on approach this programme will cover finance management, AI tools and sustainable business practices.
The programme covers 4 main areas;
Financial Planning – Budgeting, managing and planning using tools and forecasting.
Financial Habits – Optimize your resources and minimise any financial waste. Set short and long term goals.
AI for Business Growth – Utilise AI tools to assist with financial analysis, reporting, forecasting and managing costs.
Investment & Planning – Get ready to invest, find funding and grow your business.
Dr. Faridoon said: “Empowering SMEs starts by giving entrepreneurs access to up-to-date financial and tech tools so they can make informed investment decisions.”
AlJassem said: “Developing SMEs’ financial capability is a key step in creating a more resilient and competitive business environment. DIB is also committed to doing more than just offering banking services and want to support initiatives that help spread financial knowledge and create a sustainable business.”
