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Dubai picked to host first overseas Russian innovation hub

Dubai Internet City (DIC) has signed an agreement with the Russian Export Centre (REC) to launch the first Russian Centre for Digital Innovations and Information and Communication Technologies outside of Russia in Dubai.

The centre, which will encompass of a space of over 20,000 sq ft within DIC, is the first of four global centres planned, and the first commitment to investment promotion of this scale by Russia abroad, a statement said.

The opening of the centre comes at a time when the UAE and Russia reported growth in bilateral trade between the countries to $1.2 billion in 2017.

Leaders of both nations are committed to deepen their economic relationship, following a two-day visit by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces to Russia.

Leaders of both countries reviewed bilateral relations, discussed cooperation, and signed a new strategic partnership earlier this year.

Ammar Al Malik, managing director, Dubai Internet City and Dubai Outsource City said: “The UAE and Russia have shared close business ties for decades, and for DIC to be chosen as the first overseas destination by REC is a true testament to Dubai’s key position as a global business destination.

“The Russian Centre for Digital Innovations and ICT in UAE, along with other innovation centres and labs that DIC is home to, will serve as a catalyst for this vision.”

Marat Korovaev, head of IT Export Support Department, REC added: “Dubai’s vision, plans and efforts to becoming the smartest city in the world are second to none, and we believe that the Russian IT industry can contribute significantly to the achievement of this vision.

“Long-standing bilateral ties, favourable and simplified business processes, and a nurturing environment that promotes ideation and exchange of knowledge and best practices, are key factors that impelled us to choose Dubai and DIC as the first destination for our four planned centres outside Russia.”

In addition to opening the centre, the Russian Export Centre and DIC will jointly work to support Russia and UAE-based technology companies of all sizes, including start-ups and entrepreneurs and further support DIC’s commitment to provide a thriving and nurturing ecosystem for companies to thrive in, the statement added.

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