Hatta Festival Cultivates Young Business Minds with Trader Initiative

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

In an effort to shape a generation ready for the future, Dubai has successfully launched the Young Trader initiative, organized by Brand Dubai in partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development. This initiative is a highlight of the Hatta Festival, part of the #HattaWinter initiative.

The program aims to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset in children by introducing them to fundamental business concepts in an engaging and suitable manner. Designed to be both educational and interactive, Young Trader empowers children to unleash their creativity, build confidence, and understand the benefits of commercial engagement from an early age.

As a part of this initiative, four small business projects created by children aged 8 to 13 were presented to the public. These projects showcased a variety of innovative ideas, demonstrating the creativity of the young participants while offering them a unique chance to engage with the market in real-time.

Amina Taher, representing the #HattaWinter Initiative Organising Committee, emphasized the program's objective of empowering children to recognize their potential early on. She remarked that Young Trader merges education and fun, allowing children to gain practical experience in entrepreneurship within a supportive community setting.

By sharing their concepts with visitors, children enhance their communication abilities and self-esteem, while also acquiring a clearer insight into how business operates outside the classroom.

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, stated that this initiative aligns with the strategic mission of Dubai SME to foster entrepreneurship and support the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

He noted that Young Trader gives children initial exposure to entrepreneurship, project management, and public speaking, thereby equipping them with vital skills needed to transform ideas into viable businesses in the future. This initiative, he added, reflects Dubai's commitment to nurturance of innovation and practical skills in its youth.

The #HattaWinter initiative is conducted by Brand Dubai under the oversight of the Supreme Committee for the Development of Hatta, in collaboration with various government bodies, including the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Community Development Authority, Dubai Sports Council, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

These collective endeavors demonstrate Dubai’s commitment to fostering a robust entrepreneurial culture, beginning from a young age and growing in alignment with the emirate’s broader economic aspirations.