Dubai has long been recognized as a regional hub for innovation, and this reputation was further strengthened with the launch of the first Henry Ford Entrepreneurship Academy (HFEA) Future Transportation and Mobility workshop. Held from October 21–23 in collaboration with Dubai’s Youth Hub, the workshop brought together 14 promising entrepreneurs to learn, grow, and showcase their ideas. For a region that is increasingly becoming a magnet for startups, platforms like MAGNiTT and initiatives such as Ford’s Entrepreneurship Academy are key enablers of growth, offering young innovators the networks and resources they need to thrive.
A Landmark Initiative in Entrepreneurship
The Henry Ford Entrepreneurship Academy was designed to inspire, equip, and empower aspiring entrepreneurs who are eager to transform the future of transportation and mobility. This inaugural workshop in Dubai was not only a first for the Middle East but also a bold step by Ford to support the next wave of innovators who will drive meaningful change in society.
Over the course of three days, 14 entrepreneurs engaged in a distinctive programme that combined practical business training, mentorship, and interactive sessions. Unlike conventional entrepreneurship workshops, the HFEA emphasized actionable skills, providing participants with the confidence to refine their ideas into feasible business models.
Access to Prominent Mentors and Leaders
One of the defining strengths of the HFEA workshop was the caliber of its mentors. The participants gained unrivalled access to global and regional business leaders, seasoned entrepreneurs, and co-founders of impactful enterprises. A highlight was the involvement of Mark Ovenden, President of Ford Middle East and Africa, whose leadership insights underscored the value of innovation and adaptability in today’s competitive landscape.
These mentorship opportunities were invaluable. Many early-stage entrepreneurs often struggle with building connections and finding guidance from experienced professionals. By bridging this gap, the Academy provided participants with direct, high-impact learning experiences that could accelerate their entrepreneurial journeys.
The Workshop Experience
The structure of the programme was designed to simulate the real-world challenges of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs were guided through exercises in problem identification, solution design, customer validation, and pitching. Special attention was placed on transportation and mobility, two areas of immense importance for Dubai and the wider Middle East.
With cities across the region rapidly growing, the need for innovative mobility solutions is urgent. Participants were challenged to think critically about sustainability, efficiency, and smart infrastructure, ensuring that their ideas addressed both immediate and long-term needs.
The atmosphere was charged with creativity and determination. Entrepreneurs not only learned from the mentors but also from each other, building connections that could serve as the foundation for future collaborations.
Celebrating the Winners: Alexandre Rigaud and Abdulla Al Ali
At the close of the workshop, two entrepreneurs emerged as joint winners: Alexandre Rigaud and Abdulla Al Ali. Their projects stood out for their originality, feasibility, and potential impact on the mobility sector.
Rather than offering a one-time prize, the Academy ensured that the winners received something of lasting value: in-depth consultancy from premier US-based startup strategy firms. This consultancy will provide both Rigaud and Al Ali with personalized guidance on refining their business strategies, scaling their ventures, and preparing for international markets.
The decision to award joint winners reflected the Academy’s emphasis on collaboration and diversity of thought. Both entrepreneurs demonstrated that innovation does not have a single formula—it thrives in different perspectives and approaches.
The Ripple Effect of the Academy
While only two winners were chosen, the benefits of the HFEA extended to all participants. Each entrepreneur left the workshop with enhanced knowledge, new connections, and a stronger sense of purpose. The exposure to mentors and industry leaders created pathways that could open doors to funding, partnerships, and long-term success.
For Dubai, hosting the inaugural Henry Ford Entrepreneurship Academy was a milestone in its journey toward becoming a global hub for innovation. The city has already established itself as a magnet for startups, and initiatives like this reinforce its commitment to creating ecosystems where entrepreneurship flourishes.
Alignment With Regional Goals
The Academy’s focus on transportation and mobility was not accidental. These sectors are central to the vision of the UAE and the broader Middle East, where governments are investing heavily in smart cities, sustainability, and technology-driven infrastructure. By encouraging entrepreneurs to work on solutions in these fields, Ford aligned the Academy with regional priorities while also addressing global challenges.
Moreover, the Academy echoed the broader entrepreneurial spirit seen across the region, where organizations like MAGNiTT have been instrumental in connecting startups with investors, accelerators, and industry stakeholders. Together, such platforms and programmes create a supportive ecosystem that helps entrepreneurs turn ambitious ideas into impactful ventures.
Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation
The success of the inaugural HFEA workshop in Dubai is only the beginning. With its strong mentorship model, practical focus, and alignment with regional goals, the Academy has established a blueprint for future editions across the Middle East and beyond.
Ford’s initiative demonstrates a recognition that entrepreneurship is essential for tackling the challenges of tomorrow. Just as Henry Ford himself transformed transportation by reimagining what was possible, today’s young entrepreneurs are being given the tools and inspiration to create the next wave of breakthroughs.
Conclusion
The inaugural Henry Ford Entrepreneurship Academy in Dubai was a resounding success, showcasing the power of mentorship, collaboration, and innovation. By providing a platform for tech-minded entrepreneurs to learn, grow, and connect with industry leaders, the Academy planted seeds that will shape the future of mobility in the region.
With joint winners Alexandre Rigaud and Abdulla Al Ali leading the way, the workshop highlighted not only the potential of individual entrepreneurs but also the collective strength of Dubai’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Supported by initiatives like Ford’s Academy and platforms such as MAGNiTT, the region is steadily building an environment where startups can thrive, scale, and make a lasting global impact.
