Expand North Star 2025: A Hub for Global Innovation
Expand North Star 2025 is set to take place at Dubai Harbour from October 12 to 15, 2025. Organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, this event brings together a diverse group of participants, including founders, investors, entrepreneurs, and business executives from around the world.
A Catalyst for Growth
Since its inception in 2016, Expand North Star has earned its reputation as a vital platform for collaboration and investment. Over the years, more than 8,000 founders have utilized this forum to advance their businesses. The upcoming edition aims to connect over 2,000 of the most innovative startups with 1,200 international investors who manage assets totaling an impressive US$1.1 trillion.
The initiative reflects the UAE government’s strategic vision to cultivate innovation and attract global talent. Aiming to create 30,000 new jobs by 2030 and at least 10 unicorns—companies valued at over US$1 billion—by 2031, this event is a crucial component of the UAE’s broader economic strategy.
Insights on AI and Innovation
During a keynote address, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, shared insights into the country’s ambitious AI strategy. He emphasized the UAE’s long-term vision, stating, “We don’t think like other countries; we think in multi-decade intervals.” He noted that the UAE began investing in AI as early as 2008, positioning itself as a key player in this emerging field. Al Olama highlighted the importance of listening to external advice and being adaptive as the years progress.
The Role of Technology in Startups
In a panel discussion titled “Scaling a Digital Future,” Hatem Dowidar, CEO of e&, spoke about the evolution of technology and its impact on business investment criteria. He emphasized the potential of 5G technology to redefine the startup landscape while pointing out the necessity for robust AI governance to ensure data integrity and privacy. Dowidar remarked, “We’ve implemented a full AI governance system that ensures data anonymity and customer privacy.”
Spotlight on Emerging Enterprises
Participation from major players is noteworthy, with Presight, a G42 company, being a prime example. As the largest big data analytics firm in the region, Presight revealed its first cohort of market-ready prototypes from its AI-Startup Accelerator program. This program is the UAE’s inaugural dedicated AI acceleration initiative launched by a publicly listed technology company, designed to provide startups with essential commercial pathways and mentorship.
CEO Thomas Pramotedham emphasized the unique value of the program, saying, “With G42’s ecosystem and the UAE’s reach, we offer our cohorts not only compute and expertise—but real business.”
Partnerships for Cybersecurity
On the opening day, Presight also announced a partnership with the UAE Cybersecurity Council. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, the Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government, highlighted the integral role of entrepreneurship in strengthening national security. “Safety and security will always be one of the main pillars,” he stated, asserting the need for technological advancements to be guided by security considerations.
Record-Breaking Participation
Set to be a landmark event, Expand North Star 2025 will see participation from 180 countries, making it the most globally represented edition to date. Among its notable partners is ApexBrasil, the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, making its debut as a Country Partner. At the event, 55 startups and innovation hubs from Brazil will showcase their advancements in AI and fintech, demonstrating how the country is addressing global challenges.
Showcasing Unicorns
This year’s event features its largest unicorn showcase yet, with over 40 distinguished companies. PsiQuantum, a US$68 billion company working on quantum computing technology, and talabat, a leading online ordering and delivery platform valued at US$8.5 billion, are among those expected to draw significant interest. The event will also highlight other fast-growing ventures, including Andalusia Labs and Carousell, which have made their mark as rapid unicorns in the tech space.
Conclusion
With a wealth of knowledge and innovative solutions from global participants, Expand North Star 2025 promises to be a defining moment for technological advancement and international collaboration. The assembly of venture capital firms, multinational banking institutions, and tech startups at this event showcases the UAE’s commitment to leading the charge in the next era of innovation.
