Dubai’s Expand North Star: Celebrating Innovation and Investment
A Landmark Event
Dubai Harbour recently played host to the opening of Expand North Star (ENS), the largest iteration of the event since its inception. Running from October 12 to 15, this year’s program marks the 10th anniversary of the initiative, bringing together over 2,000 startups and 1,200 investors hailing from 180 countries. The event is designed not merely as a showcase, but as a vibrant platform for networking and collaboration among angel investors, entrepreneurs, and corporate partners.
Connecting Innovators and Investors
ENS is organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre in partnership with the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. This year’s agenda is particularly focused on accelerating funding opportunities and deal flows across various exciting sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), climate technology, deep tech, digital health, and fintech. The goal is not just to highlight innovations but also to forge meaningful connections that can help all parties thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
UAE’s Vision for the Future
One of the central themes presented on the opening day was the UAE’s ambitious vision to bolster its startup ecosystem. Officials referenced the newly unveiled initiative— “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World”— which is aimed at creating 30,000 new jobs by 2030 and fostering at least 10 unicorns (valued at over $1 billion) by 2031. Omar Sultan Al Olama, the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, delivered a keynote focused on the nation’s strategy to attract long-term investments while remaining open to integrating external expertise into its plans.
Technological Foundations
Telecommunications group e& used the platform to discuss how advancements in network infrastructure and AI governance will shape the investment landscape for emerging startups. Group CEO Hatem Dowidar highlighted the significance of 5G standalone technology (often referred to as 5.5G) as a game-changer for new business models. This advancement also stresses the importance of implementing privacy-preserving data practices.
Launch of the Presight AI-Startup Accelerator
A key highlight of the first day was the Presight AI-Startup Accelerator. Launched during last year’s event, this accelerator is touted as the UAE’s first dedicated initiative from a publicly listed Middle Eastern tech company. Presight announced that its inaugural cohorts had developed market-ready prototypes, benefiting from access to comprehensive resources, strategic partnerships, and expert mentorship. CEO Thomas Pramotedham emphasized that this program serves as a “global platform” within the UAE’s AI ecosystem, fostering pathways for real commercial viability.
Furthermore, Presight has entered a partnership with the UAE Cybersecurity Council. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, the Council’s head, stressed that cybersecurity is vital for achieving successful national digital transformation.
Global Representation and Partnerships
International interest is notably expanding at ENS this year, with ApexBrasil stepping in as the event’s first Country Partner. This partnership sees 55 Brazilian startups and innovation hubs showcasing their offerings across two dedicated pavilions, with a strong emphasis on AI and fintech. Organizers note that the representation from 180 countries this year will set a new record for global participation in the event.
Spotlight on High-Valuation Startups
This year’s show features an impressive “unicorn showcase,” spotlighting over 40 high-valuation companies. Among those highlighted are PsiQuantum from the United States, focusing on creating a fault-tolerant quantum system; talabat, the on-demand delivery service from Kuwait; Andalusia Labs, which specializes in digital-asset risk infrastructure in the UAE; and Carousell, a well-known e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia. The presence of major banks and venture capital firms, including JP Morgan and Eurazeo, further enhances the event’s appeal, as they scout for promising opportunities.
A Growing Ecosystem
Since its inception in 2016, ENS has established itself as a significant driver of startup activity in the region. Organizers proudly point out that more than 8,000 founders have participated in its programs over the years. This edition emphasizes increased engagement from later-stage companies while reinforcing the UAE’s national strategic priorities, particularly around AI capacity building and talent attraction.
As the event continues through Wednesday, attendees can expect further announcements and partnerships designed to strengthen the region’s burgeoning startup ecosystem.
