GITEX GLOBAL announced the official opening of Expand North Star 2025, the world’s largest startup and investor connector event, in Dubai. The event launched its landmark 10th anniversary on Sunday, attracting thousands of local and international visitors.

Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, Expand North Star 2025 runs at Dubai Harbour from 12 to 15 October. It brings together leading founders, investors, entrepreneurs, executives, and public-private partners from across the world. The four-day programme aims to boost funding, scaling, and deal flows while driving inclusive digital growth across emerging AI economies.

Since its debut in 2016, Expand North Star has become a global hub for innovation and investment. The 2025 edition connects over 2,000 disruptive startups with 1,200 international investors managing US$1.1 trillion in assets. The event features high-growth startups in AI, climate tech, deep tech, digital health, and fintech.

Officials revealed that this year’s edition aligns with the UAE’s new initiative, The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World, which aims to position the nation as a leading global startup hub. The initiative targets 30,000 new jobs by 2030 and the creation of at least 10 unicorns by 2031.

His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, stated that the UAE continues to invest in AI and innovation to strengthen its global position. He emphasized collaboration and knowledge-sharing as key to achieving long-term success.

Hatem Dowidar, Global CEO of e&, discussed the role of 5G, AI governance, and privacy in shaping future startups. He noted that emerging technologies like 5.5G will enable new business opportunities.

The event also highlighted Presight, a G42 company, which unveiled the first cohorts from its AI-Startup Accelerator launched in 2024. The programme supports early-stage ventures with access to infrastructure, mentorship, and commercial opportunities. Presight CEO Thomas Pramotedham said the UAE and Abu Dhabi are emerging as the AI capitals of the world.

Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government, reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to ensuring data privacy and national security while supporting entrepreneurs driving innovation.

Brazil was announced as the first-ever Country Partner for Expand North Star. ApexBrasil led 55 startups and innovation hubs showcasing AI and fintech solutions addressing global challenges.

Expand North Star 2025 also features the largest-ever unicorn showcase with over 40 companies, including PsiQuantum from the USA, talabat from Kuwait, Andalusia Labs from the UAE, and Carousell from Singapore.

Major global investors attending include:

• JP Morgan (USA)
• Daiwa Capital Management (Japan)
• Eurazeo (France)
• Octopus Energy Generation (UK)
• Qatar National Bank (Qatar)
• Raiffeisenbank (Austria)
• Samsung Ventures (Japan)
• SBI Ventures (Germany)

GITEX GLOBAL reported that this year marks a record-breaking level of international participation, reflecting Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

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