Expand North Star, the world’s largest startup and investor event, will celebrate its 10th edition from 12-15 October at Dubai Harbour.

Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the event marks a decade of positioning Dubai as a global hub for the digital economy. The milestone aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).

Officials revealed that the event has seen remarkable growth since its launch in 2016. The number of participating countries increased from 39 to more than 100 in 2024.

• Digital startups rose from 350 to 1,800, a 414% increase.
• Investors surged from 150 to 1,200, marking 700% growth.

The number of speakers also climbed from 25 in 2016 to 650 in the last edition, reflecting the expanding scale of activities.

Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, stated that North Star has played a key role in supporting Dubai’s vision as a centre for innovation and entrepreneurship. He added that the event has become a strategic platform for entrepreneurs and investors to explore opportunities in Dubai and shape the global digital economy.

He announced that the 10th edition will continue attracting global tech leaders while showcasing Dubai’s advantages as a destination for digital companies. The platform connects innovators, founders, startups, and investors.

North Star plays a critical role in advancing entrepreneurship and investment across digital industries. Startups in AI, blockchain, fintech, deep tech, climate tech, and Web3 will showcase their ventures. Investors and venture capitalists will seek promising opportunities for early-stage funding.

The event also highlights knowledge sharing, global networking, and youth engagement. In the 2024 edition, 65 unicorn companies participated, with a combined market value of over US$400 billion. The ‘YouthX Unipreneur’ programme was also hosted, recognised as the UAE’s largest youth-focused startup initiative.

Entrepreneurs will again compete in the Supernova Challenge for funding of up to US$200,000. Organisers reported that the challenge equips startups with the tools, guidance, and networks needed to scale successfully.

North Star continues to expand its role as a gateway for innovation, investment, and international growth in the digital economy.

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