Dubai is set to host the 10th edition of Expand North Star, the world’s largest event for startups and investors, 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 supporting Dubai’s vision to become a global hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and advanced technologies in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
Since its launch in 2016, Expand North Star has grown significantly in scale and impact. The number of participating startups has surged from 350 in the inaugural edition to 1,800 in 2024, an increase of 414 percent. Over the same period, investor participation rose by 700 percent, from 150 to 1,200, while the number of speakers expanded from 25 to 650. The 2024 edition alone attracted exhibitors and investors from over 100 countries.
“Since its inception in 2016, Expand North Star has played a pivotal role in supporting Dubai’s vision of becoming a global centre for innovation and entrepreneurship in advanced technologies,” said Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. “This event has transformed into a strategic platform that empowers entrepreneurs and investors from around the world to explore growth opportunities in Dubai and contributes to shaping the global digital economy.”
The upcoming edition will continue to spotlight cutting-edge trends and high-potential opportunities across blockchain, fintech, deep tech, climate tech, AI, and Web3. It will also host the Supernova Challenge, where entrepreneurs compete for funding of up to US$200,000.
Beyond investment opportunities, Expand North Star provides access to knowledge-sharing platforms, mentorship, and networking with global leaders. Last year, the event featured 65 unicorns with a combined market value exceeding US$400 billion and launched the YouthX Unipreneur initiative, the UAE’s largest youth-focused programme in startups and innovation.
As it celebrates its 10th year, Expand North Star continues to reinforce Dubai’s reputation as a global destination for digital companies and a catalyst for advancing the international digital economy.
–Input WAM
