Expand North Star Celebrates Decade of Impact as World’s Largest Startup and Investor Event Returns to Dubai
Dubai is set to witness the milestone 10th edition of Expand North Star, the world’s largest event for startups and investors, from 12-15 October 2025 at Dubai Harbour. Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, this event commemorates a decade of remarkable growth, further advancing Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for digital innovation in alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
Since its launch in 2016, Expand North Star has experienced dramatic expansion. The number of countries represented by exhibiting companies and participating investors has surged from 39 in 2016 to over 100 in the 2024 edition. The event’s influence as a gateway to global investment opportunities is underscored by the exponential increase in participating companies—from 350 digital startups in 2016 to 1,800 in 2024, a 414 percent increase. Similarly, investor participation soared from 150 to 1,200 within the same period, marking an impressive 700 percent growth.
The platform’s expanding impact is also reflected in its content and expertise. The number of speakers involved grew from 25 to 650 in just eight years, offering participants access to unique global insights and knowledge-sharing.
Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, remarked, “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. Over the last years, 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.”
Al Gergawi further affirmed, “Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy is committed to building on the success of Expand North Star as it enters its tenth edition. We remain focused on continuing to attract the global tech community and showcasing Dubai’s competitive advantages as a leading destination for digital companies, as well as an ideal platform for connecting innovators, founders, startups, and global investors.”
A DYNAMIC LAUNCHPAD FOR THE DIGITAL FUTURE
Expand North Star’s critical contribution to shaping the future of investment and entrepreneurship in digital sectors continues to draw the world’s brightest minds in startup innovation. With startups representing every area of technology—from fintech and deep tech to AI, blockchain, climate tech, marketing, and Web 3—and with venture capitalists and fund managers searching for high-potential opportunities, the event provides a comprehensive platform for idea exchange, venture showcasing, and funding acquisition, from initial launch stages through to major funding rounds.
A WEALTH OF NETWORKING AND OPPORTUNITIES
Expand North Star equips entrepreneurs with the specialised knowledge, guidance, and networks vital for scaling businesses internationally. Attendees access strategic insights from the world’s most successful digital ventures, and enjoy unmatched networking with global technology and innovation leaders.
The event’s influence is further highlighted by the participation of 65 unicorn companies—innovators valued at over US$400 billion—in last year’s edition. The programme also featured the ‘YouthX Unipreneur’ initiative, now the UAE’s largest youth-focused programme in the startup and innovation ecosystem.
COMPETITIONS AND CHALLENGES
Entrepreneurs this year will again have the chance to compete for funding of up to US$200,000 through the prestigious Supernova Challenge, gaining not only funding but also invaluable support and connections to turn their business ideas into thriving ventures.
As Expand North Star approaches its 10th landmark edition, it remains pivotal in empowering the next generation of digital entrepreneurs, accelerating the global transition towards a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
