Expand North Star 2025, GITEX Global’s startup-focused section, launched earlier this week at Dubai Harbour, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from all over the world.
The event connects over 2,000 startups, over 40 unicorns, and 1,200 investors with a combined $1.1 trillion in assets under management.
Expand North Star, hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy and organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre, has grown to be one of the world’s biggest investor and startup connector events. Since its launch in 2016, the platform has helped thousands of founders scale their businesses and served as a launching pad for international investment and expansion.
UAE’s long-term goals in AI and digital transformation
During the opening session, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, outlined the UAE’s long-term AI and digital transformation goals.
“We don’t think like other countries; we think in multidecade intervals. We started investing in AI in 2008, in the very early days. Against all odds, we are proving that we can be a key player in the domain of AI,” he said.
“It’s important for us not only to succeed but for everyone who comes to the UAE to help us understand what we can do better. One thing we promise is that if people come to us with advice, we are going to take it seriously and ensure that it’s implemented in the coming years,” he added.
Tech sectors covered at GITEX Global 2025
The four-day program covers AI, climate tech, deep tech, digital health, and fintech. It highlights cutting-edge technologies and game-changing solutions.
According to Hatem Dowidar, Global CEO of e&, the startup scene in the United Arab Emirates is changing quickly.
“As technology and customer needs change, we may see pivots in investment criteria. Innovations such as 5G standalone and 5.5G will enable new businesses, including startups. Proper AI governance is also critical to maintain data integrity and privacy,” he said.
Thomas Pramotedham, CEO of Presight, a G42 company and the biggest big data analytics firm in the region, is one of the participants from the UAE. Launched at Expand North Star 2024, its AI startup accelerator offers enterprise partnerships, access to international markets, and technical mentorship to early-stage businesses.
“What sets our accelerator apart is that we are creating a global platform where technology and innovation meet. Our cohorts gain access not only to computing and expertise but also to real business opportunities, connecting with ambassadors, enterprises, and key stakeholders from the public and private sectors,” Pramotedham said.
First-ever Country Partner for Expand North Star 2025
Brazil is the first-ever Country Partner for Expand North Star 2025, which also features international collaboration. Innovation hubs and startups in Brazil are exhibiting fintech, AI, and other solutions aimed at tackling global issues.
The UAE’s standing as a global centre for startups, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies is strengthened by the expansion of North Star 2025, which gives investors and innovators a platform to boost growth, encourage cooperation, and promote inclusive digital transformation.