IFZA has launched its inaugural Scale360 accelerator, a market access program designed to connect high-potential international startups with the UAE’s dynamic business ecosystem. The program officially kicked off during GITEX Global 2025 with a Dubai Immersion Week, welcoming its first cohort of 15 global startups specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability.
Inaugural Cohort Focuses On AI And Sustainability
The first Scale360 cohort features 15 international startups poised to make an impact across sectors ranging from retail and banking to defence and green technology. The selected companies include Groundup.ai, BrandContext, Nucleon Security, Organized Matter, GlassHUB, ShareID, Tayar | طيار, ISTINA AI, Power Dime, Sensgreen, nettle, RELAYTO AI, 913.ai, Interloom, and Synteza AI. This diverse group represents the next wave of innovation entering the MENA region.
Strategic Partnerships And Ecosystem Integration
During the immersion week, Scale360 partnered with Shorooq Partners for its annual GITEX Social, a premier networking event that gathered over 300 investors, partners, and ecosystem leaders. Other key partners for the program include NVIDIA, Taylor Wessing, ElevenLabs, LimonCloud, and Verod-Kepple. The collaboration comes as Shorooq Partners recently announced a new $100 million AI fund, underscoring the region’s commitment to fostering cutting-edge technology.
Guiding Global Founders Into The UAE Market
A key component of the program was a fireside chat titled “Do’s and Don’ts for Foreign Startups Entering the UAE,” featuring insights from industry experts Gilles Praet (Sentiance), Fabrizio Siracusano (serial entrepreneur), and Yahya Iqelan (MBZUAI). The panel provided actionable advice on navigating the local business landscape and leveraging public-private collaborations for growth. “Scale360 bridges ambition with access,” said Sinead O’Keeffe, Head of Scale360. “Our role is to ensure international startups can enter the UAE market ready to collaborate, contribute, and grow alongside the region’s most forward-looking partners.”
Aligning With National Vision
The accelerator’s dual focus on AI and sustainability directly aligns with the UAE’s strategic objectives, including the National AI Strategy 2031 and the Net Zero by 2050 initiative. By attracting and nurturing ventures in these critical fields, Scale360 reinforces the role of free zones in supporting startup growth and cements Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for emerging technologies and green innovation. The program will culminate in a Demo Day in November 2025, where the startups will pitch to potential investors.
About Scale360
Scale360 by IFZA is a premier startup launchpad designed to attract, support, and scale high-potential startups in Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability. As Dubai’s gateway for the next generation of global innovation, Scale360 empowers entrepreneurs to establish their presence, access mentorship, build strategic partnerships, and accelerate growth in the UAE and the wider MENA region. Through tailored programming, networking opportunities, and connections to corporate and investment ecosystems, Scale360 helps startups turn ambition into tangible impact while showcasing Dubai as a leading hub for innovation and sustainable development.
Source: Zawya
