Dubai is set to commemorate a significant milestone in its technology ecosystem as Expand North Star, the world’s largest event for startups and investors, celebrates its tenth anniversary. Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the 2025 edition will take place from October 12–15 at Dubai Harbour, continuing its legacy of connecting global innovators with capital, strategic partnerships, and new markets. The event has become a crucial pillar in cementing Dubai’s reputation as a capital of the digital economy.
A Decade of Global Impact
Since its inception in 2016, Expand North Star has served as a vital platform for thousands of digital startups aiming for global scale. The event has consistently provided a unique convergence point for founders, venture capitalists, and corporate leaders, facilitating multi-million-dollar investment deals and fostering collaborations that accelerate growth. It stands as a flagship initiative of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, directly supporting the emirate’s ambition to transform into a premier global hub for technology and innovation.
From Seed Rounds to Unicorns
The success stories emerging from Expand North Star highlight its tangible impact on the global startup landscape. Nigerian mobility fintech Moove raised over $460 million from prominent investors like Uber and BlackRock after participating, subsequently expanding into 13 markets and reaching a valuation of around $750 million. Other notable fundraising successes include French virtual agent developer Obo, which secured $20 million in 2024, and India’s Freshcraft Technologies, which raised $12.7 million in 2022. Similarly, India-based Zaara Biotech attracted $10 million to establish its operations in the UAE. The event has also catalysed growth for early-stage ventures, with ShopDoc raising $1.36 million, Machbee Innovations securing $1.1 million, and Orgaayur Productions obtaining $58,000 for its urban agriculture solutions.
A Gateway for International Expansion
Beyond facilitating investments, Expand North Star has proven to be an effective launchpad for international expansion. In 2023, UK-based Lorien Finance leveraged the platform to initiate its growth strategy across the Middle East. DeepSeek AI, an exhibitor from the 2024 edition, rapidly gained global recognition following its participation, underscoring the event’s value for pioneering technology firms seeking a global stage. This track record demonstrates the event’s role as a strategic gateway for companies looking to scale from Dubai to the world.
Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, remarked, “For over a decade, Expand North Star has been a leading platform for innovation and opportunity. Its success stories demonstrate Dubai’s status as a global centre for the digital economy and a gateway for startups to scale from Dubai to the world.”
About Expand North Star
Expand North Star is the world’s largest event dedicated to startups and investors. Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the annual gathering connects a global community of innovators, venture capitalists, and tech leaders. Its mission is to facilitate investment, forge strategic partnerships, and provide a platform for startups to accelerate their global growth, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading digital economy hub.
Source: Wamda
