The International Free Zone Authority, IFZA, has announced the successful graduation of its inaugural Scale360 accelerator cohort, solidifying Dubai’s position as a launchpad for global innovation. The Demo Day saw 14 international AI and sustainability startups showcase significant commercial traction, with several already launching pilots, securing local licenses, and relocating their headquarters to the UAE.
From Global Applications to Local Integration
Selected from a competitive pool of 136 global applicants, the final cohort represented a diverse geographic spread from 11 countries, including Singapore, Egypt, the UK, the US, and Saudi Arabia. The program has yielded immediate results, demonstrating a powerful pipeline for talent and technology into the region. Eight participating startups are now advancing their UAE licensing and company setup, while two are in the process of moving their global headquarters to Dubai.
Further cementing its role as an active ecosystem partner, IFZA has also launched three AI and sustainability pilot programs with cohort companies.
“At IFZA, we’re not just a host; we’re the Free Zone community founders rely on,” said Jochen Knecht, CEO of IFZA. “From licensing and pilot facilitation to curated corporate and investor introductions, Scale360 removes barriers so companies can grow from Dubai into the region. That practical support is central to the UAE’s innovation agenda, and we will keep investing in the infrastructure and relationships founders need to succeed here.”
Forging Commercial Pathways
The Scale360 program, developed in partnership with global innovation platform Plug and Play, provided startups with structured support and deep market access. Across the cohort, the 14 companies participated in 33 commercial introductions with UAE corporates and government entities, and held 49 meetings with 11 participating regional investors, including BECO Capital and AngelSpark.
This hands-on approach was complemented by over 50 hours of structured mentorship covering critical areas such as sales, business development, technical strategy, legal frameworks, and fundraising.
Cohort Startups Secure Major Wins
Several startups achieved significant breakthroughs during the accelerator. Egypt-based Tayar, which is electrifying last-mile delivery fleets, signed a partnership with Talabat and entered advanced discussions with Keeta and Amazon. The company is also nearing the close of its current funding round, boosted by introductions made during the program.
Other notable successes include Synteza AI’s selection for the Dubai Police Innovation Sprint 2.0 at GITEX, Interloom being named a global winner of the Zurich Insurance Innovation Challenge, and Nettle AI’s acceptance into the Microsoft GrowthX Accelerator Program in Abu Dhabi.
“Our startups proved that Dubai is where global AI and sustainability companies can build, partner, and scale quickly,” commented Sinéad O’Keeffe, Head of Scale360. “The impact has been immediate, with pilots launched, investor engagement, and teams relocating to the UAE. This momentum aligns with national priorities such as the UAE National AI Strategy 2031 and the Net Zero by 2050 commitment.”
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
