Expand North Star Celebrates 10 Years of Global Startup Growth in Dubai
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
Dubai: The UAE marked a major milestone as Expand North Star, part of GITEX GLOBAL, celebrated its 10th anniversary this week. The event has drawn more than 2,000 startups and 1,200 investors from 180 countries, reinforcing Dubai’s status as the world’s largest startup and investor gathering.
Running from October 12 to 15, the four-day event highlights Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and AI-driven digital growth.
This year, Brazil joined as the official Country Partner, bringing together its innovation ecosystem with the UAE’s fast-growing digital economy. Tatiana Riera, Chief Operating Officer at the Dubai Office of ApexBrasil, said the UAE plays a key role in connecting global innovators.
“Brazil, home to over 20,000 startups, wants to co-create the future through partnerships in Dubai,” she noted.
Ecuador and Chile Join for the First Time
Ecuador and Chile made their debut appearances at the event. Ecuador showcased 20 startups and 22 companies offering AI and medical technology solutions. Felipe Ribadeneira, Ecuador’s Ambassador to the UAE, said this marks a new era of UAE–Ecuador cooperation, with plans to sign a technology logistics corridor agreement during the upcoming World Government Summit.
Chile also participated with 12 innovative companies across various sectors and hosted the Chile-Dubai Innovation Summit to explore opportunities in technology, trade, and export diversification.
Investors managing a combined US$1.1 trillion in assets attended this year’s edition, underscoring the event’s global economic influence.
Dr. Jorg Goschin, CEO of KFW Capital, said:
“Dubai’s strong tech ecosystem and investor-friendly environment make it a natural partner for co-investing in Europe’s top innovations.”
New Global Partnerships Signed
During the opening day, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the organiser of GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star, announced several new strategic partnerships with Presight, 28 Digital, ApexBrasil, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia. These collaborations aim to boost innovation, cross-border trade, and digital transformation.
Expand North Star continues to play a central role in achieving Dubai’s ambitious startup goals creating 30,000 new jobs by 2030 and building at least 10 unicorn companies by 2031.
The event highlights Dubai’s position as a global hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment, connecting the world’s brightest minds and most promising ventures under one platform.
