Expand North Star 2025: Start-up funding in Dubai’s in5 surpasses $2.45 billion

The remarkable figure represents 14 percent growth over total funding raised as of October 2024

Funding raised by start-ups within Dubai’s leading entrepreneurship incubator, in5, has crossed AED9 billion ($2.45 billion) since its inception, as enterprising talent and ventures grow within Dubai’s pro-innovation framework.

Announced during Expand North Star 2025, the world’s largest event for start-ups and investors taking place in Dubai Harbor on October 12-15, the remarkable figure represents 14 percent growth over total funding raised as of October 2024, underscoring the role of in5’s nurturing ecosystem in accelerating entrepreneurship.

in5 supports the growth of more than 1,100 start-ups

in5 has nurtured more than 1,100 start-ups since its inception in 2013 by TECOM Group PJSC, the curator of 10 specialized business districts in Dubai. The incubator supports enterprises across four sector-specific verticals, including technology, media, design, and science.

in5 Tech is housed at a dedicated center at Dubai Internet City, while in5 Media and in5 Design are based at Dubai Production City and Dubai Design District (d3), respectively. in5 Science, launched in collaboration with Dubai Science Park, provides an enabling platform for future-focused science start-ups.

“The remarkable journey of in5’s start-ups past the AED9 billion funding mark indicates their profound impact on the innovation economy. Each success story within our ecosystem contributes to shaping a brighter global future from Dubai, in line with the overarching vision of Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’. As we gather at Expand North Star 2025, we are committed to empowering the next wave of visionary entrepreneurs enriching tomorrow’s industries,” said Majed Al Suwaidi, senior vice president at TECOM Group PJSC, on behalf of in5.

in5 showcases ecosystem members at Expand North Star 2025

At Expand North Star 2025, Dubai’s in5 is showcasing its ecosystem members such as Bellboy, an AI-powered SaaS platform that automates hospitality services to enhance user experiences; Gainz, which connects retail investors and institutions with vetted debt financing opportunities; and MyGatePass, which is transforming visitor management through seamless UAE Pass integration.

The 10th anniversary edition of Expand North Star, part of Gitex Global, has attracted more than 2,000 startups and 1,200 investors from 180 countries, reaffirming its position as the world’s largest startup and investor gathering.

This year’s edition includes Brazil as the official Country Partner, alongside first-time participation from Ecuador and Chile. With global venture capital investments reaching $368 billion in 2024, the event continues to play a pivotal role in scaling the global digital economy and driving growth across emerging AI-driven markets.

Running from October 12th to 15th, the four-day event aims to elevate investment, funding and scaling opportunities, strengthening partnerships that foster inclusive and sustainable digital development.