Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem Hub71 has launched the Hub71 Startup Immersion Programme at the Investopia conference in Hong Kong, creating new pathways for later-stage Hong Kong startups to access Abu Dhabi’s thriving tech ecosystem and explore regional expansion opportunities.
The programme launch, hosted under the UAE Ministry of Economy’s Investopia platform, was accompanied by the signing of MoUs with three Hong Kong innovation hubs: the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited (HSITPL), Hong Kong Cyberport, and MTR Lab. These partnerships aim to build a pipeline of high-potential startups while fostering reciprocal ecosystem access and knowledge exchange.
- HSITPL will collaborate to support startups from Mainland China and Hong Kong scaling into Abu Dhabi and the wider Middle East.
- Hong Kong Cyberport, home to over 2,200 companies, will help startups expand into the Middle East while attracting regional enterprises to Hong Kong.
- MTR Lab, focused on mobility and smart city solutions, will link its portfolio companies with Hub71 to explore expansion opportunities in the Gulf.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, Deputy CEO of Hub71, said: “Through the Hub71 Immersion Programme launched here, we connect ambitious ecosystems and create pathways for scaling startups beyond their home markets. We are enabling startups from Hong Kong to access new opportunities, leveraging Abu Dhabi’s global access to expand internationally and deliver innovative solutions that address global challenges.”
Programme Design
The two-week immersion programme combines virtual onboarding to prepare startups for market entry with an in-person session in Abu Dhabi. Founders will gain:
- Direct access to regulators, investors, and corporate partners
- Tailored mentorship and curated networking opportunities
- Opportunities to join regional pilot projects and collaborate with corporates and government entities
- Exposure to Abu Dhabi-based investors, culminating in a Demo Day during Hub71’s Impact Event
This initiative marks Hub71’s fourth cross-border engagement in 2025, following similar programmes in New Jersey, Japan, and Ireland. It underscores Abu Dhabi’s ambition to position itself as a launchpad for international startup expansion and to strengthen global economic partnerships through innovation.
