Dubai — Startups under Dubai’s in5 incubator, managed by TECOM Group, have collectively raised AED 9 billion ($2.45 billion) since its inception — a 14% increase from October 2024, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation.
The milestone was announced during the 10th anniversary edition of Expand North Star 2025 at Dubai Harbour, one of the region’s largest gatherings of startups, investors, and tech innovators.
Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President at TECOM Group, highlighted that the achievement reflects Dubai’s broader Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of the city’s economy over the next decade.
“The journey of in5’s startups past the AED 9 billion funding mark indicates their profound impact on the innovation economy,” said Al Suwaidi. “Each success story contributes to shaping a brighter global future from Dubai, empowering the next wave of visionary entrepreneurs enriching tomorrow’s industries.”
10 Years, 1,100 Startups, 4 Key Verticals
Since its founding in 2013, in5 has nurtured over 1,100 startups across four key sectors:
- Technology – based in Dubai Internet City
- Media – based in Dubai Production City
- Design – based in Dubai Design District (d3)
- Science – launched in partnership with Dubai Science Park, supporting startups in future-focused scientific innovation
The incubator offers entrepreneurs access to funding, mentorship, workspace, and networking opportunities through TECOM’s broader ecosystem of ten specialized business districts.
Showcasing Innovation at Expand North Star 2025
At the event, in5 showcased several of its standout ecosystem startups, including:
- Bellboy – an AI-powered SaaS platform revolutionizing hospitality through automation.
- Gainz – a fintech platform connecting retail investors with institutional-grade debt financing opportunities.
- MyGatePass – a smart visitor management solution integrated with UAE Pass for seamless digital access.
Driving Dubai’s Innovation Economy
The latest milestone underscores Dubai’s continued success in building a thriving innovation economy anchored by public-private collaboration, global investor engagement, and a supportive regulatory framework for entrepreneurs.
With its AED 9 billion funding benchmark, in5 stands as one of the region’s most successful startup ecosystems, symbolizing Dubai’s transformation into a launchpad for global innovation and technology entrepreneurship.
