For UK founders with global ambitions, October 2025 could be a defining moment. From 12-15 October, Dubai Harbour will host the 10th anniversary edition of Expand North Star, the world’s largest event for startups and investors. Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, this landmark gathering is set to be the biggest yet.
Why It Matters For UK Startups
Post-Brexit, UK entrepreneurs are pushing harder to scale internationally. Access to capital, new markets, and strategic partners has never been more critical. Expand North Star offers all three under one roof. Last year, the event welcomed 1,800 startups and 1,200 investors, generating over 13,000 investor meetings and showcasing more than 500 Series A+ ventures.
Funding On The Line
One of the highlights is the Supernova Challenge, the world’s largest startup pitch competition with a US$200,000 prize pool. For UK founders ready to scale, this is a chance to pitch to top investors and gain exposure on a truly global stage.
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Innovation At The Centre
The 2025 edition will debut new features, including ScaleX (for the world’s fastest-growing scale-ups), a Consumer Tech Zone for AR/VR and health tech, a Green Impact track for climate solutions, and the Deeptech MEA Summit covering AI, robotics, and quantum computing. These reflect areas where UK startups already excel, making Dubai a natural extension for growth.
A Global Gateway
Dubai has become a magnet for international entrepreneurs, ranked as the #1 city for Greenfield FDI projects for four years in a row. Its location offers startups access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, regions that UK founders often struggle to reach from home.
Beyond The Sessions
Networking isn’t limited to conference halls. Through “North Star by Night,” founders and investors connect at curated receptions and socials that turn introductions into lasting partnerships. For entrepreneurs, these informal connections can be just as valuable as the main programme.
For ambitious startups eyeing their next stage of growth, Dubai in October represents more than an event, it’s a launchpad to the world.
Visit expandnorthstar.com today to secure your place at Expand North Star 2025.
