Start-ups operating within in5, Dubai’s flagship entrepreneurship incubator, have collectively raised over AED 9 billion in funding since its launch in 2013. The milestone was announced during Expand North Star 2025, held from October 12–15 at Dubai Harbour.

The new figure marks a 14% increase over total funding raised as of October 2024 and reflects the growing appeal of Dubai’s innovation ecosystem. in5 is operated by TECOM Group PJSC and supports early-stage companies across four key sectors: technology, media, design, and science.

Since its establishment, in5 has supported more than 1,100 start-ups. Its sector-specific facilities include in5 Tech in Dubai Internet City, in5 Media in Dubai Production City, in5 Design in Dubai Design District (d3), and in5 Science in partnership with Dubai Science Park.

“The AED 9 billion milestone reflects the strength of in5’s ecosystem and its alignment with Dubai’s innovation strategy,” said Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President at TECOM Group. The incubator supports the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to position Dubai among the top global cities for economic growth and innovation.

In the first half of 2025, in5 hosted 94 events offering mentorship, advisory sessions, and investor engagement opportunities. Companies showcased at Expand North Star included Bellboy, an AI-driven hospitality automation platform; Gainz, a fintech venture focused on private credit; and MyGatePass, a visitor management solution using UAE Pass integration.

Recent funding rounds from in5-based ventures include AED 22 million for Halo AI, AED 5.5 million for Wittify AI, and AED 1.8 million for Armoir, a luggage-tech start-up. in5 Tech also hosts the in5 Investor Hub, a dedicated space for investors to engage with emerging companies.

TECOM Group, which operates 10 business districts in Dubai, including Dubai Internet City and Dubai Science Park, continues to play a central role in advancing the city’s knowledge-based economy.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office