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Dubai incubator in5 startups cross $2.45bn funding milestone at Expand North Star 2025

Dubai in5 start-ups have raised over $2.45bn, marking 14 per cent growth as incubator drives innovation at Expand North Star 2025

by Will Milner
in5 Dubai
Dubai’s in5 start-ups have raised over $2.45bn since launch, marking 14 per cent growth as the incubator drives innovation at Expand North Star 2025

Dubai entrepreneurship incubator, in5, has crossed AED9bn ($2.45bn) in total funding raised since inception, reflecting 14 per cent growth over October 2024 and highlighting the strength of Dubai’s pro-innovation ecosystem.

Organisers announced the milestone during the 10th anniversary edition of Expand North Star 2025, the world’s largest start-up and investor event held at Dubai Harbour from October 12–15.

The figure underscores in5’s role in accelerating entrepreneurship and nurturing next-generation ventures within Dubai’s thriving knowledge economy.

In5 Dubai startups

Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President at TECOM Group PJSC, speaking on behalf of in5, said the achievement reflected the deep impact of its ecosystem.

Al Suwaidi said: “The remarkable journey of in5’s start-ups past the AED9bn 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.”

in5 funding

Founded in 2013 by TECOM Group PJSC, curator of 10 specialised business districts across Dubai, in5 has supported more than 1,100 start-ups spanning technology, media, design, and science.

  • in5 Tech operates at Internet City
  • in5 Media at Dubai Production City
  • in5 Design at Dubai Design District (d3)
  • in5 Science, launched with Dubai Science Park, focuses on emerging science-led enterprises

At Expand North Star 2025, in5 showcased several ecosystem ventures, including:

  • Bellboy, an AI-powered SaaS platform automating hospitality operations
  • Gainz, which connects retail investors and institutions to vetted debt-financing opportunities
  • MyGatePass, a digital platform transforming visitor management through UAE PASS integration

in5’s continued success reinforces the emirate’s status as a global innovation hub and its strategic support for entrepreneurship under the Economic Agenda D33 — a plan to double the size of the emirate’s economy over the next decade.

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