in5 Startup Incubator Secures AED 9 Billion in Funding, Fueling UAE's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Dubai's in5 business incubator has announced that startups in its ecosystem have raised over 9 billion dirhams in total funding since the program launched. This milestone strengthens Dubai's position as a global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, with funding growing 14% compared to October 2024.

The announcement came during the tenth edition of Expand North Star 2025 at Dubai Harbour, running from October 12-15. in5, which operates under the Tecom Group, has supported more than 1,100 startups since its founding in 2013.

Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President of Tecom Group, said this achievement reflects the incubator's leading role in empowering entrepreneurs and accelerating their business growth. The results align with Dubai's Economic Agenda D33, the emirate's plan to become one of the world's top three economic cities by 2033.

The startups span multiple sectors including technology, media, design, and sciences. in5 regularly organizes events to provide training, mentorship, and expand investor networks for its member companies.

At the Expand North Star exhibition, the incubator is showcasing innovative companies like Bell Boy, My Gate Pass, and Jeans. These startups represent the success of Dubai's entrepreneurship ecosystem and demonstrate how the city has become an attractive destination for tech talent and venture capital.

Dubai's startup scene has benefited from the UAE's business-friendly policies, strategic location between East and West, and government initiatives supporting innovation. The 9 billion dirham funding milestone shows international investors see real value in Dubai-based startups, particularly as the region positions itself as a technology and financial services hub.

For the broader Middle East startup ecosystem, Dubai's success creates a ripple effect. Other regional cities are watching closely and trying to replicate similar incubator models to attract entrepreneurs and venture capital funding.