Dubai: Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE, has opened Expand North Star 2023. It is the world’s largest exhibition and conference for startups, organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
The event, being held from October 15–18 at the Dubai Harbour, is hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy (DCDE), one of three chambers operating under the umbrella of the Dubai Chamber.
Sheikh Maktoum stated that the organization of Expand North Star 2023 reflects the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into one of the world’s leading digital economies, strengthen its competitiveness across the global market, and boost the digital economy’s contribution to the emirate’s economy.
“We firmly believe in the potential of our national talent to fuel the growth of the digital economy and enhance Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for digital innovation, all while contributing to the development of innovative technology and AI-based solutions,” Sheikh Maktoum said.
“With the digital economy constituting a crucial pillar of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), this event aligns with our commitment to create new economic value through digital transformation, with an anticipated annual value of AED100 billion ($27 billion). This endeavor consolidates Dubai’s standing as a global hub for the digital economy and a significant player in the global digital landscape,” Sheikh Maktoum further added.
Expand North Star 2023 has attracted participation from over 1,800 startups representing more than 100 countries, along with the presence of over 1,000 investors collectively managing assets totaling over $1 trillion.