February 11 - 12, 2020Dubai Internet City
DUBAI 2025
DUBAI
2025
Keep an eye out for updates and final agenda
Explore how GCC markets can complement each other to form a unified, dynamic startup ecosystem, tapping into MENA’s unique opportunities.…
Explore how GCC markets can complement each other to form a unified, dynamic startup ecosystem, tapping into MENA’s unique opportunities. This session will highlight lessons from 2024’s expansion, the role of visa reforms in fostering entrepreneurship, strategies for overcoming regulatory hurdles, and the power of country partnerships to drive cross-border collaboration and market growth. The focus will shift from dividing markets to growing the pie and building synergies across the region.
Explore the impact of mental health on founder performance, and how investor-backed support for founder wellness can lead to greater…
Explore the impact of mental health on founder performance, and how investor-backed support for founder wellness can lead to greater resilience and long-term success. Discuss actionable steps for prioritizing health amid high-stakes growth.
Overview of DLD's initiatives, including the Real Estate Innovation Incubator, and vision for Proptech in Dubai.
As digital advertising grows more complex, AI is revolutionizing programmatic strategies—optimizing media buying, automating decision-making, and improving cost efficiency. This…
As digital advertising grows more complex, AI is revolutionizing programmatic strategies—optimizing media buying, automating decision-making, and improving cost efficiency. This panel explores how AI enhances bidding algorithms, fraud detection, and campaign scalability, helping advertisers achieve better performance while navigating an evolving ad tech ecosystem.
Virtual banking solutions and their role in enhancing SME financial operations.
Premium content is reshaping digital advertising, offering brands deeper engagement and innovative ad formats. This session explores how Shahid is…
Premium content is reshaping digital advertising, offering brands deeper engagement and innovative ad formats. This session explores how Shahid is leading this transformation, showcasing successful campaigns and data-driven strategies that maximize ad performance. Experts will discuss the power of premium content in driving brand impact and the future of advertising in the streaming era.
Discover how startups can leverage debt financing as a strategic tool for growth. This session will demystify the process, from…
Discover how startups can leverage debt financing as a strategic tool for growth. This session will demystify the process, from understanding when debt is the right option to identifying the best sources and structuring agreements. Learn from experts and founders who have successfully utilized debt financing to scale their businesses while maintaining equity control. Gain practical insights into navigating lender relationships, managing risks, and optimizing financial health for sustainable expansion.
Success stories of Proptech startups that have scaled in Dubai. Challenges unique to the region and how startups overcame them.…
Success stories of Proptech startups that have scaled in Dubai. Challenges unique to the region and how startups overcame them. Advice for new entrants looking to break into the UAE real estate market.
A great co-founder can make or break your startup. In this session, Antler will help you discover the process of…
A great co-founder can make or break your startup. In this session, Antler will help you discover the process of finding the perfect partner to build your business with. Learn how to assess compatibility, identify complementary skills, and forge a strong, successful partnership. With Antler’s expertise, you’ll gain practical strategies to find the right co-founder and set your startup on the path to success.
As AI continues to transform industries globally, MENA-based VCs are stepping up to ensure the region doesn’t miss the opportunity.…
As AI continues to transform industries globally, MENA-based VCs are stepping up to ensure the region doesn’t miss the opportunity. This session delves into how venture capitalists in MENA are identifying and supporting AI-driven startups, aligning with global trends while addressing regional needs. Hear from leading investors about their strategies, success stories, and the challenges of navigating the competitive AI funding landscape. Explore how MENA can position itself as a hub for AI innovation and investment.
AI is revolutionizing ad personalization, driving deeper engagement and higher conversions. This panel explores how AI-powered targeting, predictive analytics, and…
AI is revolutionizing ad personalization, driving deeper engagement and higher conversions. This panel explores how AI-powered targeting, predictive analytics, and real-time optimization are reshaping digital advertising—while tackling the balance between personalization and privacy.
Shoppable ads are redefining the content-to-commerce experience. This fireside chat explores how Shahid and Samsung Ads are enabling seamless purchasing…
Shoppable ads are redefining the content-to-commerce experience. This fireside chat explores how Shahid and Samsung Ads are enabling seamless purchasing through interactive, measurable ad formats on CTV, unlocking new market opportunities for brands.
Explore how innovative payment solutions are streamlining SMB operations and improving customer experiences.Discuss the challenges of scaling payments infrastructure across…
Explore how innovative payment solutions are streamlining SMB operations and improving customer experiences.Discuss the challenges of scaling payments infrastructure across regional and global markets.Highlight the role of buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) and real-time payment systems in SMB growth.
The Levant region is undergoing significant changes, creating new opportunities for startups and the tech ecosystem in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan…
The Levant region is undergoing significant changes, creating new opportunities for startups and the tech ecosystem in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Palestine. This session will highlight emerging sectors such as fintech, AI and SaaS, agritech, and digital infrastructure, as well as the role of the diaspora in fostering innovation. Discussions will focus on Lebanon’s resilient entrepreneurial spirit, Syria’s rebuilding potential, and Palestine’s young, tech-savvy talent. Attendees will explore strategies to navigate regional challenges, such as infrastructure and regulatory hurdles, while leveraging accelerators, incubators, and sustainable partnerships to drive growth.
Key factors investors consider when funding Proptech startups. Emerging technologies in real estate attracting venture capital. How startups can position…
Key factors investors consider when funding Proptech startups. Emerging technologies in real estate attracting venture capital. How startups can position themselves to secure funding.
Exploring how data and AI are revolutionizing the travel industry, this panel delves into personalized experiences, predictive insights, and the…
Exploring how data and AI are revolutionizing the travel industry, this panel delves into personalized experiences, predictive insights, and the future of tailored journeys for travelers worldwide.
Great marketing is both an art and a science. As algorithms shape content distribution and performance metrics, creativity remains the…
Great marketing is both an art and a science. As algorithms shape content distribution and performance metrics, creativity remains the driving force behind compelling campaigns. This panel explores how brands and marketers can blend data-driven insights with bold storytelling, leveraging AI-powered tools without losing the human touch. Discover how to strike the perfect balance between analytical precision and creative ingenuity in today’s digital landscape.
Explore the evolving role of Connected TVs and AdTech in reshaping advertising. Predictions for audience engagement trends and emerging technologies.
This session will highlight the opportunities Dubai offers startups, whether they are looking to establish or expand in the region.…
This session will highlight the opportunities Dubai offers startups, whether they are looking to establish or expand in the region. Representatives from the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy will share insights on the startup ecosystem, available support, and key advantages of setting up in Dubai. Startups will gain a clear understanding of Dubai’s business landscape, the benefits of operating in the region, and the support available to help them grow.
10 startups from REES program will be pitching on stage
A Fireside Chat with Hans Christensen, Vice President and Manager, Dtec2025 is officially the Year of Community in the UAE,…
A Fireside Chat with Hans Christensen, Vice President and Manager, Dtec2025 is officially the Year of Community in the UAE, something that Dtec has championed since its inception. Join Hans Christensen as he spills the secrets behind building a buzzing startup hub, where founders learn from each other, connect with mentors, and spark new ideas every day.
Data is the backbone of modern advertising, powering smarter decision-making and strategic campaign execution. This panel dives into how big…
Data is the backbone of modern advertising, powering smarter decision-making and strategic campaign execution. This panel dives into how big data is revolutionizing market research, audience behavior analysis, and performance measurement. Experts will explore how businesses can harness vast data streams to refine targeting strategies, predict trends, and drive more effective ad placements in an increasingly competitive digital space.
Elie Khouri, Founder and Chairman of Vivium, joins investor and podcaster Loulou Khazen for an exclusive fireside chat at Step.…
Elie Khouri, Founder and Chairman of Vivium, joins investor and podcaster Loulou Khazen for an exclusive fireside chat at Step. From building one of the region’s most successful media empires to shaping the future of investment and design through Vivium, Elie has been at the forefront of industry evolution. This conversation will explore Elie’s journey into venture capital, the transformative power of AI, and his deep connection to art as a collector. As a judge on Shark Tank Dubai, Elie has a unique perspective on what it takes to back the next wave of game-changing startups.
Discover how MMS leverages strategic partnerships with platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Google to redefine digital advertising. This discussion…
Discover how MMS leverages strategic partnerships with platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Google to redefine digital advertising. This discussion will highlight how these collaborations drive brand reach, engagement, and measurable results, showcasing success stories from the MENA region.
B2A (Business to Agent), C2A (Consumer to Agent), and A2A (Agent to Agent) are transforming industries. Silicon Valley VC and…
B2A (Business to Agent), C2A (Consumer to Agent), and A2A (Agent to Agent) are transforming industries. Silicon Valley VC and AI event organizer Jeremiah Owyang will present the emerging business models driven by AI agents. He’ll outline a practical framework, provide real-world examples, share a market forecast, and take audience questions. As a partner at Step in San Francisco, Jeremiah will also discuss how startups and companies can bridge from MENA to SF and Silicon Valley.
If attention is currency, how do startups, brands, and companies break through the noise? The answer: creators. In this session,…
If attention is currency, how do startups, brands, and companies break through the noise? The answer: creators. In this session, Uptin reveals the the blueprint for crafting high-impact social videos that don’t just go viral—but actually convert. From leveraging creator-led storytelling to data-driven content strategies, discover how to maximize engagement, build trust, and drive actual business results. Whether you're a startup looking to scale or a brand aiming for impact, this talk will give you the tools to win on social.
How cloud giants are helping UAE drive AI adoption in enterprises.
Dive into the evolving role of incubators, accelerators and enablers in fostering next-gen startups. This session will highlight how enablers…
Dive into the evolving role of incubators, accelerators and enablers in fostering next-gen startups. This session will highlight how enablers provide critical resources, mentorship, and networks to empower early-stage founders. Explore success stories, emerging trends in incubation programs, and how these hubs are driving innovation, addressing market gaps, and preparing startups for sustainable growth in a competitive landscape.
Efficient cash flow management is vital for small and medium businesses navigating the B2B landscape. This panel explores cutting-edge fintech…
Efficient cash flow management is vital for small and medium businesses navigating the B2B landscape. This panel explores cutting-edge fintech tools designed to simplify payments, optimize invoicing, and enhance financial transparency. Learn how these solutions are driving growth and resilience for SMBs.
Augmented Reality is revolutionizing digital advertising, transforming passive audiences into active participants. In this session, Snap will unveil a real-world…
Augmented Reality is revolutionizing digital advertising, transforming passive audiences into active participants. In this session, Snap will unveil a real-world AR success story and explore strategies for seamlessly integrating AR into ad campaigns to maximize engagement and brand impact. Discover how AR-driven advertising is redefining consumer experiences and shaping the future of digital marketing.
Interactive workshop designed to empower startup founders and early-stage teams with the tools, strategies, and insights to build a strong…
Interactive workshop designed to empower startup founders and early-stage teams with the tools, strategies, and insights to build a strong brand presence and leverage PR for growth. From crafting a brand story to mastering media relations, this session blends actionable theory with hands-on exercises to help founders position their startups for success.
As the AI landscape rapidly evolves, the debate between proprietary foundational models and open-source frameworks is intensifying. This session will…
As the AI landscape rapidly evolves, the debate between proprietary foundational models and open-source frameworks is intensifying. This session will explore the strengths and limitations of both approaches in shaping the future of AI. From the scalability of large, proprietary models developed by industry giants to the flexibility and community-driven innovation of open-source solutions, we'll examine how each model is influencing AI development, deployment, and accessibility. Join experts in discussing the future of AI, and how businesses can navigate this landscape to drive innovation while balancing performance, security, and ethical considerations.
Showcasing Dubai as a launchpad for global Proptech companies entering the MENA region.
In the world of startups, success is rarely achieved alone. Ecosystems like Hub71 create vibrant communities that empower founders to…
In the world of startups, success is rarely achieved alone. Ecosystems like Hub71 create vibrant communities that empower founders to scale their businesses through collaboration, mentorship, and shared experiences. This panel will highlight the transformative power of a strong community in overcoming challenges, accessing resources, and building global connections.
Generative AI is rapidly evolving, with the capabilities of chatbots expanding far beyond simple text-based interactions. This session will explore…
Generative AI is rapidly evolving, with the capabilities of chatbots expanding far beyond simple text-based interactions. This session will explore the next frontier of generative AI, where multimodal applications combine text, voice, images, and video to create richer, more immersive experiences. Hear from experts about the breakthroughs in AI models and their potential to revolutionize industries like healthcare, education, entertainment, and more. Understand how these technologies are reshaping user interactions and opening new opportunities for businesses worldwide.
Governance evolves as startups grow. This session will provide tailored insights for seed and Series A startups on building effective…
Governance evolves as startups grow. This session will provide tailored insights for seed and Series A startups on building effective boards, managing investor relations, and establishing governance practices that align with their growth stage. Learn how to lay a strong foundation for scaling responsibly.
With fintech innovations rapidly transforming the market, how can SMBs stay ahead? This session uncovers niche trends like embedded finance,…
With fintech innovations rapidly transforming the market, how can SMBs stay ahead? This session uncovers niche trends like embedded finance, alternative lending, and sector-specific tools to help small businesses thrive. Learn from industry leaders on adapting to these trends and building resilience in a fast-paced digital economy.
Join us for an insightful masterclass tailored for founders and investors on the path to Series A. Explore key fundraising…
Join us for an insightful masterclass tailored for founders and investors on the path to Series A. Explore key fundraising trends, hear legal insights from Simmons & Simmons, and learn how Carta's tools can support fundraising journeys. Refine your strategy, connect with industry leaders, and gain the knowledge to secure your next investment round.
Examples of how leading companies have adopted PropTech across the whole lifecycle of assets to drive competitiveness and efficiencies
An insightful fireside chat with Blake Beltram, Mindbody Founder and Beltram Consulting, as he shares his journey of building and…
An insightful fireside chat with Blake Beltram, Mindbody Founder and Beltram Consulting, as he shares his journey of building and scaling one of the world’s leading wellness technology platforms. From early-stage challenges to global expansion, Blake will dive into the key lessons, pivotal moments, and strategic decisions that shaped Mindbody’s success. Moderated by Nayla Tueni, CEO of AN-Nahar Media Group, this conversation will uncover Blake’s entrepreneurial insights, leadership philosophy, and perspectives on innovation in the wellness and tech industries.
This interactive workshop empowers participants to use marketing automation to analyze ad campaign performance and implement workflows that enhance engagement…
This interactive workshop empowers participants to use marketing automation to analyze ad campaign performance and implement workflows that enhance engagement and conversions. Attendees will gain hands-on experience in building automated sequences, integrating CRM systems, and leveraging actionable data insights. As part of the AdTech 2.0 theme, the session highlights how automation can make advertising strategies smarter, more efficient, and scalable.
How open banking is allowing SMEs to leverage fintech tools for enhanced financial management.
The cloud is the backbone of AI's growth and integration. This session will explore how cloud platforms are enabling AI…
The cloud is the backbone of AI's growth and integration. This session will explore how cloud platforms are enabling AI advancements by offering the scalability, flexibility, and resources needed to power autonomous industries. Experts from companies like Nvidia, Falcon Abu Dhabi, and DEWA will discuss the role of cloud infrastructure in supporting AI systems and enabling governments and enterprises to build AI-driven ecosystems.
This session will cover practical strategies for building scalable startups in MENA, with a focus on early-stage challenges like team…
This session will cover practical strategies for building scalable startups in MENA, with a focus on early-stage challenges like team building, market validation, and securing strategic partnerships including VCs value creation to support entrepreneurs in successfully navigating the journey from seed stage to scaling ventures all the way to exits.
Highlighting the partnership dynamics between visionary founders and strategic investors.
Utilizing technology to enhance data accessibility and transparency in real estate. The importance of open data for investors, developers, and…
Utilizing technology to enhance data accessibility and transparency in real estate. The importance of open data for investors, developers, and homebuyers.Tools and platforms providing insights into Dubai’s real estate trends.
As AI continues to reshape industries, seamless integration becomes key to unlocking its full potential. This session delves into the…
As AI continues to reshape industries, seamless integration becomes key to unlocking its full potential. This session delves into the transformative role of AI in driving innovation and enabling autonomous processes across sectors. Join industry leaders as they explore cutting-edge advancements, integration strategies, and the impact of AI on efficiency, productivity, and innovation in a rapidly evolving landscape.
As businesses expand across borders, managing finances for global teams has become more complex. This panel will discuss innovative fintech…
As businesses expand across borders, managing finances for global teams has become more complex. This panel will discuss innovative fintech solutions that simplify cross-border payments, payroll, and expense management. Hear from experts on how technology is bridging gaps, improving efficiency, and empowering teams worldwide.
AI is transforming the way supply chains operate, providing businesses with unprecedented levels of efficiency, resilience, and agility. This session…
AI is transforming the way supply chains operate, providing businesses with unprecedented levels of efficiency, resilience, and agility. This session will explore how AI-powered solutions are optimizing logistics, enhancing forecasting, and improving decision-making in global supply chains. Learn how AI tools are enabling companies to better manage inventory, predict demand, reduce waste, and respond to disruptions in real time. With insights from industry leaders, discover how AI is shaping the future of global markets by driving smarter, more sustainable, and more resilient supply chain strategies.
The global economy is shifting, and with it, the dynamics of venture capital. This session examines how liquidity challenges, fluctuating…
The global economy is shifting, and with it, the dynamics of venture capital. This session examines how liquidity challenges, fluctuating interest rates, and macroeconomic trends are reshaping the VC space. Gain insights from investors and industry leaders on adapting funding strategies, managing risk, and identifying opportunities in a constrained capital environment. Explore what these changes mean for startups seeking investment and how the ecosystem can remain resilient in uncertain times.
Proptech innovations simplifying real estate financing. Platforms facilitating access to financing tools through partnerships, and emerging trends in real estate…
Proptech innovations simplifying real estate financing. Platforms facilitating access to financing tools through partnerships, and emerging trends in real estate investment.
While MENA offers a fertile ground for startups, what does it take to expand into global markets such as the…
While MENA offers a fertile ground for startups, what does it take to expand into global markets such as the US? This session will feature companies that have successfully grown beyond the region, sharing strategies, challenges, and opportunities in scaling their operations internationally.
Address the unique challenges of scaling fintech solutions in emerging markets.Discuss funding, customer acquisition, and partnerships as critical drivers of…
Address the unique challenges of scaling fintech solutions in emerging markets.Discuss funding, customer acquisition, and partnerships as critical drivers of growth.Highlight the importance of adapting solutions to local market needs and infrastructure.
Over the 2 days of the event 30 startups pitched and only 3 made it to the final round. Join…
Over the 2 days of the event 30 startups pitched and only 3 made it to the final round. Join in to know who will be crowned winner of Step Dubai 2025's Pitch Competition.
As large language models (LLMs) become increasingly integrated into our digital landscape, trust and accountability are paramount. This session will…
As large language models (LLMs) become increasingly integrated into our digital landscape, trust and accountability are paramount. This session will explore strategies for ensuring transparency in AI systems, addressing concerns around bias, and fostering accountability in AI development and deployment. Learn from industry experts about best practices for designing AI systems that are fair, ethical, and trustworthy, and how to implement effective bias mitigation techniques in LLMs to build confidence among users and stakeholders.
A deep dive into life after acquisition for startups, discussing how founders navigate changes in company culture, manage staff expectations,…
A deep dive into life after acquisition for startups, discussing how founders navigate changes in company culture, manage staff expectations, and create value within a larger corporation.
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