Dubai’s entrepreneurial landscape is witnessing a historic milestone as start-ups nurtured by the city’s leading incubator, in5, have raised over AED 9 billion since its inception. This achievement marks a 14% growth compared to October 2024, reflecting the success of Dubai’s pro-innovation policies and the robust support provided to early-stage ventures.
Expanding the Start-up Ecosystem
Founded in 2013 by TECOM Group PJSC, in5 has supported more than 1,100 start-ups across four sector-specific verticals: technology, media, design, and science. The incubator operates from key hubs including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Design District (d3), and Dubai Science Park, offering tailored support to each sector.
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The first half of 2025 saw 94 events hosted by in5, covering mentorship, advisory sessions, training, and networking opportunities, helping start-ups accelerate their growth and attract investors.
Spotlight on Innovative Ventures
At the Expand North Star 2025 event in Dubai Harbour, in5 showcased its thriving ecosystem. Start-ups like Bellboy, an AI-powered hospitality platform; Gainz, a financial investment matchmaking solution; and MyGatePass, transforming visitor management, demonstrated the incubator’s diverse and impactful innovations.
The year has already witnessed notable funding successes:
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Halo AI secured AED 22 million in a seed round.
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Wittify AI raised AED 5.5 million pre-seed for Arabic conversational AI.
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Armoir attracted AED 1.8 million to disrupt the premium luggage market.
A Platform for Growth and Investment
in5 continues to foster a fertile environment for start-ups by offering access to mentorship, advisory, and funding opportunities. Its Investor Hub connects entrepreneurs with angel investors, venture capitalists, and institutional partners, enabling meaningful collaborations and scalable growth.
With Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’ supporting innovation, in5’s ecosystem is actively shaping the next generation of visionary entrepreneurs, cementing Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for start-ups and technology-led growth.
