Latest news with #StepDubai
Zawya
02-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
High-level delegations from Europe explore innovation and digital partnerships with Dubai Internet City
TECOM Group's business district reaffirms its vital role in accelerating tech-led growth through strategic discussions on nurturing globally meaningful innovation Dubai, UAE: Dubai Internet City, the region's leading tech hub and the home of artificial intelligence (AI) pioneers from around the world, conducted high-level meetings with dignitaries and officials from Europe to further cement its role in building bridges between international tech businesses and talent. Held recently including on the side-lines of Step Dubai, which was organised in strategic partnership with Dubai Internet City, one of TECOM Group PJSC's 10 vibrant business districts, the engagements with leaders and partners from Russia, Luxembourg, Poland, and Turkey covered a range of discussions on enabling future-proof digital development. 'Aligned with Dubai's visionary strategies to nurture globally meaningful innovation, Dubai Internet City is actively nurturing and strengthening valuable connections between global technology leaders,' said Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City. 'Welcoming global dignitaries, business leaders, and start-up talent to our community, we upheld Dubai Internet City's legacy of facilitating crucial dialogues and partnerships to shape the future of technology. Aligned with Dubai Economic Agenda 'D33', our thriving ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship is committed to strengthening Dubai's knowledge economy.' Dubai Internet City welcomed a Russian delegation headed by Gleb Nikitin, Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region and including Alexander Sinelobov, Minister of Digital Development of the Nizhny Novgorod Region of the Russian Federation, to discuss pathways to deliver meaningful impact in the tech industry. The district hosted His Excellency the Ambassador of Luxembourg, Robert Lauer, to discuss enabling digital transformation for long-term prosperity and unlocking growth through technological innovation. Building on an agreement signed during GITEX Global in 2023, Dubai Internet City also hosted a delegation of Polish start-ups and innovators, led by the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH), to nurture the exchange of ideas and expertise between both communities. Dubai Internet City also recently hosted senior officials as part of a delegation led by Onur Saylan, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Dubai and the Northern Emirates to explore opportunities for mutual growth and partnerships. Dubai Internet City's AED 100 billion contribution to the city's GDP over the past 15 years was unveiled during Step Dubai as part of a newly launched impact assessment report prepared in partnership with Accenture. The Dubai Internet City – Impact Assessment study quantifies the digital economy contributions of the region's leading tech hub, which today generates 65% of Dubai's technology sector GDP and is home to 4,000 customers, including multinational giants, Fortune 500s, and start-ups, as well as more than 31,000 professionals. Dubai Internet City has championed the digital economy's growth since its inception more than 25 years ago and is the address of global industry leaders, including AI pioneers such as Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Visa. Dubai Internet City is part of TECOM Group's portfolio of 10 sector-specific business districts, which also includes Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Industrial City, and Dubai Design District (d3). About Dubai Internet City Dubai Internet City, one of TECOM Group PJSC's 10 business districts, is the cornerstone of the dynamic regional digital economy. The pioneering hub has fostered the growth of more than 4,000 businesses and a vibrant community of 31,000 professionals since its establishment in 1999. Driving innovation across diverse sectors, Dubai Internet City has served as a strategic uniting platform for multinational firms, Fortune 500 leaders, and agile start-ups for 25 years by enabling collaboration, cutting-edge advancements, and sustained growth. For more information, please visit
Zawya
20-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Her Excellency Alia bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei opens 13th edition of Step Dubai at Dubai Internet City
Dubai, UAE: Her Excellency Alia bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, officially opened the 13th annual edition of Step Dubai yesterday at Dubai Internet City, part of TECOM Group PJSC. Her Excellency Alia bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei toured Step Dubai, the heartbeat of tech in the Middle East held in Strategic Partnership with Dubai Internet City, in the presence of senior officials including Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Executive Officer of TECOM Group; Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City; and Ray Dargham, CEO of Step, in addition to dignitaries from the regional technology sector. 'Entrepreneurship is the bedrock of meaningful and impactful innovation that supports long-term economic growth,' said Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City. 'Step Dubai promises invaluable insights into a future shaped by technology for the region's budding entrepreneurs. As Strategic Partner of the event, Dubai Internet City is building on its legacy of uniting brilliant minds from around the world driving tech-led innovation, in line with Dubai Economic Agenda 'D33'.' A major milestone of the opening day was the announcement of Step's continued global expansion with the introduction of Step Istanbul - its first Host Partner Event - on 12 May, followed by the return of Step San Francisco on 20 August. These international events mark a new chapter for the Dubai-born brand and will take Step's unique blend of event experience to new markets and audiences. During the official opening ceremony, Step co-founder and CEO Ray Dargham said: "Step has always been about creating opportunities for founders, investors, and innovators to connect and grow. With our hosting model, we are taking this vision above and beyond, allowing different partners to bring Step to their markets with our full support. This is an exciting step forward in our journey to becoming a truly global platform for the tech ecosystem." Expanding on its successful hosting model launched last year, Step enables global event organisers to bring its signature experience to new markets. The model provides local organisers with full backing from Step's Dubai team, including training, programming support, production expertise, sponsorship data, event tools, and brand assets—ensuring high-quality events while maintaining Step's signature experience and impact. Over the past 13 years, Step has hosted thousands of startups and this year, Step Dubai 2025 is welcoming more than 8,000 attendees, 200 speakers, and providing a platform to access an impressive $9 billion USD in funding. With five dynamic thematic tracks highlighting the impact of future tech trends across a range of industries, Step Dubai is reinforcing its position as the foremost platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth. The Founders & Funders track promises insights on scaling and funding start-ups in the MENA region, while AdTech 2.0 explores the future of advertising as artificial intelligence (AI) and programmatic influence campaigns. The AI Agents, LLMs & Cloud track explores the future of cloud infrastructure, AI agents, and large language models, while FinTech for SMBs will delve into solutions to streamline operations and boost efficiencies for small- and medium-sized businesses. Step Dubai also includes a new PropTech track with the aim of strengthening tech-enabled advancements in Dubai's urban environment. A cohort of start-ups from in5, TECOM Group's entrepreneurship incubator, is participating at Step Dubai, including unified IT management and device platform, Zenadmin and PropTech specialist, Estaie. Dubai Internet City is part of TECOM Group's portfolio of 10 sector-specific business districts, which also includes Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Industrial City, and Dubai Design District (d3). To register your interest in partner hosting potential visit Stay tuned for exciting updates live from Step Dubai 2025 on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube. -Ends- About Step Dubai Step Dubai, the Heartbeat of Tech in MENA, is held annually within the city's innovation and technology hub, Dubai Internet City. It marks the convergence of innovation, knowledge, and unique opportunities, uniting over 8,000 attendees, 400 pioneering startups, 100 companies, 9 billion USD of funding and more than 200 influential speakers. The festival serves as a nexus for entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and curious minds, fostering connections and collaborations in the ever-evolving domains of tech and entrepreneurship. Showcasing five dedicated tracks spanning various industries and an esteemed roster of experts, Step Dubai consistently provides an unrivalled experience each year, inviting exploration into the future of tech. For more information and to book tickets for Step Dubai 2025 from 19-20 February visit For media inquiries, please contact tryph@ / susan@ About Step Known for hosting epic startup events including Step Dubai, Step San Francisco and Step Riyadh, Step is a dynamic platform that ignites connections between startups, tech enthusiasts, and investors, fostering a thriving community, driving innovation, and creating real-world interactions. With a unique, founder-focused ethos, Step's events offer vibrant, community-driven experiences in a relaxed, festival-like atmosphere. Founders, investors, and brands come together for unparalleled networking opportunities, transformative insights, and genuine moments of collaboration and growth. Driven by a vision to expand globally and nurture startup ecosystems worldwide, Step is more than just an event organiser—it's a catalyst for change. About Dubai Internet City Dubai Internet City, one of TECOM Group PJSC's 10 business districts, is the cornerstone of the dynamic regional digital economy. The pioneering hub has fostered the growth of more than 4,000 businesses and a vibrant community of 31,000 professionals since its establishment in 1999. Driving innovation across diverse sectors, Dubai Internet City has served as a strategic uniting platform for multinational firms, Fortune 500 leaders, and agile start-ups for 25 years by enabling collaboration, cutting-edge advancements, and sustained growth. For more information, please visit
Zawya
07-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
STEP Dubai returns for 2025 edition at Dubai Internet City
Dubai, UAE – The countdown is on for Step Dubai 2025, the Heartbeat of Tech in MENA, which returns for its 13th edition on February 19-20, 2025 in strategic partnership with Dubai Internet City, the region's leading technology hub and one of TECOM Group PJSC's 10 business districts. This year's event is set to host over 8,000 attendees, 200+ speakers, and an impressive $9 billion USD in fund presence, solidifying Step Dubai's reputation as the leading platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth in the tech ecosystem. As Dubai Internet City marks 25 years of enabling the digital economy, this year's edition of Step Dubai features five new dynamic tracks designed to highlight the most transformative trends in technology. These include: Founders & Funders: Building successful startups and securing investment, bringing together founders, investors, and accelerators to share insights on scaling and funding in the MENA region. AdTech 2.0: The future of advertising, exploring how AI and programmatic technology are transforming ad campaigns, audience targeting, and brand safety. PropTech: Making its debut at Step Dubai 2025, hosted by Dubai Land Department, this track explores how innovative technologies are revolutionising real estate. From AI-driven property solutions to blockchain-powered transactions and development innovations, discover the future of urban living and investments. AI Agents, LLMs & Cloud: Exploring how AI is transforming industries, with a dedicated focus on cloud infrastructure, AI agents, and large language models (LLMs). This track provides a comprehensive exploration of the evolving landscape of AI technology, addressing both enterprise and cutting-edge innovations. FinTech for SMBs: Empowering small-to-medium businesses with fintech solutions that streamline financial processes, reduce costs, and improve cash flow management. The introduction of a dedicated PropTech track reflects Step Dubai's and Dubai Internet City's commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech-enablement across the urban environment. Through platforms such as its REES Initiative, Dubai Land Department is providing supportive infrastructure for such innovation to take shape in the real estate sector. Majida Ali Rashid, CEO of the Real Estate Development Sector at Dubai Land Department, said: 'Dubai's hosting of leading events such as 'Step Dubai 2025' reaffirms its position as a global hub for innovation and technology across various sectors, including real estate. The inclusion of a PropTech track in the event reflects the rapid advancement of Dubai's real estate sector, where technology has become a fundamental pillar in developing real estate services and enhancing the experience of investors and stakeholders.' She added:" Dubai Land Department is at the forefront of PropTech innovation, driven by its vision to create a fully integrated digital ecosystem that supports smart solutions. It also aligns with our strategy, under the recently launched REES initiative for real estate innovation, to position Dubai on the global map in PropTech and AI-driven real estate solutions and with our ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency and increase market transparency.' Commenting on the event, Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City, said: 'Entrepreneurs and innovators are the architects of a future enabled and enhanced by technology-led advancements. 'Each year, Step Dubai serves as a vital platform to unite such brilliant minds from around the world, and Dubai Internet City is upholding its 25-year legacy of fostering a collaborative environment for such talent to work, connect, and innovate at the event this year. Aligned with Dubai Economic Agenda 'D33', our ecosystem will champion enable meaningful connections, pathbreaking partnerships, and a nurturing environment for groundbreaking ideas to flourish at Step Dubai this year.' In this edition of Step Dubai, BIM Ventures joins as a Super Partner, adding significant value to the event's ecosystem. This year's event offers unparalleled opportunities for startups and innovators to connect with leading investors, venture capitalists, and industry decision-makers. Key highlights include The Startup Basecamp, Pitch Competition, powered by Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, Mentor's Corner, powered by SUMMIT OS and Investor Meetings, powered by Zest Equity. Attendees will hear from 200+ speakers, including industry leaders like Blake Beltram, Mindbody (parent company to Classpass), Mohsen Moazami (President International at Groq), Elie Khouri (Vivium Holding), Michael Lahyani (Property Finder), Anjali Aggarwal, Head of Business GCC, Noon Payments, James Wang, General Manager UAE, Alibaba Cloud, and more to be announced. Ray Dargham, CEO of Step, emphasised: "The global tech landscape is evolving rapidly, and AI is at its core. Step Dubai 2025 is embracing this transformation with our expanded AI track, positioning us at the forefront of this revolution. This year, we're all about fuelling the trailblazers and startups that are redefining tech's future and linking them with investors to tap into massive capital." Alongside Dubai Internet City, a dynamic cohort of disruptive startups from in5, TECOM Group's entrepreneurship incubator, will attend Step Dubai 2025. Among those in attendance will be planning app Lika; unified IT management and device platform, Zenadmin; custom perfume design studio, Parfumery; and PropTech specialist, Estaie. The innovative enterprises are among the community of more than 1,000 startups that have raised over AED 7.8 billion in funding since in5's inception in 2013. Step Dubai 2025 will take place at Dubai Internet City, a vibrant community that has enabled the region's digital transformation for more than 25 years and is home to more than 4,000 customers, including multinational corporations, start-ups, and Fortune 500s such as Microsoft, Google, and Nvidia, in addition to more than 31,000 professionals. Dubai Internet City is part of TECOM Group's portfolio of business destinations, which also includes Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Industrial City, and Dubai Design District (d3). Tickets Now Available Tickets for Step Dubai 2025 are now available for purchase here, while startups can submit their applications here. Stay tuned for exciting updates as Step Dubai 2025 draws closer. Learn more here and follow Step Dubai on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube to stay in the loop. About Step Dubai Step Dubai, the Heartbeat of Tech in MENA, is held annually within the city's innovation and technology hub, Dubai Internet City. It marks the convergence of innovation, knowledge, and unique opportunities, uniting over 8,000 attendees, 400 pioneering startups, 100 companies, 9 billion USD of funding and more than 200 influential speakers. The festival serves as a nexus for entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and curious minds, fostering connections and collaborations in the ever-evolving domains of tech and entrepreneurship. Showcasing five dedicated tracks spanning various industries and an esteemed roster of experts, Step Dubai consistently provides an unrivalled experience each year, inviting exploration into the future of tech. For more information and to book tickets for Step Dubai 2025 from 19-20 February visit For media inquiries, please contact tryph@ / susan@ About Step Known for hosting epic startup events including Step Dubai, Step San Francisco and Step Riyadh, Step is a dynamic platform that ignites connections between startups, tech enthusiasts, and investors, fostering a thriving community, driving innovation, and creating real-world interactions. With a unique, founder-focused ethos, Step's events offer vibrant, community-driven experiences in a relaxed, festival-like atmosphere. Founders, investors, and brands come together for unparalleled networking opportunities, transformative insights, and genuine moments of collaboration and growth. Driven by a vision to expand globally and nurture startup ecosystems worldwide, Step is more than just an event organiser—it's a catalyst for change. About Dubai Internet City Dubai Internet City, one of TECOM Group PJSC's 10 business districts, is the cornerstone of the dynamic regional digital economy. The pioneering hub has fostered the growth of more than 4,000 businesses and a vibrant community of 31,000 professionals since its establishment in 1999. Driving innovation across diverse sectors, Dubai Internet City has served as a strategic uniting platform for multinational firms, Fortune 500 leaders, and agile start-ups for 25 years by enabling collaboration, cutting-edge advancements, and sustained growth. For more information, please visit
Emirates 24/7
07-02-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Step Dubai 2025 returns to Dubai Internet City with five new tracks, highlighting PropTech innovation
Step Dubai, the MENA region's leading technology conference, is set to return for its 13th edition on February 19-20, 2025, in strategic partnership with Dubai Internet City, the region's premier technology hub and part of TECOM Group PJSC. This year's edition is poised to welcome over 8,000 attendees, 200+ speakers, and an impressive $9 billion USD in fund presence, reinforcing Step Dubai's position as the foremost platform for innovation, collaboration, and investment in the tech ecosystem. As Dubai Internet City marks 25 years of fostering digital transformation, Step Dubai 2025 introduces five new thematic tracks that explore the most impactful trends shaping the future of technology: Founders & Funders – A hub for startup founders, investors, and accelerators to discuss strategies for scaling and securing funding in the MENA region. AdTech 2.0 – A deep dive into AI-driven advertising, programmatic technology, audience targeting, and brand safety. PropTech – Debuting in partnership with Dubai Land Department, this track highlights AI-powered real estate solutions, blockchain transactions, and smart urban development. AI Agents, LLMs & Cloud – A comprehensive exploration of AI's impact on industries, cloud infrastructure, and large language models. FinTech for SMBs – Insights into fintech solutions that enhance financial management for small and medium-sized businesses. The PropTech track underscores Dubai Internet City's and Dubai Land Department's commitment to advancing real estate technology. The REES Initiative by Dubai Land Department further reinforces Dubai's role as a global PropTech hub by promoting smart real estate solutions and AI-driven services. Majida Ali Rashid, CEO of the Real Estate Development Sector at Dubai Land Department, stated: 'Dubai's position as a global innovation hub is reaffirmed through leading events like Step Dubai 2025. The introduction of a PropTech track reflects the rapid digitization of the real estate sector, where technology plays a fundamental role in enhancing services, transparency, and investor experience. Dubai Land Department remains at the forefront of PropTech advancement, aligning with our vision to create an integrated digital ecosystem.' Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City, added: 'Entrepreneurs and innovators are driving the future of technology. Step Dubai 2025 continues to be a platform that unites visionary minds, while Dubai Internet City, celebrating 25 years of empowering the digital economy, remains committed to fostering a collaborative environment for groundbreaking ideas. Aligned with Dubai's Economic Agenda D33, our ecosystem will support meaningful connections, strategic partnerships, and transformative innovations.' This year, BIM Ventures joins Step Dubai 2025 as a Super Partner, enhancing the event's networking opportunities. Highlights include The Startup Basecamp, Pitch Competition, Mentor's Corner, and Investor Meetings, offering entrepreneurs direct access to global investors and venture capitalists. Industry leaders set to speak include Blake Beltram (Mindbody, parent company of Classpass), Mohsen Moazami (Groq), Elie Khouri (Vivium Holding), Michael Lahyani (Property Finder), Anjali Aggarwal (Noon Payments), James Wang (Alibaba Cloud), and more. Ray Dargham, CEO of Step, emphasized: 'The global tech landscape is rapidly evolving, with AI at its core. Step Dubai 2025 is embracing this transformation by expanding its AI-focused track, creating opportunities for startups and investors to drive the next wave of innovation.' A dynamic group of startups from in5, TECOM Group's entrepreneurship incubator, will also participate, including Lika (planning app), Zenadmin (IT management platform), Parfumery (custom perfume design studio), and Estaie (PropTech specialist). These ventures are part of a broader in5 community that has collectively raised over AED 7.8 billion since 2013. Step Dubai 2025 Venue & Registration Step Dubai 2025 will take place at Dubai Internet City, home to over 4,000 businesses and 31,000 professionals, including global technology leaders such as Microsoft, Google, and Nvidia. Tickets are now available for purchase, and startups can submit their applications here. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
