Step Dubai 2025 to mark 13th year of empowering start-ups and innovators in the MENA Region

• Step Dubai 2025, a leading start-up conference in the MENA region, will make a return on 19-20 February 2025.
• Scheduled to take place at the Dubai Internet City, the event will host over 8,000 attendees, 200 speakers, and 400 start-ups from 50 countries globally.
• Attendees can expect start-up showcases and pitch competitions, with participation from top delegations worldwide, including those from Silicon Valley.

Step is an annual technology and start-up innovation conference, celebrated as the leading event in the MENA region. Launched in 2011 by Ray Dargham, it began as a small gathering of 100 attendees in 2012 and has since grown into a global platform for technology and entrepreneurship. Supported by its official partner, Dubai Internet City, Step is organised by Step Group, which also runs Stepfeed. Indeed, Step has been integral in fuelling Dubai’s dynamic start-up ecosystem — a vital element of the city’s multi-billion-dollar innovation economy.

This article is part of a series that discusses the Step conference’s overall importance to the start-up ecosystem in the MENA region and across the globe. In this first instalment, we’ll focus on Step’s impact on Dubai’s business environment and what attendees can experience from the 2025 summit.

Key highlights of Step Dubai 2025

Step Dubai 2025 is scheduled to take place from 19-20 February 2025, at Dubai Internet City. With over 8,000 attendees, 200 speakers, 400 start-ups, and 100 participating companies, this year’s conference is purportedly organised to be another dynamic edition. Notably, start-ups featured at Step have collectively secured more than $8.2 billion in funding, emphasising the event’s impact on the global innovation landscape.

Exclusive opportunities for multinational start-ups

Start-ups participating in Step Dubai 2025 can engage with top venture capitalists (VCs), investors, and mentors through specialised programmes such as:

• Start-up Basecamp – a platform for start-ups to showcase their products and services;
• Pitch competitions – the opportunity for start-ups to present their ideas to leading investors and industry experts;
• Mentor’s corner – personalised guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry leaders; and,
• Investor meetings – exclusive 1-on-1 sessions with pre-seed to growth-stage investors.

Global representation

Step Dubai attracts an array of participants, including investors and start-ups throughout the MENA countries as well as those from China, the US, Australia, Russia, Hungary, Germany, and the Netherlands. This international participation creates a metaphorical melting pot of ideas, opportunities, and collaborations that are yet to birth futuristic projects.

Influential participants

The conference attracts decision-makers and influential leaders from global giants such as Microsoft, Meta, 500 Global, SVC, du, and Emirates NBD. A highlight this year is the Silicon Valley Delegation, led by a Blitzscaling Ventures venture capitalist, Jeremiah Owyang, who will engage with Dubai’s thriving innovation ecosystem. Notably, a VIP Pass will be made available for attendees, which provides full access to the conference and entry to the VIP lounge.

Big names and game-changing discussions

Step Dubai 2025 will also host an impressive roster of speakers and partners, including leaders from Oracle, Trendyol, Plug and Play, Global Ventures, and Antler. Additionally, engaging panels will cover meaningful topics like AI, blockchain, fintech, and the future of advertising technology.

Entertainment and networking

The festival adopts a unique format that goes beyond traditional conference programming, featuring outdoor activities like food trucks, music performances, and pop-up vendors. This lively setup promotes authentic connections, open communication, and creative idea exchange, essentially making it ideal for informal networking among participants.

Tips for start-ups to maximise event participation

Inarguably, Step has been instrumental in making Dubai a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Over the years, the conference has supported start-ups and facilitated partnerships that have enriched Dubai’s multi-billion-dollar start-up ecosystem. From early-stage ventures to scaling businesses, Step has offered the ideal platform for entrepreneurs to network, showcase, and secure investments. If you’re looking to leverage this opportunity, here’s how to make the most of your participation:

1. Prepare your pitch perfectly

Create a concise, compelling pitch deck that clearly conveys your value proposition, market opportunity, and growth potential. Remember, first impressions matter when connecting with investors and decision-makers.

2. Engage with mentors

Take advantage of resources like the Mentor’s Corner to gain expert advice and valuable insights. These interactions can provide actionable strategies for entrepreneurs wanting to start a business in Dubai or scale their operations globally.

3. Maximise networking opportunities

Utilise the VIP Pass or attend satellite meetups to connect with investors, corporates, and peers. This is essential because, after all, effective networking can open doors to significant partnerships and substantial investments.

4. Leverage the Start-up Basecamp

Present your products or services to over 8,000 attendees and industry leaders at the Start-up Basecamp. Participating in the series of pitch competitions they offer can further boost visibility and credibility among investors.

5. Plan ahead for Investor Meetings

Schedule one-on-one sessions with investors early to discuss funding opportunities. Be prepared to answer questions about ROI, scalability, and how your start-up fits into Dubai’s vibrant business environment.

Finally, attending Step is more than simply an opportunity to exhibit or invest; it’s about immersing yourself in the thriving environment and learning about the subtle aspects of doing business in Dubai. The conference ensures that all attendees, whether start-ups or investors, leave with useful insights, connections, and possibilities to accelerate their growth.