Markus Susilo, Partner & International Business Leader at Baker Tilly, outlines how startups in the UAE can navigate the new corporate tax regime, VAT, and Free Zone incentives through smart compliance and early tax planning.

What are the key corporate tax obligations that startups in the UAE need to be aware of under the new tax regime?
A startup must assess corporate tax (CT) registration as soon as it is established or begins operations. Deadlines differ depending on the legal form and tax residence of the person. Once registered, it must file annual CT returns and make payments on time to avoid penalties.

At what point does a startup become liable for corporate tax in the UAE, and how is the taxable threshold calculated for small businesses?
A business becomes liable for CT once registered as a taxable person. The worldwide income of a UAE tax resident is subject to tax in the UAE, while non-UAE tax residents are taxed only on certain UAE-sourced income or UAE-attributed taxable income. Small Business Relief applies where the annual revenue of a taxable person does not exceed AED 3 million, provided that it is neither a Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) nor a member of Multinational Enterprise group. This relief is available until the end of 2026. Importantly, the AED 3 million revenue cap is assessed for each tax period and each previous period within that window. Once a business exceeds AED 3 million in revenue in a tax period, it becomes ineligible for the relief going forward. 

How should startups manage VAT registration and compliance, especially if they’re pre-revenue or just beginning to generate income?
VAT rules are separate from CT. As soon as a business makes its first transaction, it must assess whether this triggers its obligation or eligibility to register for VAT. Pre-revenue status does not relieve businesses from monitoring VAT obligations. Imports of goods and services must also be considered. In general, there are two thresholds to be observed: one for mandatory registration and one for voluntary registration. Mandatory registration has a specific deadline, whereas voluntary registration does not. The deadline depends on whether the threshold is breached or expected to be breached based on the historical or future threshold test.

Many startups rely on foreign investment and cross-border transactions. What tax considerations should they keep in mind under UAE rules?
The key advice is to always perform a tax analysis for all transactions, including international dealings. Before a startup signs a cross-border contract or accepts a foreign investment, it should consider consulting a tax advisor or using in-house expertise to check the overall UAE tax implications. This is especially crucial when the location of decision makers and/or staff of the UAE business is outside the UAE. Certain activities performed outside the UAE for the UAE business may have hidden adverse tax implications outside the UAE. 

Are there any common tax compliance mistakes that startups in the UAE tend to make, particularly in their early stages?
Startups often underestimate or delay tax compliance. Failing to comply with CT or VAT obligations results in missed registrations, inaccurate records, and late filings. The UAE aligns its tax framework with international standards, and non-compliance attracts penalties. Ignoring or undermining tax laws – even inadvertently – is something no business should do. The UAE has invested effort into aligning its tax system with international best practices and expects even small startups to comply fully. Believing that “we’re just a startup, so compliance can wait” is a serious misstep. Startups should treat tax compliance as a fundamental part of running the business from day one. This is also general practice in mature tax jurisdictions.

How do you see the evolving UAE tax framework impacting the startup ecosystem in the next 2–3 years?
Broadly, we expect a two-fold effect: greater compliance requirements on one hand, and greater stability and international credibility on the other. Another development is stricter enforcement by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to ensure that tax laws are followed. This could include audits or penalties for those who do not comply, signaling that even startups must take tax matters seriously from inception. We will also likely see the UAE tax system mature further with additional guidance and possibly amendments to the law as authorities learn from initial implementation.

On the positive side, the evolving tax framework brings clarity and support for startups. The government is conscious of maintaining a startup-friendly environment. For example, the Small Business Relief measure was introduced to support startups and small businesses by reducing their corporate tax burden and compliance costs in the initial years. Moreover, as the UAE aligns with international tax practices, startups could find it easier to expand abroad or attract foreign investment, since investors and partners take comfort in transparent, rule-of-law jurisdictions. 

What advice would you give startup founders in terms of building a tax-efficient business from day one?
Building a “tax-efficient” business in the UAE (or anywhere) means structuring operations in a way that fully complies with the applicable laws while taking advantage of any incentives or reliefs available. My first piece of advice is that founders should incorporate tax considerations into their decision-making from the very start of the business. One practical approach is to map out potential tax “pain points” or exposures in the business plan. Being tax-efficient often means proper planning and documentation, rather than any aggressive tax avoidance scheme. It is about ensuring you don’t pay more tax than needed, and you don’t pay penalties either.

My second key advice is not to hesitate to seek professional help when needed. If the business is not in the “tax advisory” sphere itself, engaging a qualified tax advisor can be extremely valuable.

Lastly, founders should focus on good governance and record-keeping as a cornerstone of tax efficiency.

How do Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) apply to startups, and what should founders be aware of when engaging in relevant activities?
Cabinet Decision No. 57 of 2020 stated that UAE-licensed businesses needed to comply with ESR for financial years starting on or after 1 January 2019. This was subsequently amended by Cabinet Decision No. 98 of 2024, which provides that ESR no longer apply to any financial year ending after 31 December 2022. This means that for a new startup launched now (in 2025 or later), ESR compliance obligations are not relevant. However, certain requirements have been embedded in provisions of the UAE CT law. A notable example is the need for sufficient economic substance in a UAE Free Zone if a company wants to take the Free Zone tax relief.

Many startups operate in Free Zones to benefit from tax incentives. How does the new corporate tax law affect Free Zone startups, and what conditions must they meet to retain their 0% rate?
Free Zone companies are taxable persons but may benefit from a 0% rate if classified as QFZPs. To qualify, they must fulfill all of the following conditions:

• Be incorporated in a  Free Zone
• Maintain adequate substance
• Earn Qualifying Income
• Comply with the de minimis rule
• Comply with the arm’s-length principle for transactions with Related Parties and Connected Persons, including documentation
• Prepare and maintain audited financial statements
• Not elect to be taxed at 9%

For startups considering whether to incorporate in a Free Zone or on the Mainland, what are the key tax differences they should factor into their decision-making?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each startup should closely examine its business model, target market, and growth plans in light of these tax differences. Sometimes a relief or incentive that looks good initially (e.g., Free Zone 0% or a specific deduction) might have adverse implications later if circumstances change. Founders should scenario-plan: “If we hit X revenue or pivot to do Y activity, will this structure still be optimal?” It may be beneficial to consult a tax advisor to run the numbers for both scenarios over a projected timeline. In summary, Mainland vs. Free Zone involves a trade-off between guaranteed but moderate taxation and simplicity (Mainland) versus potential 0% taxation with conditions (Free Zone).

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Al Ahram Beverages Company (ABC), a leading multi-category beverage manufacturer in Egypt, and Orange Corners Egypt are supporting youth innovation and entrepreneurship across the country. The Orange Corners programme is an initiative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and in Egypt is executed by the implementing partner, Outreach Egypt, under the auspices of the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, and is designed to equip young Egyptian entrepreneurs with the tools, exposure, and mentorship needed to build sustainable businesses.

This partnership underscores ABC’s enduring commitment to economic empowerment of youth through an inclusive program that also delivers on innovative, sustainable and viable business solutions. It also supports Egypt Vision 2030 and contributes to key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As part of the company’s commitment to empowering Egypt’s next generation of entrepreneurs, Al Ahram Beverages Company welcomed more than 50 participants from the Orange Corners Egypt programme to its largest manufacturing facility in Sharkia Governorate. These entrepreneurs represented a diverse range of regions, including Upper Egypt (Qena and Luxor) and the Delta (Alexandria, Behira, Dakahlia, Menoufia, and Kafr El Sheikh). The visit featured interactive mentorship sessions led by senior leaders across supply chain & production, finance & procurement, sustainability, health & safety, customer service logistics and planning, offering participants direct engagement with the company’s leadership. Entrepreneurs had the opportunity to ask questions, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights into ABC’s business practices. In addition, participants also gained firsthand insights into the full scope of operations and learned more about the company’s manufacturing excellence, innovation and sustainability practices during a guided tour of the plant.

“Our partnership with Orange Corners is a powerful example of how the private sector can help nurture the next generation of Egyptian innovators,” said Nikolay Mladenov, Managing Director at Al Ahram Beverages Company. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to investing in local communities and building resilient value chains. Worth to mention, that nearly 90% of our raw materials are sourced locally, as we believe deeply in the strength and potential of Egyptian talent.”

“It’s been an incredible journey partnering with Orange Corners Egypt over the past two years,” said Cherine Aidarous, Head of Corporate Affairs at Al Ahram Beverages Company. “We’ve had the privilege of supporting over 250 entrepreneurs and witnessing the graduation of nearly 140 startups across Egypt. What makes this journey even more meaningful is that nearly 50% of these participants are women, proof that inclusive innovation is not just a goal, but a reality. We were proud to witness and contribute to the launch of the new Delta cycle last year, and that’s exactly why we’re always encouraged to expand our partnership. Seeing these bright, driven individuals here today fills me with pride and reinforces our belief in the power of inclusive innovation. At ABC, we’re committed to walking alongside these founders, offering mentorship, resources, and real-world exposure to help them thrive.”

The visit to the Sharkia plant comes at a pivotal moment in the programme’s expansion. In 2025 alone, Orange Corners Egypt welcomed 100 new startups from the Delta into its second cycle and launched a new cohort in Luxor, further extending its reach across the country. Earlier this year, 30 startups from Upper Egypt were awarded grants from the Orange Corners Innovation Fund, selected from over 1,200 applications, a testament to the growing strength and competitiveness of Egypt’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. With over half of participants being women, the programme continues to champion inclusive innovation and equitable access to opportunity.

At Orange Corners Egypt, we believe that private sector engagement is the cornerstone for a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Dalia El Nazer, Programme Manager of Orange Corners Egypt. “This partnership is a testament to how businesses can go beyond traditional CSR to play an active role in shaping the future of innovation and job creation in Egypt. When leading companies open their doors to young entrepreneurs, and share their knowledge, networks, and real-world insights, they help bridge the gap between ideas to growth and impact. Together, we’re not only empowering entrepreneurs to grow but also fostering a culture of a unique partnership that benefits the youth across the country.”

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Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) recently hosted an engaging session on how businesses can grow sales through influencer marketing at its Compass Coworking Centre. The session equipped entrepreneurs and SMEs with strategies to turn their social media presence into measurable business results.

Led by Mohamad Fattal, Founder and CEO of Alfan, the session delved into the evolving role of influencers in driving brand visibility, authenticity, and revenue. With insights drawn from Alfan’s network and partnerships, Fattal shared actionable methods to bridge the gap between creators, brands, and audiences.

Participants learned how to identify the right influencer partnerships based on audience relevance and engagement rates, develop content tailored to each platform, and design cost-effective strategies for SMEs and growing businesses. The session also provided tools to measure real commercial impact beyond surface-level metrics, supported by case studies showing how sustained creator collaborations and well-crafted briefs can drive stronger brand awareness and convert digital engagement into measurable sales.

RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “At RAKEZ, we continuously look for ways to help our business community stay ahead in the ever-changing digital landscape. Influencer marketing has evolved into a key growth driver for businesses of all sizes, and this session was designed to give our clients the knowledge and confidence to turn engagement into real sales. By connecting them with industry experts, we aim to empower them to think bigger, act smarter, and maximise every opportunity the digital world offers.”

The session is part of RAKEZ’s ongoing initiative to support the growth of its business community through expert-led workshops and networking opportunities that address real-world challenges and emerging trends across industries.

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BRKZ, the leading B2B managed marketplace for building materials in Saudi Arabia, has secured up to $30 million in growth debt from Stride Ventures. The facility will enhance BRKZ’s capabilities to offer flexible payment solutions in the construction sector, enabling its network of partner factories and contractors and driving growth in the supply chain for raw materials.

With Saudi Arabia preparing to host global events such as Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034, and giga-projects like King Salman Park, Diriyah Gate, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project advancing, the country’s construction market is shifting gears from boom to blockbuster – where efficient materials procurement and innovative financing solutions are emerging as the next catalysts for sustainable growth.

This announcement follows BRKZ’s earlier equity rounds totaling $22.5 million, with the latest round fully covered by repeat investors including BECO, BNVT Capital, Better Tomorrow Ventures and Aramco’s Wa’ed, a strong signal of long-term confidence in the company’s business model. In 2024, BRKZ grew revenues by 4× while maintaining healthy unit economics. Since launch, the company has processed SAR 3.14 billion (≈ $837M) in RFQs, expanded its catalog to more than 7,500 SKUs sourced from 1,300 suppliers, and onboarded over 850 unique contracting companies and factories across the Kingdom.

As a further mark of recognition, BRKZ was hand-picked into the Saudi Unicorns Program, highlighting its position as one of the Kingdom’s most promising growth companies, strategically aligned with national priorities.

Ibrahim Manna, Founder & CEO of BRKZ, said: “This growth debt facility from Stride Ventures strengthens our ability to support contractors and factories with more flexible payment and financing enablement options across the Saudi building materials market. It allows us to further expand our tailored embedded financing ecosystem, helping customers manage project cash flows more efficiently. With the recognition of being hand-picked into the Saudi Unicorns Program, we are firmly positioned to scale as the procurement and financial enablement partner of choice for contractors and factories nationwide. Stride has a proven track record of backing companies with similar models, making them the right partner to support us as we scale this vision in Saudi Arabia.”

Khaled Hamada, General Manager of AlFanar Contracting, added: “BRKZ’s financing enablement solutions have been a game-changer for our projects. Having access to tailored payment terms through their platform allowed us to execute multiple projects across Saudi Arabia more efficiently, while meeting tight deadlines without the usual financing hurdles. Their approach gives contractors like us the confidence and flexibility to scale with the pace of the Kingdom’s giga-projects.”

As projects such as Qiddiya, Diriyah Gate, and Expo 2030 continue to shape the construction landscape, the sector is increasingly focused on efficiency, financial flexibility, and innovation. BRKZ’s financing enablement led model is designed to give contractors and factories the tools to execute reliably, even in a challenging market environment.

Ishpreet Singh Gandhi, Founder & Managing Partner, Stride Ventures, said: “BRKZ is a standout startup, building the financing infrastructure to match the pace and scale of Saudi Arabia’s construction transformation under Vision 2030. This partnership reflects our commitment to the region’s entrepreneurial economy, with our GCC expansion set to deploy half a billion dollars across the region by 2026.”

Fariha Ansari Javed, Partner, Stride Ventures, said: “We are proud to back BRKZ as it pioneers innovative financing solutions for Saudi Arabia’s building materials sector. Having previously partnered with leaders in similar models in India, we believe BRKZ is well-positioned to replicate and localize that success in the Kingdom. Their strong execution, rapid scale, and alignment with national priorities make them a true standout in the region.”

Looking ahead, BRKZ will continue investing in AI-driven procurement tools, expanding its flexible payment enablement suite, and growing its supplier network across Saudi Arabia and international markets such as the Far East and India. The company is also doubling down on cloud manufacturing models and supply/off-take arrangements to further support the growth and resilience of factories and raw materials sourcing in the Kingdom.

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Creww Inc., Japan’s leading open innovation platform provider, and Real Madrid Next are pleased to announce the selection of 6 startups for the “Real Madrid Next Accelerator for Asia” Batch 2.

One Smile Tech Inc. https://1smiletech.jp/ (Japan)

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Commercial Bank International (CBI), one of the UAE’s leading financial institutions, officially launched CBIx, a bold, independent platform that is a wholly owned subsidiary dedicated to innovation and ventures. CBIx explores, enables, and accelerates disruptive ideas across banking by bonding emerging technologies with real-world applications.

The launch of CBIx marks a fresh chapter in CBI’s evolution: rooted in finance and built for the next wave of digital transformation. As a fully independent venture, CBIx provides the bank with the ability to pilot new financial models and expand faster across areas such as AI, tokenized assets, Web3, gaming, and the wider fintech ecosystem.

“The UAE has long been a hub of innovation, and with CBIx, we are building on that spirit to lead the next stage of financial and technological transformation. Our vision is clear: to create meaningful connections between traditional finance and emerging technologies, and to turn ambitious ideas into practical solutions. CBIx will not follow global trends, it will set them, both in the region and internationally,” says Ala Aljayyusi, Managing Director of CBIx.

Initial initiatives include facilitating the establishment of a Money Market Fund in partnership with QNB and collaboration with the Al Farabi Innovation Hub to translate academic research into practical banking solutions. CBIx is also establishing a corporate venture capital arm to invest in high-potential startups and is advancing tokenization projects in partnership with the Ascend RWA Accelerator.

“CBIx is about turning vision into execution. It is where new ideas are tested and scaled into solutions that serve real needs: tokenized assets and AI-driven finance or tailored products for new communities like gaming. We are building something that is global in its outlook but firmly rooted in the UAE’s innovation ecosystem,” says Giovanni Everduin, Co-founder of CBIx.

CBIx is experimenting with next-gen banking models built for the world’s fastest-growing sectors, starting with custom financial products for the gaming community, created together with the DIFC’s gaming hub. It’s a glimpse into how CBIx plans to reinvent financial services and push the UAE further into the spotlight as a global digital powerhouse.

The CBIx team matches startup energy with deep industry know-how and a future-facing mindset. They’re building ventures that bridge local breakthroughs with global demand and have a real impact on customers, partners, and communities.

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Australian startup, Uluu has raised AUD 16 million in Series A funding to build a demonstration plant and scale its technology, transforming seaweed into a natural alternative to plastic for industrial production.

The round was led by German growth investor Burda Principal Investments with support from Main Sequence, Novel Investments (the family office of one of the world’s largest textile groups), Startmate, and a consortium of leading impact and family investors including Fairground and Trinity Ventures.

Uluu’s next-generation materials perform like conventional plastics and can be processed using existing plastic manufacturing equipment.

Unlike plastic made from fossil fuels, they are reusable, recyclable, home compostable and marine biodegradable—breaking down naturally without releasing microplastics. They’re strong, lightweight, waterproof and non-toxic, while being climate positive at scale.

At commercial scale, Uluu’s production process has scope to sequester and avoid up to ~5kg CO₂ equivalent for every 1kg of material produced, compared with ~3kg emitted by plastic today. The technology has the potential to reduce global CO₂ emissions by more than 2 gigatonnes per year.

With the Series A raise, Uluu will scale from its 100kg/year pilot facility to a 10-tonne/year demonstration plant in Western Australia, enabling the company to deliver commercial volumes to customers.

Uluu is already collaborating with a range of global partners in cosmetics, fashion and the automotive industry, including public campaigns with Quiksilver, Papinelle and Audi.

“After four years’ work developing this technology, including two years’ running our pilot plant, we’re excited to take this next step and start delivering meaningful volumes of our materials to customers,” said Uluu co-founder and co-CEO Michael Kingsbury.

“The demonstration plant is a critical step in showing Uluu can scale to truly compete with and replace fossil plastics.”

Uluu co-founder and co-CEO Dr Julia Reisser said seaweed was one of the most sustainable resources on Earth. Seaweed grows quickly and gets everything it needs from the sun and the sea,” she said. “It locks away CO 2 and helps clean up pollutants from the ocean.

“By harnessing seaweed, Uluu is producing materials that have a positive, rather than negative, impact on the environment, while ending plastic pollution.”

The Series A round also primes Uluu for future growth, with plans underway for a commercial-scale facility capable of producing thousands of tonnes annually to serve major global markets.

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Hashgraph Ventures Manager Ltd. (HVM), a newly established venture capital fund in Web3 and deep technologies, regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market, has announced Darrach (Dara) Campbell as Senior Executive Officer.

HVM, which is licensed to manage VC funds, launched the Hashgraph Ventures Fund I LP, a venture capital fund classed as a Qualified Investor Fund with the ADGM FSRA. The strategic Web3 venture fund focuses on generating attractive long-term returns by investing in early-stage, equity and token-based companies that leverage the convergence of deep technologies to build and commercialize enterprise-grade infrastructure and products for the Web3 economy.

The appointment of Dara, who brings almost 20 years of multifaceted experience spanning investment banking, family office, venture capital, blockchain and gaming, reflects HVM’s commitment to accelerating its vision of setting the standard in deep tech investment and driving the next era of digital transformation, in the MENA region and beyond.

Kamal Youssefi, Executive Chairman of Hashgraph Ventures, Manager and President of The Hashgraph Association, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Dara, a seasoned investment fund management and blockchain expert, to the fund. We are confident he will add great value to the Web3 ecosystem through the strategic investments that will be made in deep tech companies and solutions in AI, IoT, Blockchain, DLT, robotics and quantum computing.”

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Dara said: “We are at a pivotal moment in the global Web3 landscape and by bringing our collective experience, our goal is to continue our evolution as a key enabler in the industry, both in the MENA region and worldwide. I’m excited to be providing my expertise and longevity in multiple investment verticals and I’m confident we can deliver strong value and positive long-term impact in the Web3 space.”

An accomplished leader in the digital economy, Dara previously served as the Head of Middle East at Varys Capital, overseeing its partnerships, strategy, capital alignment, and portfolio in the region.

He has also spearheaded EMG: Esports Management Group, a prominent UAE-based gaming ecosystem company as Managing Director, where he led IP creation and early-stage investments that delivered strong regional growth and culminated in a successful exit. He also held the role of Executive Director at Abdulla Al Gurg Global Investments (AGGI) where his core mandate centered around the gaming ecosystem entity, strategic investments across traditional and alternative asset classes including real estate, liquid strategies, and commodities.

Dara holds advanced certifications in international investments from the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) and a specialized degree in cryptocurrencies and trading from the Blockchain Council.

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Snap Inc. has officially opened its new office in Doha’s Msheireb district, in the presence of Founder and Chief Executive Officer Evan Spiegel and Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office (GCO). This expansion marks a major milestone in its Middle East presence and reaffirms its long-term investment in the region’s digital economy, amid the rapid digital innovations taking place in Qatar.

The Gulf region is among the most connected and technologically advanced in the world, with users opening Snapchat more than 45 times a day on average. Around 85% engage daily with augmented reality experiences, reflecting the region’s strong enthusiasm for immersive technologies. As Qatar continues to advance its digital transformation, Snapchat remains a key part of social connection, enabling people to express themselves, be creative, and communicate meaningfully, making it one of the most preferred platforms in the country for staying connected.

“We welcome Snap Inc.’s expansion in Qatar and its continued contribution to the country’s digital and creative economy. The establishment of the new office represents an important step in strengthening our strategic partnership, which began three years ago and has already achieved significant milestones, particularly in development, training, and support for the creative industry,” said Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the GCO. “Today marks the beginning of a new phase in this close cooperation, one that supports our efforts to build a digital infrastructure capable of keeping pace with the latest developments in content creation, while attracting skilled professionals and empowering exceptional talents across the region — reinforcing Qatar’s position as a regional hub for innovation, technology, and digital transformation, and supporting the nation’s comprehensive development journey.”

“Qatar stands as one of the region’s most dynamic and forward-looking markets and is home to an incredibly creative and highly engaged community,” said Hussein Freijeh, Vice President of Snap Inc. in MENA. “With this new office, we’re deepening our roots in a market that celebrates creativity and culture, and reaffirming our commitment to empowering creators, partners, and businesses to unlock new opportunities within Qatar’s rapidly evolving digital ecosystem.”

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New research from Snap Inc., and GWI, has revealed that Qataris are among the most digitally engaged and forward-thinking audiences in the Middle East. The findings from “Getting to know Snapchatters in Qatar” highlight that more than 50% create content or interact with branded posts monthly, which makes them 33% more likely to click on sponsored content and 47% more likely to swipe up on Stories compared to the regional average.

At a time when cultural relevance and audience impact are paramount for brand engagement, the research showcases how Snapchatters in Qatar are setting new trends across content, commerce and community. Distinct usage habits among Snapchatters in Qatar highlight the individuality of this audience:

• Snapchatters are 25% more likely to belong to high-income groups compared to users in other GCC markets, representing an affluent audience for premium brands.
• In comparison to non-Snapchatters, they are 70% more likely to donate to charity each month, They are also 14% more likely to gift electronics, and 2.1x as likely to gift hampers  –  reflecting a community that values connection and generosity both on and off the platform.
• Nearly 70% engage with health, fitness, and beauty content, and they are  80% more likely to describe themselves as fashion-conscious.
• Over 40% also express enthusiasm for exploring local cultural experiences, including touring museums, enjoying traditional cuisine or and visiting heritage sites – blending  cultural curiosity and personal expression.
• Snapchatters are 316% more likely to be Qatari nationals, making the platform a key channel to reach young, affluent, and local audiences.
• They are also 38% more likely than non-users to be Gen Z, and in Qatar, are 16% more likely than users in GCC to be millennials.

“The findings from our research with GWI underscores Snapchat’s unparalleled ability to reach Qatar’s most engaged and culturally connected digital consumers – predominantly Gen Z and affluent locals –  who are shaping new standards for creativity, cultural relevance, and online engagement across the GCC.,” said Dina Al Sabbagh, Group Manager, Global Research and Insights at Snap Inc. “Whether brands are looking to tell their story, drive conversions, or tap into the cultural heartbeat of the nation, Snapchat’s insights and tools offer the perfect vehicle to build meaningful, impactful connections with their audience.”

Supported by its advanced AR tools and creator-driven ecosystem, Snapchat empowers brands, creators, and developers across the region to make meaningful connections with the right audiences. These insights underscore Snapchat’s position as the go-to space for full-funnel marketing in Qatar, reaffirming the platform’s role in connecting brands to Qatar’s most engaged and influential digital consumers, who are not just consuming content but actively shaping the conversations around it.

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IFZA has launched its inaugural Scale360 accelerator, a market access program designed to connect international startups with the UAE’s thriving business ecosystem.

The program kicked off with a Dubai Immersion Week during GITEX Global 2025, welcoming 15 global startups specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability. The cohort includes Groundup.ai, BrandContext, Nucleon Security, Organized Matter, GlassHUB, ShareID, Tayar | طيار, ISTINA AI, Power Dime, Sensgreen, nettle, RELAYTO AI, 913.ai, Interloom, and Synteza AI, spanning sectors from retail and banking to defence and green technology.

“At IFZA, our focus is to empower entrepreneurs and attract high-potential ventures to the UAE,” said Julia Timms, Chief Commercial Officer at IFZA. “Scale360 was created to support the success of international startups entering this market – helping them navigate the business landscape, connect with investors, and launch with confidence. As a partner of choice, IFZA is proud to contribute to an ecosystem where collaboration drives real growth.”

During the immersion week, Scale360 partnered with Shorooq Partners for their annual GITEX Social, one of the region’s most influential startup networking events. The gathering brought together over 300 investors, partners, and ecosystem enablers, including other partners NVIDIA, Taylor Wessing, ElevenLabs, LimonCloud, and Verod-Kepple. The event coincided with Shorooq’s recent announcement of a $100 million AI fund, aligning with the UAE’s Vision 2031 and its ambition to lead in AI and sustainability.

A highlight of the program so far was the fireside chat “Do’s and Don’ts for Foreign Startups Entering the UAE”, featuring Gilles Praet (Sentiance), Fabrizio Siracusano (serial entrepreneur and innovation expert), and Yahya Iqelan (MBZUAI). The panel explored how public, private, and entrepreneurial sectors collaborate to drive growth and shared actionable insights for startups entering the UAE market.

“Scale360 bridges ambition with access,” said Sinead O’Keeffe, Head of Scale360. “Our role is to ensure international startups can enter the UAE market ready to collaborate, contribute, and grow alongside the region’s most forward-looking partners.”

The program also highlights the pivotal role of free zones in supporting startup growth, offering infrastructure, incentives, and access to regional markets. Its emphasis on AI and sustainability aligns with the UAE’s National AI Strategy 2031 and Net Zero by 2050 goals, reinforcing Dubai’s leadership in emerging technologies and green innovation.

The Scale360 cohort will continue to engage with corporate partners and investors in the coming weeks, culminating in Demo Day in November 2025, where startups will showcase their progress and pitch to potential investors.

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The international Moscow Startup Summit has concluded in the Russian capital, becoming one of the year’s most important global events in technology and innovation. The summit brought together leading international experts and representatives of tech companies from 40 countries. Among the key events in the business program were startup pitch sessions, exhibitions, and the demo day of the international accelerator Sber500.

Over two days, the summit hosted more than 60 discussions and sessions focused on artificial intelligence, sustainable development, and technological entrepreneurship. Participants from China, India, Brazil, Turkey, Indonesia, Vietnam, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries discussed global economic challenges and strategies for adapting to a rapidly changing technological reality.

The summit opened with a plenary conference featuring Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin and Sber CEO Herman Gref, who discussed human-centered technologies and the future of megacities, as well as how digital ecosystems are transforming modern life.

International headliners included 2024 Nobel laureate in Economics Daron Acemoglu, three-time Academy Award winner Oliver Stone, and future-readiness expert Selina Neri. Their talks addressed key issues in global technological development — from the future of AI and its social implications to new models of education and career growth in the digital era, and the role of creativity in entrepreneurship.

A central part of the summit was a large-scale startup exhibition, featuring around 100 Russian and international projects. Notable examples included:

• Gumich, which showcased its Gorodovoy robotic technology complex.
• AI Deepfake, which developed tools to combat the spread of falsified digital content.
• TUBOT, which presented in-pipeline robots for diagnostics, repair, and cleaning of pipelines.
• Cyberly, which introduced an innovative VR-based therapy platform for preventing and treating anxiety disorders and phobias.
• ONSINT, which developed a domestically produced industrial 3D printer with a high degree of localization.
• ExoAtlet, which unveiled a medical exoskeleton for the rehabilitation of patients with lower-limb impairments.
• Titan Power Solution, which presented a supercapacitor-based energy storage system — a high-power, efficient device capable of regenerative charging.

International guests showed strong interest in AI and machine learning solutions, green technologies, and urban digitalization. Among the showcased projects were Russian startups already scaling globally — such as Virsine Innovations, which created a VR-based system for remote operation of industrial machinery, including cranes and mining excavators. Startups from Iran, the UAE, India, Pakistan, and other countries also took part.

The summit became a key platform for strategic partnerships between Russian and international companies.

One major announcement was the creation of Europe’s largest testing ground for innovation in the construction sector, to be developed jointly by the Moscow Innovation Cluster and SberCity.

The event also saw major investment deals in the tech sector. A consortium including KAMA FLOW (lead investor) and Osnova Capital announced a ₽1 billion investment in Piklema Group, which develops software solutions for the mining industry. Additionally, venture fund Friendly VC revealed plans to invest ₽50 million in SmartSee, the developer of iCrossWalk, a smart pedestrian crossing system.

The Moscow Startup Summit concluded with the Startup Summit Awards, established by the Moscow Government and Sber to recognize outstanding achievements in technology and innovation. The awards ceremony became the culmination of the two-day event, highlighting the scale of Russia’s innovation ecosystem.

More than 1,700 applications were submitted from 79 regions of Russia, including 370 entries for the Best AI Solution category and over 160 projects competing for Best Urban Innovation.

Winners were recognized across 17 categories in five main areas — startups, venture investors, corporations, regions and universities, and media promoting technological entrepreneurship.

The Moscow Startup Summit was organized by the Moscow Government and Sber, The event brought together over 5,000 participants, including representatives of venture funds, tech corporations, and research institutions.

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Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 28DIGITAL, an organisation specialising in supporting digital knowledge and innovation across Europe. The agreement is aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and unlocking new opportunities for partnerships between entrepreneurs in Dubai and European countries.

The MoU was signed on the sidelines of Expand North Star 2025, organised by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, which concludes today at Dubai Harbour. The signing ceremony was attended by Saeed AlGergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, and Federico Menna, Chief Executive Officer of 28DIGITAL.

Saeed AlGergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, said: “Our cooperation with 28DIGITAL represents an important step in our efforts to reinforce Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. By enhancing collaboration between the technology ecosystems of Dubai and Europe, we seek to develop new and impactful pathways for innovation, investment, and growth across all digital sectors.”

Under the terms of the MoU, the two parties will work together to create new opportunities for tech ventures. Key areas of cooperation include market discovery, facilitating business and investment opportunities, and providing comprehensive support for companies seeking to establish a presence in either Dubai or Europe. Both organisations will also promote active participation in their respective innovation ecosystems, organise business missions, provide investor referrals, and facilitate access to local incubators, accelerators, and finance services.

Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy remains committed to driving the success of Dubai’s digital ecosystem and accelerating the emirate’s transformation into one of the world’s leading digital economies, in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). As one of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy’s flagship initiatives, Expand North Star represents a key pillar of the chamber’s strategy to achieve Dubai’s ambition of becoming a global hub for innovation and technology.

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Presight has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC). As a part of this collaboration, the CyberE71 program, operated by the Council, will officially join Presight’s AI-Startup Accelerator as a partner, reinforcing the program’s mission to scale impactful AI-driven innovation in the UAE and beyond.

Through this MoU, Presight and the Cyber Security Council will collaborate to empower AI startups to innovate responsibly and securely. The partnership brings national cybersecurity expertise and strategic mentorship into the Presight AI-Startup Accelerator, exploring a joint framework for research, technical enablement, and capacity-building initiatives. Together, they will drive collaboration across government, academia, and the private sector, embedding cybersecurity into the foundation of AI development and reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global leader in digital innovation and resilience.

The agreement was signed during Expand North Star 2025 between His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security For UAE government, and Thomas Pramotedham, CEO of Presight.

H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti said: “Cybersecurity and artificial intelligence are twin pillars of the UAE’s digital transformation journey. Our collaboration with Presight reflects a shared commitment to fostering responsible innovation and ensuring that emerging technologies are developed with security at their core. As a national AI champion, Presight brings the infrastructure, scale, and vision needed to accelerate startup success while maintaining trust and resilience. Together, with the CyberE71 Program and Presight AI Accelerator Program, we will help empower a new generation of entrepreneurs to create transformative, secure technologies that advance the UAE’s position as a trusted global hub for digital innovation.”

Thomas Pramotedham, CEO of Presight, said: “Presight and the UAE Cyber Security Council have enjoyed a long history of collaboration, and I share my deepest gratitude to His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti for extending our partnership to now include the Presight AI-Startup Accelerator. Our collaboration with the UAE Cyber Security Council will unite Presight’s strengths in artificial intelligence with the Council’s national leadership in cyber resilience. Together, we are enabling startups to scale securely and responsibly, driving technologies that deliver transformation while safeguarding the trust that underpins every digital interaction.”

By integrating cybersecurity principles into every stage of AI development, the collaboration between Presight and the UAE Cyber Security Council demonstrates the country’s forward-looking approach to building a technology ecosystem where innovation and security evolve together. It reinforces the UAE’s ambition to lead globally in ethical, responsible, and resilient digital transformation.

The Cyber Security Council joins a growing network of strategic partners supporting the Presight AI-Startup Accelerator, including Microsoft, MBZUAI and Shorooq. Together, these partnerships form a dynamic ecosystem that equips startups with the mentorship, infrastructure, market access, and policy alignment needed to build transformative AI solutions at scale.

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Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has launched the K2 Think Hackathon, an international challenge inviting innovators, developers, researchers, founders and students from secondary and high schools to build groundbreaking applications powered by K2 Think, a leading open-source system for advanced reasoning. The winning team’s idea will be integrated into the K2 Think app, reaching users globally.

The hackathon unfolds in two stages, combining a global open call with an in-person build challenge in Abu Dhabi.

• Stage 1: Global Idea Call – October 14 to 26, 2025

Participants worldwide are invited to submit a one-page proposal showcasing how K2 Think can solve real world problems or create new user experiences.

• Stage 2: 48-hour Build Challenge (Abu Dhabi) – November 7 to 9, 2025

The top 10 teams, selected by a panel of experts, will receive travel grants to develop and pitch their ideas in person at MBZUAI.

The hackathon is organized by MBZUAI’s Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center and powered by K2 Think, developed by MBZUAI’s Institute of Foundation Models in partnership with G42.

“The K2 Think Hackathon will bring some of the world’s most creative and talented developers together to shape the future of AI reasoning through demonstrating real-world impact,” said Richard Morton, Acting Executive Director of Institute of Foundation Models. “K2 Think is engineered for advanced mathematical reasoning, enabling transformative solutions in science, finance, education and logistics. This hackathon is a tremendous opportunity worldwide to highlight some of the best ideas for how K2 Think can be implemented in ways that are both creative and useful.  We’re inviting the world to push the limits of what’s possible and turn ideas into deployable impact.”

How to apply:
Applications are now open via https://hackathon.k2think.ai/

Teams – up to four members each – must submit proposals including:

• Problem statement and target users
• Use of K2 Think
• Proposed demo or experience
• Potential global impact

Deadline: October 26, 2025

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Osome, the AI-enabled business management platform trusted by over 30,000 entrepreneurs globally, announced the opening of its office in Dubai to help founders reduce financial and administrative burdens and build a collaborative ecosystem of partners in the Middle East.

It is estimated that Dubai is home to more than one million small and medium enterprises (SMEs). While the city offers unparalleled opportunities, founders face increasing pressures to manage accounting, tax, and regulatory requirements alongside scaling their businesses.

“At Osome, we want founders to spend more time on their vision and less time on financial admin,” said Helena Flores, Chief Operating Officer of Osome and Managing Director of Osome UAE.

“Our role is twofold: first, to reduce financial and administrative burdens for founders through smart, AI-enabled services backed by human experts. Second, to grow together with the UAE ecosystem by working with partners – from fintechs and digital platforms to VCs and accelerators – to unlock new opportunities for entrepreneurs.”

One of Osome’s customers is Aesty Labs, co-founded by Nadia Zueva (CEO) and Andrei Rychkov (CTO). Nadia said, “Partnering with Osome has transformed Aesty. Their AI-enabled platform has freed us from over 30 hours of monthly admin tasks, allowing us to focus on learning our customers’ styles and helping them shop smarter. With clear visibility into our financials, we can drive growth and improve investor reporting.”

Services for Founders
Osome’s services are available in the UAE, including:

• Accounting and bookkeeping: Dedicated accountants with unlimited bookkeeping.
• VAT & Corporate Tax: End-to-end support for VAT registration, VAT filing, and corporate tax filing requirements.
• Compliance: Monitoring statutory filing deadlines and financial statement requirements under the entity’s constitutional documents.

Building an Ecosystem of Partners
Osome is keen to engage with the UAE ecosystem and will take part in Expand North Star @ GITEX 2025, the world’s largest startup and investor connector event. At this event, they will connect with potential collaborators and showcase their platform. Additionally, Osome will host a private networking event for entrepreneurs and partners the night before to help build the community in Dubai.

In its existing markets – Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom – Osome works with a broad pool of partners, including digital solution providers, venture capitalists, and accelerators. These partnerships have helped founders access complementary services that reduce costs, increase efficiency, and accelerate growth.

By replicating this model in Dubai, Osome aims to embed itself as an ecosystem enabler, constantly seeking out the right partners to deliver added value for UAE entrepreneurs.

Helena added: “Osome’s expansion into the UAE positions us closer to a rapidly evolving ecosystem of global innovation. The UAE’s commitment to attracting talent, enhancing financial transparency, and digitising government processes aligns with our vision. As more entrepreneurs relocate to the region, our aim is to deliver efficient, tech-driven solutions to empower these founders in managing their businesses and financials transparently and productively.”

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Presight today celebrated the success of the inaugural Presight AI-Startup Accelerator cohort at the opening day of the Expand North Star 2025 (ENS) event, the world’s largest startup and investor event.

Since its launch, the first cohort has generated more than 70 qualified commercial and strategic leads, with several startups of Presight’s program now in advanced partnership and contract discussions with major industry and government clients both in UAE and internationally.  These outcomes highlight the accelerator’s role in transforming cutting-edge AI innovations into scalable, market-ready solutions across key verticals such as smart cities, fintech, energy, cybersecurity, education, and climate risk.

As the Official AI Accelerator of ENS 2025, Presight proudly hosted the founders and CEOs of the 10 companies part of cohort one of the Presight AI-Startup Accelerator on day one of the event. During a keynote address, Thomas Pramotedham, Chief Executive Officer, Presight, unveiled a documentary video showcasing the journey of the startups and revealed the ongoing progress they have achieved as part of the program.

Commenting on the success, Thomas Pramotedham said: “The Presight AI-Startup Accelerator has rapidly become one of the world’s most dynamic launchpads for applied AI innovation. In just 52 days since inception, we have seen participating startups advance from proven technologies to commercially deployable solutions — a clear testament to their agility, capability, and market focus.

“This progress reinforces our North Star: accelerating commercial velocity across the ecosystem and establishing a Symbiotic Growth Engine that propels startups toward scale and sustained market impact. Many are already collaborating with G42 Group companies, Core42, Astra Tech, and CPX, and Presight’s network, progressing through proof-of-concept engagements and exploring strategic partnerships that convert innovation into measurable results.

“The momentum we are witnessing underscores a larger vision — Presight is not only enabling AI-driven innovation but orchestrating a scalable, sustaining ecosystem where technology, AI innovation, and commercial opportunity converge to drive enduring growth.”

Another highlight of Presight’s presence at ENS is the Presight–Shorooq Fund I, a $100 million global AI fund designed to back high-impact ventures by providing capital, infrastructure, and commercial pathways to scale globally from the UAE. Together, Presight and Shorooq are leveraging Expand North Star to identify the next wave of breakthrough AI innovators poised to shape the industry’s future.

In addition, Magzhan Kenesbai, Chief Growth Officer at Presight, will join the ENS 10X Stage discussion to share insights on the Presight–Shorooq Fund I and the evolving landscape of AI investment, emphasizing the UAE’s growing role as a global launchpad for next-generation AI ventures. Presight will also serve as a judge in the Supernova Challenge Pitch Competition, spotlighting innovative startups that are driving transformative change across industries.

Launched at Expand North Star 2024, the Presight AI Startup Accelerator provides founders with advanced infrastructure, technical mentorship, and access to commercial networks through the G42 ecosystem.

Startups and visitors at Expand North Star can connect with Presight representatives at the company’s stand to explore new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in artificial intelligence. Visit Presight at Stand H8-B110, Dubai Harbour.

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Infinia Technologies, the Abu Dhabi-based innovation powerhouse, is set to make its debut at GITEX Expand North Star 2025, the world’s largest startup and investor connector event. This marks an important step in Infinia’s growth journey as it joins the global stage of innovators and technology leaders at Dubai Harbour.

The company will spotlight its diverse portfolio of subsidiaries, including AI-driven platforms, HealthTech solutions, Cloud infrastructure, and modular technology systems. Each innovation is designed to accelerate digital transformation and empower the future of smart industries both locally and globally

Among its showcase highlights, SAIF, an International Holding Company (IHC) platform that was announced at Make it in the Emirates 2025, is an enterprise-grade AI operating system and ecosystem designed to unify intelligence, workflows, and security across organizations. Beyond agents, SAIF integrates a full AI Foundry, combining sovereign GPU infrastructure for training and inference, a Finetuning Academy to upskill innovators, and a seamless platform for agent design, workflow automation, and multi-modal intelligence. Built in Abu Dhabi and anchored in sovereignty, global scalability, and openness, SAIF empowers governments, enterprises, and startups to build, deploy, and commercialize AI on their own terms. SAIF delivers the foundation for global AI independence; setting a new benchmark for how nations and organizations access, control, and scale AI.

Aside from showcasing major world first technology solutions, Infinia will also be putting pen to paper on strategic joint venture agreements and partnerships, with global technology providers and government enablers.

Participating at Gitex Global Expand North Star 2025 marks a major milestone in Infinia’s mission to foster collaboration, attract strategic partnerships, and drive forward the UAE’s innovation agenda. Through its expanding ecosystem, Infinia Technologies continues to champion the nation’s vision of becoming a global hub for technology and digital transformation.

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IFZA announces its sponsorship of the 11th edition of the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO) Annual Congress, held this October under the theme “Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade, and Sustainable Innovation.”

Taking place in Hainan, China, from October 10–12, 2025, the conference is the world’s premier platform for free zone leaders, policymakers, and innovators to explore the evolving role of special economic zones in driving trade, sustainability, and economic growth. Over three dynamic days, the event will feature visionary keynotes, high-impact panels, and strategic leadership tracks aimed at delivering actionable solutions for a rapidly changing global economy.

“At IFZA we believe that business is the driver of economies and prosperity, which is the backbone of nations,” said Jochen Knecht, IFZA CEO. “We are committed to supporting Chinese businesses in their international expansion and are once again delighted to be part of this global dialogue on the transformative role of free zones. Entrepreneurship shapes economies, creates jobs and uplifts communities. We mirror this at IFZA, as we believe in building global ecosystems that nurture innovation and exchange – empowering businesses and communities to thrive. That is the vision we are bringing to the World FZO Congress.”

In an era defined by technological disruption and supply chain shifts, free zones are transforming into innovation-driven ecosystems that fuel inclusive and sustainable growth.

Senior IFZA executives, including CEO Jochen Knecht and Patrick Kuehl, Regional Director Market Relations, will participate in key panels and conversations at the event to highlight opportunities for Chinese businesses looking to expand their operations beyond borders.

IFZA is well positioned to support Chinese businesses looking to expand their business operations internationally. For entrepreneurs specifically looking to expand their businesses from China to the Middle East, Dubai is the perfect hub and IFZA is the ideal platform for business incorporation, growth and expansion within the region.

The World FZO World Congress 2025 is set to be a landmark event, reaffirming the role of zones as engines of prosperity and platforms for global collaboration.

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