DUBAI: At the Expand North Star 2024, Emirati students have garnered attention with their innovative digital solutions at the YouthX Unipreneur event, demonstrating features that stand toe-to-toe with global technologies. The event, a focal point for aspiring entrepreneurs from schools and universities, highlighted the UAE’s commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
According to Emirates News Agency, the YouthX Unipreneur event has been a significant part of Expand North Star since its inception in 2021. Hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy at Dubai Harbour, this platform has attracted over 3,000 visitors and facilitated connections between more than 1,000 students and prominent mentors, investors, and industry leaders. The event has not only showcased students’ projects but also provided them with opportunities to win prizes and secure funding, with a total of AED 500,000 in rewards offered to encourage young innovators.
The participation of
local startups at the event was particularly notable. Innovations such as Scrapp, a platform enhancing consumer after-sales experiences; Rise AI, which offers AI-driven marketing solutions; and DINOTECH, known for its solar-powered outdoor vending machines, underscore the depth of talent and the innovative spirit within the UAE. These startups, founded by young Emirati entrepreneurs like Abdullah Al Nyassi, Ahmed Al Kaabi, and Saleh Haidarah, reflect a growing trend of sustainable and technologically advanced business models emerging from the region.
The event also provided a stage for students to share their experiences and projects. Mohammed Shawqi and Butti Al Muhairi, from MBR School, presented a versatile new hiking product, illustrating the practical impact of such a platform in fostering real-world applications of student ideas. Similarly, Shamma Al Marzooqi, the founder of Awin, highlighted how the event helped connect her emergency response drone solutions company with essential industry contacts-a
testament to the event’s role in accelerating startup growth and innovation.
Overall, the success of the YouthX Unipreneur event at Expand North Star 2024 emphasizes Dubai’s strategic position as a vibrant technological hub that not only attracts global investments but also supports the development of local startups, driving forward the nation’s digital economy and technological prowess on the international stage.