Step Dubai 2025 Launches At Dubai Internet City With Focus On Tech Innovation And Global Growth

Alia bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, inaugurated the 13th annual Step Dubai at Dubai Internet City. This event is a key part of TECOM Group PJSC. The minister was accompanied by senior officials such as Abdulla Belhoul, CEO 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.

"Entrepreneurship is the bedrock of meaningful and impactful innovation that supports long-term economic growth," stated Ammar Al Malik. He emphasised that Step Dubai offers crucial insights into a tech-driven future for emerging entrepreneurs in the region. As a Strategic Partner, Dubai Internet City continues to unite global innovators to drive tech-led advancements in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’.

A significant highlight on the first day was Step's announcement of its ongoing global expansion. This includes launching Step Istanbul on 12 May as its first Host Partner Event, followed by Step San Francisco on 20 August. These events signify a new phase for the brand born in Dubai, aiming to reach new audiences worldwide.

Ray Dargham, co-founder and CEO of Step, remarked during the opening ceremony: "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."

The hosting model introduced last year allows global organisers to replicate Step's unique experience in new locations. Local organisers receive comprehensive support from Step’s team in Dubai. This includes training, programming assistance, production expertise, sponsorship data, event tools, and brand assets. Such backing ensures high-quality events while preserving Step’s distinctive impact.

Over its 13-year history, Step Dubai has facilitated thousands of startups. This year’s edition welcomes over 8,000 attendees and 200 speakers. It also provides access to an impressive $9 billion in funding opportunities.

The event continues to be a pivotal platform for fostering connections among entrepreneurs and investors across the Middle East's technology sector.

With inputs from WAM