The UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has announced the launch of the Startup Global Exchange Program 2025, a groundbreaking initiative designed to connect UAE-based and international startups with new markets, mentors, incubators, and investors.
Unveiled at Make it in the Emirates 2025, the UAE’s premier industrial gathering, this program underscores the nation’s dedication to advancing future-ready industries as part of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology. Its goal is to strengthen global startup ecosystems and encourage international collaboration through immersive, two-way exchanges, WAM reported.
The inaugural pilot will commence with Japan, opening doors for tech-driven startups to expand their global presence and scale solutions across borders.
This pilot program is set to debut in September 2025 at the Osaka Expo, in partnership with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Following this, in October, the UAE will host Japanese startups for a reciprocal exchange, organized in collaboration with national incubators and ecosystem partners.
Benefits for selected startups in the program
Startups chosen for the program will gain access to immersive placements in innovation hubs, personalized mentorship, exposure to dynamic international customer bases, and connections with global investors and industry leaders. Each cycle will encompass a selection, onboarding, and international placement phase, with an expectation of 10 to 12 startups participating in each cycle.
While Japan serves as the first partner, MoIAT is actively collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to broaden the program into other high-potential markets.
Moreover, by enhancing global visibility and nurturing long-term partnerships, the Startup Global Exchange Program exemplifies the UAE’s ambition to become a hub for industrial innovation and a launchpad for the world’s most promising startups—an ambition strongly reinforced through Make it in the Emirates 2025.
Held under the theme “Advanced Industries. Accelerated,” Make it in the Emirates 2025 is anticipated to be the largest edition to date, featuring over 700 exhibitors and showcasing more than 3,800 locally manufactured products across an exhibition space of over 68,000 square meters. Attendance is expected to exceed 30,000 people.
The event builds on more than AED160 billion in offtake opportunities linked to over 4,800 products identified for local manufacture.
Make it in the Emirates further reinforces the UAE’s commitment to advancing industry, fostering strategic partnerships, and accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies.
