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In partnership with Enterprise Singapore, the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) Abu Dhabi Discovery Program aims to accelerate promising Singapore-based tech startups/ SMEs into a vibrant innovation ecosystem and one of the largest consumer markets in UAE. Startups will have the opportunity to work with leading corporates in UAE through Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi,
UAE
In partnership with:
Program Benefits
Gain New Market Insights
GIA Abu Dhabi Discovery Program features practical workshops that introduce the UAE market landscape—covering key industries, growth opportunities, and entry pathways. You’ll also learn how to scale your business and address critical challenges before making your soft landing in the UAE.
Networking
Opportunities
The program offers startups access to top corporates and venture capitalists for high-impact networking, mentorship, and strategic market entry support in the UAE.
Tailored Mentorship and Guidance
Be paired with experts who understand the UAE market, business growth, and industry leaders. Great mentors can help startups avoid costly mistakes and achieve their goals.
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Direct Market Access
In-market immersion through face-to-face engagements with UAE corporates, conglomerates, and venture capital firms—enhanced by exclusive opportunities to join GITEX and Expand North Star. These leading conferences connect you directly with key stakeholders, investors, and industry leaders to accelerate market access and expansion opportunities in the UAE.
Program Timeline
Go to Market Strategy Virtual Workshops and Office Hours
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UAE Market Landscape and Go to Market Strategy
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Industry-focused workshops with GCC experts
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Business culture training
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1:1 sessions with lead mentors that will help you structure your go-to-market approach throughout the program
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Plug and Play UAE office hours
Week 1
Investment Strategy Virtual Workshop and Office Hours
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Investment landscape and Strategy
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Investor-readines
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1:1 investor introductions with Plug and Play's VC network
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Strategy refinement with mentors
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Plug and Play UAE office hours available
Week 2
Immersion Week (GITEX and Expand North Star Access)
and Office Hours
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Focus: Ecosystem Access & GITEX Tech Conference
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In-person meetings with UAE corporates and government partners
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Entry to GITEX Global (discounted tickets)
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Receive a tailored UAE handbook for this program
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Plug and Play UAE office hours available
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Office access in Al Khatem Tower in Abu Dhabi
Week 3
Post-Program Support
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Final Mentor Session: A dedicated 1:1 session with your lead mentor to reflect on outcomes, validate strategic direction, and fine-tune your UAE go-to-market approach.
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Market Expansion Plan: As a final deliverable, you will receive a tailored market expansion plan created in collaboration with your lead mentor, which consolidates ecosystem leads, partner recommendations, investor touch points, and concrete next steps to support your UAE market launch.
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4 Weeks of Office Hours Access: Continued 1:1 support from the Plug and Play UAE team during the month following the program to support follow-ups and final asks.
Week 4 -6
Here's why the UAE should be the
next destination for your startup
The UAE’s rapidly expanding economy offers startups a thriving, growth‑driven platform.
GDP growth projected around 5.1% in 2025, well above the global average, the UAE is outpacing peers in the GCC and emerging market
With universal digital adoption, the UAE provides startups exposure and scale.
With approximately 11.1 million UAE residents, are active internet users, reflecting one of the highest penetration rates globally . This ensures that startups can instantly reach a fully engaged, tech-savvy audience across the country.
The UAE welcomes global tech-entrepreneurs with seamless business registration and full foreign ownership.
The market is built to support international players with world-class infrastructure. Its business-friendly environment makes it easy to launch, scale, and grow with confidence.
Strategically positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, the UAE serves as a powerful launchpad for global expansion.
With access to over 2.5 billion consumers within regional connectivity. This prime location makes it easier for businesses to enter high-growth markets and scale internationally with speed.
Access to Global Talent
