Step Dubai Conference

Step Dubai 2026 marks the 14th iteration of the UAE's leading technology festival, uniting a diverse group of founders, investors, creatives, and tech enthusiasts from across the globe. The festival's theme, “Intelligence Everywhere: The AI Economy,” focuses on the impact of AI on various sectors, including business, finance, technology, and creativity.

Event Statistics:

• Over 8,000 attendees
• More than 400 startups showcasing their innovations
• In excess of 100 participating companies
• $9 billion in available funding

Featured Speakers

Step Dubai 2026 will host prominent figures from the industry and investment sectors:

• Timothy Draper – Draper Associates
• Fadi Ghandour – Wamda Capital
• Mimi Nicklin – Empathy Everywhere
• Wen Sang – Genspark
• Dany Farha – BECO Capital
• Osman Sultan – Fikratech
• Miku Jha – ServiceNow
• Andrew Vranjes – Blockdaemon
• Tamara Pupic – Entrepreneur Middle East

Activities at Step 2026

Entertainment Options

Experience vibrant networking opportunities beyond the conference, featuring food trucks, live music, pop-up vendors, and outdoor activities throughout the festival.

Brand Engagements

Major brands from the technology, FMCG, automotive, and finance sectors will provide interactive experiences for startups and attendees.

Exhibition Spaces

Technology companies will present their innovations, allowing attendees to connect with potential partners and clients while exploring emerging trends.

Networking Events & Meet-Ups

Industry-focused networking gatherings will be organized by venture capitalists, incubators, digital agencies, and other partners.

Startup Programming

With over 400 startups and more than 1,000 entrepreneurs, Step facilitates valuable connections with investors, clients, and partners.

Workshops and Presentations

Four stages will host various workshops and presentations addressing topics such as startups, digital media, fintech, and future technology trends.

Opportunities for Startups

Startup Showcase

Participating startups will receive a complimentary branded booth, priority access to pitch competitions, investor meetings, workshops, meet-ups, and satellite events.

Startup Basecamp

Engage with investors and venture capitalists, showcase products across six tracks, and generate leads.

Pitch Competition

Present your startup to leading investors and industry experts. Previous judges have included:

• Iman Haider – Nuwa Capital
• Medea Nocentini – Global Ventures
• Abdulrahman AlJiffry – 500 Global

Investor Meetings & Mentorship

Schedule one-on-one sessions with regional investors and mentors. Notable past participants include:

• Dania Shahin – Alpha Wave Global
• Hussein Attar – Tech Invest Com
• Anastasiya Golovatenko – Sherpa Communications