UAE Rolls Out Support Package for Five Indian Startups Under CEPA

November 27, 2025

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Why in the news?

The Hub71 startup-ecosystem and the UAE–India CEPA Council have unveiled a “soft-landing” support package for five Indian startups, aiming to help them set up operations in the UAE and scale globally.

Launched in June 2025, the UAE–India Start-Up Series attracted over 10,000 applications from founders across India.

After multiple evaluation rounds, initial screening, pitch-deck review, and a final panel pitching the pool was narrowed to 20, and ultimately five winning startups were selected.

The five chosen ventures cover a broad range of domains:

DocketRun — a legal-tech platform for contract management.
StepOut — a sports-tech company focusing on AI-enabled football performance analysis.
Ease My AI — offers AI-powered automation and digital transformation solutions.
BioReform — a sustainability startup developing biodegradable alternatives to plastic.
Endimension — a health-tech venture specialising in 3D medical imaging.0 93

What the Soft-Landing Package Includes

The selected startups will receive a comprehensive package designed to simplify their entry into the UAE market.

The support includes visas, accommodation during the immersion phase, and transport assistance.

Additionally, the programme will help founders navigate business setup requirements such as trade licences and compliance processes.

A major highlight is access to mentorship and curated networking opportunities with potential investors, industry experts, and business leaders in the UAE.

Beginning January 2026, the startups will join a structured immersion programme that combines virtual sessions for market-readiness training with in-person engagements in Abu Dhabi.

This setup aims to prepare the startups for real expansion by connecting them directly to the UAE’s tech ecosystem and growth platforms.

Why This Programme Matters

The sheer number of applications—over 10,000—shows the strong interest among Indian founders in exploring global markets.

By choosing startups from different sectors and stages, the CEPA Council signals that its initiative is wide-ranging and merit-focused.

It also showcases the UAE’s growing interest in attracting diverse innovation from India and positioning itself as a launchpad for technology-driven companies aiming for global reach.

For the selected ventures, the programme offers not just market exposure but also credibility, resources, and cross-border scaling potential.

For both countries, it marks a shift in bilateral cooperation—from traditional trade towards innovation-led economic collaboration.

[Credits for header image: G2learning hub

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. This has been constituted based on third-party sources. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on this information.]