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UAE-India Start-up Series

What is the UAE-India Start-up Series?

The UAE-India Start-up Series is a flagship initiative of the UAE–India CEPA Council, created to promote, support, and connect high-potential Indian Start-ups with meaningful opportunities in UAE and international markets. Anchored in the broader framework of the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), this initiative seeks to deepen cross-border collaboration in the fields of innovation and entrepreneurship by building new bridges between two of the world’s most dynamic ecosystems.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    The Start-up Series is open to high-potential Indian start-ups across sectors that demonstrate strong innovation, business viability, and relevance to the UAE market. Applicants must be Indian-registered entities with a clear product or service offering, market traction, and a roadmap for UAE engagement. The program welcomes Start-ups from both metro and non-metro regions, and actively encourages applications from those aligned with UAE priority sectors

    The selection will take place in three stages:


    • Start-ups will be shortlisted based on written applications.
    • Top 20 will be chosen after a pitch deck evaluation.
    • Final 5 will be selected following a live pitch event in New Delhi

    Each stage involves independent evaluation using a structured scoring rubric that rewards merit, strategic fit, and impact.

    Each stage involves independent evaluation using a structured scoring rubric that rewards merit, strategic fit, and impact.

    24 June 2025 –  Launch of the Series and opening of nationwide applications.

    15 August 2025 – Applications close.

    11 September – Announcement of the Top 500

    25 September – Deadline for shortlisted Start-ups to submit pitch decks

    Early-November – Announcement of Top 20 Start-ups selected for the final pitch event in Delhi.

    End of November – The Grand Pitch Event in Delhi.

    January 2026 – Onboarding of five selected Start-ups into UAE incubation support programs. 

    The five selected Start-ups will receive a fully sponsored soft-landing package in the UAE, including:


    • Incubation at a UAE-based accelerator
    • Mentorship and investor access
    • Round-trip flights and hotel stay
    • Local transport and meal allowance

    Strong applications clearly demonstrate innovation, traction, execution capability, and alignment with the UAE’s priorities. Start-ups should also present a compelling UAE expansion plan and a well-structured pitch deck. Additional bonus points are awarded to ventures operating in UAE priority sectors.