Welcome to #GITEXGLOBAL, where the brightest minds in tech converge to showcase innovations and shape the future.
? Grab your visitor pass now: https://t.co/2SIvlYkoCK#GITEXGLOBAL #GITEXAFRICA #GITEXASIA #GITEXEUROPE #GITEXNIGERIA pic.twitter.com/xEy7IDGxhV
— GITEX GLOBAL (@GITEX_GLOBAL) October 15, 2024
The UAE has expressed its willingness to partner with the Nigerian government to support the development of its burgeoning tech startup ecosystem. Khalfan Belhoul, the Chief Executive of the Dubai Future Foundation, made this announcement on Sunday at the ongoing GITEX Global, the world’s largest startup and investor show, in Dubai. Belhoul, who spearheads the UAE’s smart city strategy, emphasized the importance of fostering innovation and forming partnerships to stimulate growth in the digital economy.
“There are a lot of inventions in Nigeria, and more can be done.
What an incredible kickoff to #GITEXGLOBAL!
Day 1 went beyond expectations with visionary speakers, global tech leaders, and dynamic showcases of the latest in innovation.
#GITEXGLOBAL #GITEXAFRICA #GITEXASIA #GITEXEUROPE #GITEXNIGERIA pic.twitter.com/MMLnlHcviU
— GITEX GLOBAL (@GITEX_GLOBAL) October 14, 2024
We are very much open to collaboration regarding technology development, but it’s about having the right conversations,” he said. Nigeria has a robust startup ecosystem, with some companies already making inroads into the UAE region.
Belhoul highlighted the sector’s potential. Nigeria is asserting itself as a central figure in Africa’s digital transformation. The country boasts a vibrant tech startup culture with substantial investments in fintech, e-commerce, and other technology-driven sectors.
#RTA features a distinctive stand at the #GITEX2024, the premier and largest gathering of technology creators and developers worldwide, positioning #Dubai as a global pathway for technology and innovation. The on-going event kicked off, October 14, and will run until October 18… pic.twitter.com/aUl6hbKCmU
— RTA (@rta_dubai) October 14, 2024
UAE and Nigeria tech collaboration
Lagos, in particular, has emerged as a major hub, housing over 400 startups.
Heading to GITEX 2024? Everything's under control around Dubai World Trade Centre with #RTA! Follow our socials for real-time traffic updates, and remember, #DubaiMetro is your fastest, most convenient way to the event.#YourGitexCommutePartner
— RTA (@rta_dubai) October 14, 2024
According to ‘Africa: The Big Deal,’ a report monitoring deals announced by startups on the continent, Nigerian startups attracted 35% of the $466 million in total funding secured by the African tech sector between January and March 2024.
Moove, a transport tech startup, accounted for two-thirds of the funding directed to Nigeria in the first quarter of 2024. Data from The Big Deal reveals that over the past five years, Nigerian startups received the largest share of funds raised by African startups, making up 29% of the $15 billion in total investments. In light of the migration of African talent to Dubai, Belhoul stressed the need for increased investment in research and development and talent development to ensure the long-term sustainability of startups.
“There has to be investment in R&D and talent development,” he noted, underscoring these as essential for maintaining growth and competitiveness in the digital economy. The UAE’s openness to partnering with Nigeria aligns with its broader ambition to become a global hub for innovation. By leveraging its established infrastructure and business-friendly environment, the UAE aims to attract entrepreneurs and investors.
GITEX Global, organized by KAOUN International, runs from October 13-18, 2024, and is recognized as the world’s largest and most trusted tech and startup event.
