The UAE–India CEPA Start-Up Series 2025 is an official initiative launched by the UAE government to attract high-potential Indian startups into the Emirates’ innovation ecosystem. Designed as a gateway to global markets, infrastructure, and capital, the program is open for applications until 31 July 2025 and aims to facilitate cross-border innovation through a structured and well-supported expansion framework.
If you’re an Indian founder building in technology, fintech, artificial intelligence, logistics, green energy, or consumer products, this is a significant opportunity to access UAE funding, business support, and market entry pathways backed by the government.
What Is the UAE–India CEPA Start-Up Series?
The CEPA Start-Up Series is a UAE-led program under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE. It aims to identify and onboard five high-potential Indian startups into the UAE ecosystem through:
- Access to funding and investor networks
- Incubation and mentorship at UAE-based accelerators
- UAE business licensing and soft-landing support
- Support for relocation, including flights, hotel stays, and local logistics
It reflects the UAE’s larger ambition to become a global hub for startups, and aligns with India’s position as a leading innovation partner in the region.
🔗 Official Website: https://start-upseries.cepacouncil.com
Who Should Apply?
The program is open to Indian-registered startups with demonstrable innovation, traction, and international growth ambitions. Applicants should ideally be in one of the following sectors prioritized by the UAE:
- Technology and SaaS
- Fintech and Digital Payments
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Green Energy and Sustainability
- Logistics, Supply Chain, and Mobility
- Consumer Brands (D2C, FMCG, or Retail Tech)
Founders from both metro and non-metro areas are eligible to apply. The initiative is inclusive and focuses on quality of innovation, not just location or size.
Key Dates and Application Process
Application Deadline: 31 July 2025
The program runs through a structured 5-stage evaluation:
1. Application Submission (Until 31 July 2025)
Startups apply online through the official website with company and product details.
2. Shortlisting (August 2025)
A jury evaluates applications based on a scoring system that includes:
- Innovation and scalability
- Sector fit with UAE priorities
- Founders’ background and execution capability
- UAE expansion potential
3. Pitch Deck Evaluation (September 2025)
Shortlisted applicants submit a detailed pitch deck. Evaluation focuses on strategy, traction, and UAE go-to-market readiness.
4. Final Pitch Event in Delhi (Mid-October 2025)
Top 20 startups are invited to present live before a jury panel. The final Top 5 are selected based on merit.
5. Onboarding in UAE (November 2025 Onward)
Winners begin incubation at a UAE accelerator, receive mentorship, and access soft-landing support including:
- Office and infrastructure setup
- Business license facilitation
- Investor and commercial introductions
- Return flight tickets, accommodation, meals, and transport
Benefits for Selected Startups
The Top 5 selected startups receive a comprehensive support package, including:
- Free incubation at a UAE-based accelerator
- Mentorship from domain experts and UAE entrepreneurs
- Introductions to UAE-based investors and potential partners
- Business setup assistance, including license, visa, and tax registration
- Travel and accommodation costs covered for initial relocation
This support is designed to help founders reduce friction, operate compliantly, and grow faster within the UAE’s globally connected startup ecosystem.
Strategic Context: Why the UAE?
The UAE is positioning itself as a leading innovation and investment destination. As of 2025, it offers:
- 100% foreign ownership in many sectors
- Zero corporate tax for qualifying free zone startups (with conditions)
- Multiple startup visa and golden visa pathways
- A vibrant network of VCs, accelerators, and innovation hubs in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah
- Proximity to GCC, European, African, and Asian markets
- Strong India–UAE business relations under the CEPA agreement
The UAE government sees Indian startups as a strategic fit and is actively enabling cross-border migration of innovation and entrepreneurship.
How AB Capital Services Can Help
If you’re selected or planning expansion into the UAE, AB Capital Services can provide end-to-end support, including:
- Business setup in mainland or free zone jurisdictions
- Startup visa or golden visa assistance
- Corporate bank account opening
- Tax registration, advisory, and compliance
- Office space and PRO services
Our team is experienced in helping Indian entrepreneurs navigate the UAE’s legal, banking, and business systems with clarity and speed.
FAQs
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Indian-registered startups in priority sectors with innovation, traction, and international potential.
2. What support do the Top 5 winners receive?
Fully sponsored incubation in the UAE, including flights, hotel, local transport, licensing help, and investor access.
3. Is relocation to the UAE mandatory?
Not immediately, but finalists are expected to explore UAE expansion and benefit from the incubation support offered.
4. Can pre-revenue startups apply?
Yes, if the idea is innovative and supported by a strong execution plan.
5. How long does the program run?
The application phase ends in July 2025, pitches conclude by October, and onboarding starts from November onward.
Conclusion
For Indian startups looking to go global, the UAE–India CEPA Start-Up Series offers a well-supported entry into one of the world’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems. From capital access to regulatory ease, the UAE offers strong advantages for scaling your venture.
With applications closing on 31 July 2025, this is a time-sensitive opportunity. If you’re ready to grow, now is the moment to act.
About AB Capital Services
AB Capital Services is a UAE-based business advisory firm supporting global entrepreneurs with low cost business setup services, banking, visas, and tax solutions. We specialize in helping Indian founders set up and expand their ventures in the UAE with full compliance, efficiency, and local insight.
Disclaimer: The details in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations. For the most accurate and up-to-date advice, please consult with a licensed business advisor or reach out to AB Capital Services directly.
Very Nice and informative blog.