Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) initiated the Indonesia Investment Exhibition (IIE) 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on September 2–3, 2025. The event served as a new platform for Indonesian startups to expand globally and open new opportunities for technological development.

Chairman of IIE 2025 Dr. Ir. Arman Hakim Nasution, M.Eng., said the exhibition was a collaboration between the Consulate General of Indonesia in Dubai, Digital Syariah Technology (DST), and the Indonesia Blockchain Centre (IBC) ITS Chapter. A total of 19 companies and several innovative startups participated. “This event is the largest investment exhibition held in Dubai in 2025,” he stated.

Building Networks Between Investors and Startups

Arman explained that IIE 2025 was designed as a platform to connect investors, industry players, startups, and policymakers. The forum aimed to build connections, expand networks, and discover new business opportunities with potential to drive both national and global economies.

“The organization of IIE 2025 is in line with the vision and mission of ITS in developing the ecosystem of startups and innovators,” he said.

Strengthening Branding Through Diplomatic Ties

The decision to hold the first IIE in Dubai was closely tied to ITS’s strong relationship with the Consulate General in Dubai and the Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. Arman noted that this diplomatic network played an important role in attracting investor interest.

He added that the exhibition also strengthened ITS’s international branding as a facilitator of cross-border investment forums. For startups, the program offered valuable experience through stages of selection, curation, and guidance after receiving funding.

Signing MoUs with Leading Universities in Dubai

In his opening remarks, Arman also announced the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading universities in Dubai. The agreements cover three fields: renewable energy and sustainability, artificial intelligence, and health and biotechnology.

“The strength of the economy comes from innovation, and innovation comes from research in universities,” he said. Arman hoped the research and education collaborations would enhance the economic potential of both countries.

Supporting Sustainable Development Goals

The initiative reflects ITS’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. Arman, a doctoral alumnus of Gadjah Mada University, emphasized that the exhibition could contribute significantly to Indonesia’s economic growth in its 80th year of independence.

“Hopefully, this event will continue to grow in the future to strengthen economic and educational cooperation between the UAE and Indonesia,” he said.

PHOTO: ITS

This article was created with AI assistance.