On November 7, 2025, Captain’s Table, a global platform that connects maritime startups with investors, accelerators and industry leaders, will host its first Middle East edition in Dubai at the Marine Technology Expo Day.
Founded in Hong Kong, Captain’s Table has become one of the industry’s leading launchpads for maritime innovation, giving start-ups the opportunity to pitch their ideas against some of the most influential names in shipping, logistics and investment.
This year, Shipping and Freight Resource (SFR) joins as an official media partner, boosting the event’s visibility and global reach across the shipping, transportation, logistics and trade ecosystem.
Why Dubai and why now…??
Dubai’s maritime industry has long been a pillar of trade between East and West. Now, with a doubling of innovation, digitization and sustainability in the region, it provides a fertile ground for startups tackling real-world transport, logistics and supply chain challenges.
The expansion of Captain’s Desk to the Middle East is a decisive step that connects the technology-driven ecosystems of Asia with the investment power and maritime heritage of the Persian Gulf.
After a successful London show day at London International Shipping Week (LISW) in September 2025, and ahead of the Hong Kong flagship finale on 20 November at Hong Kong Maritime Week (HKMW), all eyes now turn to Dubai.
Meet the finalists
Five exceptional maritime and supply chain startups will pitch live to a distinguished audience of investors, industry leaders and judges:
Each finalist represents a new approach to solving today’s biggest maritime challenges, from AI-based analytics and blockchain logistics to fleet sustainability and optimization.
Panel Discussion: Innovation Trends in the Maritime Industry
The highlight of this event is the thought-provoking panel discussion entitled “Innovation trends in the marine industryOrganized jointly with the Middle East Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, it features leading voices in the industry:
- Thomas Stjernholm – Business Managing Director, Tumini group
- Ravi Shankar, FICS – Vice President, Middle East Authorized Ship Brokers Institute
- Janani Yagnamurthy – Vice President, PortLog Analytics and ClaimsHub Marcora group
- Vikas Pandey – Founder and CEO, Shipfinex
Together, they will explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence, fintech, and data-driven solutions across the maritime spectrum.
Jury’s Choice Award and Investment Commitment
The competition culminates with the Jury’s Choice Award, chosen by a distinguished panel of judges:
- RK Sethi – COO, YC Ventures
- Rania Tadros – Managing Partner, Stephenson Harwood (Dubai office)
- Mr. Venkatraman Sheshshai (Six) – Chief Executive Officer Shipworkz
Adding an extra layer of excitement, YC Ventures has committed to invest in one of the finalists, underscoring their confidence in the innovation that comes from this ecosystem.
Why you should attend or participate
This is your chance to:
- Engage with promising technologies
- Collaborating with agile innovators to solve real-world maritime problems.
- Be part of the growing wave of digitization of the future of transportation and logistics.
- Connect with strategic partners shaping the digital transformation of shipping, ports and commerce.
- Connect with Co-Founder of Captain’s Desk – Su Yin Anand and Vedika Gupta – Director of Strategy & Growth at Captain’s Desk.
Event details
Global maritime innovation movement
Captain’s Table is more than just a competition. It is a global movement that unites entrepreneurs, investors and shipping professionals who have a vision of a more efficient, sustainable and digital maritime future.
From London to Dubai to Hong Kong, this year’s journey captures the pulse of maritime transformation.
For innovators eager to make an impact, this is your signal. The tide has turned and your chance to ride the wave begins now.
Visit www.captainstable.hk/competitions/dubai to check out participation in this unique event and opportunities to participate.
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