Khalifa University of Science and Technology has launched TouchRIPE, the UAE’s first handheld fruit ripeness device as part of its latest research-driven innovations, while also featuring 10 Deep Tech startups at two of the world’s largest tech events, GITEX Global 2025 and Expand North Star 2025, reinforcing its leadership in research innovation, talent development, and technology commercialisation.
A US patent has already been filed for TouchRIPE, which is being showcased within the Abu Dhabi Government Pavilion, Hall-19, at GITEX. At Expand North Star 2025, hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, (Hall 6, Stand H6-A30) the Khalifa Innovation Centre (KIC), an incubation centre that supports startups through commercialisation of locally developed high-technologies, is featuring 10 Deep Tech startups led by Khalifa University researchers focusing AI, robotics, health, energy, and sustainability solutions.
GITEX Global 2025, taking place from 13-17 October at the Dubai World Trade Centre, and Expand North Star 2025, from 12-15 October at Dubai Harbour, bring together global leaders, innovators, and startups shaping the future of digital transformation.
Prof. Bayan Sharif, Provost at Khalifa University, said: “Khalifa University’s participation at GITEX Global 2025 and Expand North Star underscores its role as a catalyst for national talent development, technology commercialisation, and the UAE’s vision for a knowledge-based economy. A key spotlight, in addition to 10 startups by KIC, is the launch of the TouchRIPE agri-tech innovation, built and developed in the UAE by Khalifa University researchers. These future technologies remain an example of how Khalifa University’s research translates into real-world impact, advancing the UAE’s leadership in innovation and technology-driven sustainability.”
Developed by researchers at Khalifa University, TouchRIPE, which weighs only 135 grams, can operate without an internet connection, making it ideal for on-field use. The thumb-mounted, wrist-connected device estimates fruit firmness in under 30 seconds using a vision-based tactile sensor and embedded AI. It mimics human touch, enabling farmers, inspectors, and agri-businesses to assess fruit ripeness non-destructively, helping reduce waste, improve harvest timing, and enhance quality control across the food supply chain.
Among the featured startups by KIC at Expand North Star is Nutrigenics Care, an AI-powered clinical nutrition platform to streamline dietary management, which has been accepted into the Microsoft Founders Hub. Also showcased are Deep Forecast, which delivers AI-based geospatial intelligence for environmental monitoring; DroneLeaf, developing autonomous AI-driven UAV solutions; and Kumrah AI, a spin-off from Khalifa University’s Advanced Research and Innovation Center (ARIC) specialising in neuromorphic vision systems for robotics and industrial inspection.
The lineup further features IBSAR Technologies, an AI research and consultancy specializing in image and video analytics; Laboos Technologies, which develops energy-efficient medical wearables; and Mashyah Health, offering data-driven rehabilitation tool. Also included are Biotechnology startup Proscreenix; Stellaria (formerly Farmin), to deliver urban and environmental insights for smart city planning; and Verdisol, which advances sustainable agriculture and circular economy practices.
