Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

UAE Emerges as Startup Capital with AED 600M Funding

11/1/2025

40 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The United Arab Emirates is emerging as the Middle East's startup capital, with Hub71, the MBR Innovation Fund (MBRIF), and Flat6Labs delivering funding and mentorship.
Since 2016, the MBR Innovation Fund has facilitated over AED 600 million in financing for more than 120 innovators.
Hub71, backed by the Abu Dhabi government, saw startups raise AED 8 billion in 2024, and Intelak, StartAD, and Sheraa support hundreds of startups across sectors.

History

Historical Context

The UAE's focus on innovation began in the 1970s with Sheikh Zayed's collaboration with NASA, leading to the establishment of a national space sector. The UAE Space Agency was founded in 2014, and initiatives like the MBR Innovation Fund, launched in 2016, have since facilitated over AED 600 million for entrepreneurs, positioning Abu Dhabi as a key startup hub in the Middle East's post-oil economy.

1 of 2

Story summary

The United Arab Emirates is emerging as the Middle East's startup capital, with Hub71, the MBR Innovation Fund (MBRIF), and Flat6Labs delivering funding and mentorship.
Since 2016, the MBR Innovation Fund has facilitated over AED 600 million in financing for more than 120 innovators.
Hub71, backed by the Abu Dhabi government, saw startups raise AED 8 billion in 2024, and Intelak, StartAD, and Sheraa support hundreds of startups across sectors.

1 / 2