The State of VC Players in the UAE

 

Recently, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as one of the leading global destinations for tech startups. In 2021, UAE's venture capital ecosystem has invested a staggering $1.2 billion, which is more than twice the amount invested in 2020. Apart from funding, UAE's venture capital firms (VCs) also provide valuable support to founders in areas such as hiring, product development, sales, and marketing. If you're looking for the best VCs in UAE, we have listed our top picks in this article. It's a great place to start if you're looking for information on UAE's venture capital landscape.

Global Ventures

Global Ventures is a venture capital firm that invests in innovative and transformative ideas that make a significant impact. The company seeks to support visionary founders who lead technology companies in their growth stage, which have the potential to revolutionize markets and create a positive impact on society. 

The firm has a diverse team of experts who work collaboratively to help their portfolio companies grow and succeed. Through their network, portfolio companies can access a group of passionate and curious individuals who operate in a rapidly changing and dynamic marketplace.

EQ2 Ventures

EQ2 Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on technology-based startups. Their aim is to support talented entrepreneurs in building successful businesses. The firm was founded by strategic investors who have a strong business legacy and believe in creating long-term value. 

They have a particular focus on the areas they understand well, and where they can mobilize their ecosystem to help entrepreneurs overcome their challenges. Typically, they invest in companies that operate in Ad-tech, eCommerce, Fintech, Health-tech, digital content, Ed-tech, and marketplaces. 

EQ2 Ventures prefers to invest in Seed to Series B stage companies.

Iliad Partners

Iliad Partners is a venture capital firm based in the UAE that invests in early-stage technology companies. They take a hands-on approach to help founders build disruptive companies of the future. The firm primarily targets startups that power the UAE economy by enabling technology and digitization across various sectors. Additionally, they invest in innovative global startups with developed disruptive technologies that fill critical innovation gaps. Iliad Partners works with experienced founders who have strong, fully-committed teams and are well-positioned to execute local solutions suitable for the region. The firm's initial investment ranges from $300K to $1M per portfolio company.

Wamda

Wamda is undoubtedly one of the leading venture capital firms in the UAE, with investments in Turkey and Sub-Saharan Africa as well. The firm is dedicated to accelerating entrepreneurship ecosystems by providing financial funding and research opportunities to its portfolio companies. Wamda invests in post-launch startups that have already generated traction and are looking to grow. 

To attract Wamda's investment, founders must submit a pitch through their contact form, providing adequate information about their idea and demonstrating how they intend to make an impact. The firm's initial investments range between $1M-$5M.

Arzan Venture Capital

Arzan Venture Capital is one of the earliest venture capital firms to invest in the UAE region. Since its establishment in 2014, the firm has been investing in early-stage and rapidly growing innovative technology startups. 

While the firm makes global investments, it mainly focuses on entrepreneurs who are interested in the UAE region. This specific focus allows Arzan Venture Capital to add value and work closely with the startups they fund. 

Overall, the firm is committed to building long-lasting relationships with talented entrepreneurs in the region and ensuring their success. 

Arzan Venture Capital's initial investments typically range from $1 million to $20 million.

Shorooq Partners

Shorooq Partners is a highly regarded technology investor that has carved a niche for itself in emerging markets. The VC firm prides itself on collaborating with exceptional entrepreneurs to build innovative and sustainable businesses. Since its inception, Shorooq Partners has invested in more than 45 portfolio companies, with a portfolio gross equity value of over $1.5 billion.

The VC firm specializes in working with Seed and Series A startups that harness technology to bring about positive change across multiple sectors. Their portfolio companies span a diverse range of industries, including financial services, agriculture, education, healthcare, and more. Shorooq Partners' investment philosophy is centered on identifying promising startups and helping them grow into successful businesses by providing strategic guidance, operational support, and access to a global network of investors.

Shorooq Partners has an impressive track record of consistently scaling up companies and ensuring stronger performance. Their portfolio includes many success stories, and they are committed to continuing their mission to support innovative startups and entrepreneurs in emerging markets