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Mid East Info
17-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Abu Dhabi Startup Ecosystem Ranks 3rd in MENA for Performance Amid Global Slowdown - Middle East Business News and Information
Startup Genome launches the world's most comprehensive report on startup ecosystems, released at VivaTech Paris Abu Dhabi, UAE — June, 2025 —Abu Dhabi's startup ecosystem has made remarkable strides, emerging as one of the fastest-growing hubs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), according to the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) launched today at VivaTech in Paris. Recognized as the world's most comprehensive research on startup ecosystems, the GSER leverages the largest quality-controlled dataset in the industry, analyzing data from over 5 million companies across 350+ entrepreneurial innovation ecosystems worldwide. The GSER 2025 highlights Abu Dhabi's impressive leap into the top emerging global ecosystems, ranking in the #51-60 tier, up from its previous #61-70 position. This advancement comes despite a global 14% decline in overall startup ecosystem value. Notably, Abu Dhabi generated $4.4 billion (approximately AED 16.2 billion) in Ecosystem Value between July 1, 2022, and December 31, 2024, marking a 6% annual growth. Abu Dhabi also ranked 3rd in the MENA region for Performance, a category that evaluates startup success through valuations and exit activity. This recognition reinforces Abu Dhabi's position as a dynamic, results-driven hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. 'Abu Dhabi's rise in the global rankings is a testament to the exceptional pace and cohesion of its innovation ecosystem, with Hub71 at the heart of this transformation. Amid a global downturn in startup ecosystem value, Abu Dhabi's long-term vision is beginning to pay off – demonstrating bold leadership and collaborative strength. We expect this momentum to continue, with Abu Dhabi poised to grow at a faster rate than many global peers in the years ahead.' says Samantha Evans, Managing Director MENA, Startup Genome. The report also places Abu Dhabi among the top five ecosystems in MENA across several core categories, including Knowledge, Funding, and Talent & Experience. Additionally, the emirate was recognized among the region's best for 'Bang for Buck,' reflecting efficient use of venture capital and a strong return on investment. Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, said: 'Abu Dhabi's rise in global rankings reflects the strength of our startup community and the impact of Hub71's ecosystem-enabling initiatives. Over the past six years, Hub71 has built a connected network of founders, investors, corporates, and global partners, enabling sustainable startup growth, international scaling, and the evolution of Abu Dhabi's early-stage technology landscape. This progress is driven by Abu Dhabi's deliberate focus on innovation and technology, alongside an increasingly agile business and regulatory environment. Hub71 and its startups continue to benefit from a compelling Abu Dhabi value proposition, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to the emirate's economic and technological ambitions.' Sectoral drivers of startup growth in Abu Dhabi: FinTech, ClimateTech, and Digital Assets are key strengths of Abu Dhabi's innovation landscape, supported extensively by strategic regulatory frameworks, and sector-specific infrastructure. Key developments including ADGM's expanded licensing frameworks, substantial venture funding, and strategic partnerships in sustainability-focused enterprises, and strategic alliances in blockchain technology, exemplify the emirate's deliberate and cohesive strategy for long-term economic diversification and innovation. Why startups choose Abu Dhabi: The emirate's appeal lies in forward-thinking policies, such as streamlined regulatory procedures and targeted government support for technology-driven sectors. Initiatives such as Khalifa Fund's MZN HUB are pivotal in bridging local startups with international innovation networks, further amplifying Abu Dhabi's global entrepreneurial influence. The GSER is widely regarded as the most comprehensive evaluation of global startup ecosystems, offering data-driven insights essential for policymakers, ecosystem leaders, and entrepreneurs worldwide. Abu Dhabi's consistent rise in global rankings over the past three years highlights the strength of its strategy and the growth of its startup ecosystem, positioning the emirate as a leading global hub for innovation. About HUB71: Hub71 is Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem that enables founders to build globally enduring homegrown tech companies in any sector by providing access to global markets, a capital ecosystem, a global network of partners, and a vibrant community filled with highly skilled talent governed by forward-thinking regulation. Backed by the Government of Abu Dhabi and Mubadala Investment Company, Hub71 is growing its vibrant community of tech startups, investors, government, and corporate partners to ensure the availability of investment, commercial activities, and incentives from the public and private sectors. Through Hub71's entrepreneurial infrastructure, value-add programs, enabling services and support packages, founders can build, and scale widely adopted technologies with purpose and impact. Hub71 is on a mission to introduce new minds and technologies to Abu Dhabi, finding new ways to build globally enduring technology companies and sustain the nation's continuous economic development. About STARTUP GENOME: Startup Genome is the world-leading innovation ecosystem development organization, having worked with more than 180 economic and innovation ministries and public/private agencies in over 65 countries. We work to catalyze startup success and ecosystem growth and ensure that all cities and countries capture their fair share of the new economy. Startup Genome strategy clients grew their ecosystem values 59% faster than peers (41% vs. 25%). On average, Startup Genome clients produced $1.4 billion per year more in ecosystem value from an average starting point of $9.2 billion. Our evidence-based ecosystem research, advisory, and scaleup programs are rooted in global experience with the world's largest AI-curated startup dataset and proprietary instruments developed from over a decade of primary research.
Fintech News ME
28-05-2025
- Business
- Fintech News ME
Hub71 Partners with Yas Investments to Connect Startups with Private Capital
Hub71, Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem, has entered into a strategic partnership with Yas Investments, a multi-family investment platform and fund manager, to support greater investor participation in the UAE's venture capital sector. The collaboration aims to link high-potential startups with private capital, offering opportunities for strategic investment and business growth. Yas Investments, which invests through Spartech Ventures, brings extensive experience in both global and regional markets. The firm has a track record in identifying and supporting high-growth investment opportunities, with a focus on contributing to the region's evolving economic landscape. As family offices emerge as a key source of long-term capital for startups, providing not only funding but also strategic input and industry knowledge, this partnership will make use of Hub71's Tech Barza platform. Tech Barza is designed to connect regional family offices with a network of more than 300 startups within Hub71's ecosystem. Through this partnership, Yas Investments will work to broaden investor engagement, helping startups refine product-market fit, scale operations, and access new markets. The firm will also assist in developing investor profiles for Tech Barza members, allowing for more targeted connections between startups and investors. Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, said: 'Driving investment and corporate deal opportunities is essential to fuelling startup growth. Through our Tech Barza family office network, Hub71 is creating new pathways that support Abu Dhabi's position as a leading global tech destination.' Yagub Alserkal, CEO at Yas Investments, said: 'Through this partnership, we aim to bridge the gap between family offices and high-potential startups, facilitating strategic investments that unlock value for both investors and entrepreneurs.' In addition to capital investment, the partnership is expected to promote closer collaboration between investors and startups, including strategic guidance and mentorship. By enabling family offices to explore corporate deal-making alongside financial investment, the initiative seeks to create broader business opportunities and long-term value.
Gulf Insider
16-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Hub71 and Google Launch AI Startups in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi's Hub71 and Google have launched the Google for Startups Accelerator, a joint programme to scale AI-focused startups within Hub71+ AI. A total of 26 startups from the Hub71 community have been selected to join the inaugural cohort, gaining access to a tailored three-month curriculum. Startups will gain access to Google's global network of mentors, engineers, product leaders and Google Cloud credits. Abu Dhabi startups Top-performing startups will be eligible for up to $300,000 in credits, the highest tier of support available through the programme globally. They will also be considered for Google Cloud Platform (GCP) ecosystem tier credit allocations, further expanding their technical capabilities. These startups, already based within the Hub71 community, have previously benefited from up to AED500,000 ($136,000) in funding support, including AED250,000 ($68,000) in in-kind support services, AED250,000 ($68,000) in cash via a SAFE note and tailored mentorship. Now, through the Google for Startups Accelerator, they are gaining access to a powerful network of partners, technical experts and business development opportunities within the Hub71+ AI ecosystem, further strengthening their ability to scale globally from Abu Dhabi. Ahmad Ali Alwan, Chief Executive Officer of Hub71, said: 'Bringing the Google for Startups Accelerator to Abu Dhabi is a key milestone in advancing our position as a global centre for AI innovation. Together with Google, we are empowering founders to develop transformative technologies that address real-world challenges. 'Our ambition is for startups from Abu Dhabi to compete globally, lead with purpose, and create lasting impact.' Doron Avni, Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy (GAPP) for Emerging Markets at Google, said: 'Startups are at the forefront of solving critical challenges with AI, and our partnership with Hub71 is about equipping them with the resources to go further, faster. 'Through this accelerator, we are enabling Hub71 startups access to global expertise and infrastructure, so they can build AI solutions that make a real impact, both regionally and around the world.' Alongside mentorship and technical resources, Google will provide early-stage founders with tailored playbooks and toolkits, as well as introductions to its investment arms and Alphabet's wider network, opening doors to new funding and commercial opportunities. The launch follows the strategic agreement signed in late 2024 to bring Google's startup programme to Abu Dhabi, reinforcing a shared ambition to expand access to advanced digital infrastructure, attract top talent, and foster cross-border collaboration in AI. As Abu Dhabi continues to invest in emerging technologies, the accelerator programme marks a significant milestone in its journey to becoming a global centre for AI. With the support of a global tech leader and world-class ecosystem, selected startups are poised to scale breakthrough innovations and shape the future of AI from Abu Dhabi to the world. Also Read: Photos: US President Trump Arrives In Abu Dhabi Source Arabian Business
Gulf Today
15-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Google for Startups Accelerator welcomes 26 Hub71 ventures
Hub71, Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem, and Google have launched the Google for Startups Accelerator, a joint programme to scale AI-focused startups within Hub71+ AI, the ecosystem's specialist vertical, and drive innovation across high-impact sectors from Abu Dhabi. A total of 26 startups from the Hub71 community have been selected to join the inaugural cohort, gaining access to a tailored three-month curriculum. Startups will gain access to Google's global network of mentors, engineers, product leaders and Google Cloud credits. Top-performing startups will be eligible for up to $300,000 in credits, the highest tier of support available through the programme globally. They will also be considered for Google Cloud Platform (GCP) ecosystem tier credit allocations, further expanding their technical capabilities. These startups, already based within the Hub71 community, have previously benefited from up to Dhs500,000 in funding support, including Dhs250,000 in in-kind support services, Dhs250,000 in cash via a SAFE note and tailored mentorship. Now, through the Google for Startups Accelerator, they are gaining access to a powerful network of partners, technical experts and business development opportunities within the Hub71+ AI ecosystem, further strengthening their ability to scale globally from Abu Dhabi. Ahmad Ali Alwan, Chief Executive Officer of Hub71, said, 'Bringing the Google for Startups Accelerator to Abu Dhabi is a key milestone in advancing our position as a global centre for AI innovation. Together with Google, we are empowering founders to develop transformative technologies that address real-world challenges. Our ambition is for startups from Abu Dhabi to compete globally, lead with purpose, and create lasting impact.' Doron Avni, Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy (GAPP) for Emerging Markets at Google, said, 'Startups are at the forefront of solving critical challenges with AI, and our partnership with Hub71 is about equipping them with the resources to go further, faster. Through this accelerator, we are enabling Hub71 startups access to global expertise and infrastructure, so they can build AI solutions that make a real impact, both regionally and around the world.' Alongside mentorship and technical resources, Google will provide early-stage founders with tailored playbooks and toolkits, as well as introductions to its investment arms and Alphabet's wider network, opening doors to new funding and commercial opportunities. The launch follows the strategic agreement signed in late 2024 to bring Google's startup programme to Abu Dhabi, reinforcing a shared ambition to expand access to advanced digital infrastructure, attract top talent, and foster cross-border collaboration in AI. As Abu Dhabi continues to invest in emerging technologies, the accelerator programme marks a significant milestone in its journey to becoming a global centre for AI. With the support of a global tech leader and world-class ecosystem, selected startups are poised to scale breakthrough innovations and shape the future of AI from Abu Dhabi to the world. Last year, Hub71, Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem, signed a strategic partnership with Google to accelerate startup growth in the UAE. This partnership introduces Google's startup programme, Google for Startups' to Abu Dhabi, creating unique opportunities for Hub71 startups to continue a fulfilling growth journey from Abu Dhabi. The collaboration between Google and Hub71 uniquely positions the Abu Dhabi tech ecosystem as a global hub, advancing innovation and growth opportunities for startups in the UAE and beyond. During a signing ceremony with representatives from Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Mubadala Investment Company, Google and Hub71, it was announced that through this strategic collaboration, Google will launch a dedicated accelerator programme in 2025, selecting 25 high-potential startups from Hub71's ecosystem for a three-month programme focused on scalable growth strategies and optimising business models. Additionally, all startups within the Hub71 community will be eligible for substantial Google Cloud credits, with top-performing startups accessing up to US$300,000 in credits – the highest tier available globally. In addition, Google will offer tailored playbooks to support early-stage ventures within Hub71's community. Hub71 startups will benefit from Google's mentor network, connecting them with global industry leaders and experts. Google will also introduce Hub71 startups to its relevant investment divisions and its parent company, Alphabet, creating the potential for funding conversations centred on innovation and technology transformation. WAM
Arabian Business
15-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Google and Hub71 to support AI startups in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi's Hub71 and Google have launched the Google for Startups Accelerator, a joint programme to scale AI-focused startups within Hub71+ AI. A total of 26 startups from the Hub71 community have been selected to join the inaugural cohort, gaining access to a tailored three-month curriculum. Startups will gain access to Google's global network of mentors, engineers, product leaders and Google Cloud credits. Abu Dhabi startups Top-performing startups will be eligible for up to $300,000 in credits, the highest tier of support available through the programme globally. They will also be considered for Google Cloud Platform (GCP) ecosystem tier credit allocations, further expanding their technical capabilities. These startups, already based within the Hub71 community, have previously benefited from up to AED500,000 ($136,000) in funding support, including AED250,000 ($68,000) in in-kind support services, AED250,000 ($68,000) in cash via a SAFE note and tailored mentorship. Now, through the Google for Startups Accelerator, they are gaining access to a powerful network of partners, technical experts and business development opportunities within the Hub71+ AI ecosystem, further strengthening their ability to scale globally from Abu Dhabi. Ahmad Ali Alwan, Chief Executive Officer of Hub71, said: 'Bringing the Google for Startups Accelerator to Abu Dhabi is a key milestone in advancing our position as a global centre for AI innovation. Together with Google, we are empowering founders to develop transformative technologies that address real-world challenges. 'Our ambition is for startups from Abu Dhabi to compete globally, lead with purpose, and create lasting impact.' Doron Avni, Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy (GAPP) for Emerging Markets at Google, said: 'Startups are at the forefront of solving critical challenges with AI, and our partnership with Hub71 is about equipping them with the resources to go further, faster. 'Through this accelerator, we are enabling Hub71 startups access to global expertise and infrastructure, so they can build AI solutions that make a real impact, both regionally and around the world.' Alongside mentorship and technical resources, Google will provide early-stage founders with tailored playbooks and toolkits, as well as introductions to its investment arms and Alphabet's wider network, opening doors to new funding and commercial opportunities. The launch follows the strategic agreement signed in late 2024 to bring Google's startup programme to Abu Dhabi, reinforcing a shared ambition to expand access to advanced digital infrastructure, attract top talent, and foster cross-border collaboration in AI. As Abu Dhabi continues to invest in emerging technologies, the accelerator programme marks a significant milestone in its journey to becoming a global centre for AI. With the support of a global tech leader and world-class ecosystem, selected startups are poised to scale breakthrough innovations and shape the future of AI from Abu Dhabi to the world.
