There was a time when the UAE painted a picture of gulfs and oil businesses. However, with the growth of technology, the UAE has embraced the change and taken active steps to promote diversity in its business ecosystem. They invested in innovation and research to expand its business offerings and bring revenue from diverse sources. The heart of their growth is their startup ecosystem, which supports innovative ideas, improves lifestyle and brings foreign investment.
This blog is about the UAE Startup Ecosystem and how to connect startups with investors.
Why Is The UAE Startup Ecosystem Lucrative?
UAE has become a hub for an innovative and lucrative startup ecosystem. The ecosystem will contribute to their goal of growing the national digital economy to USD 140 Billion from the current USD 38 Billion (source). They have secured a collective deal of USD 150 Billion from 30 deals in 2023 (source).
This surge is due to a growth-oriented startup ecosystem designed to empower entrepreneurs with knowledge and necessary resources. Let’s take a look at part of the UAE startup ecosystem.
Government Grants for Supporting Startups
The government of UAE has reformed the path for startup entrepreneurs. They have implemented SME regulations to facilitate startups with relaxed taxation and access to resources and finances.
They have also worked on creating supportive infrastructure and funding organizations to improve management and navigation. To attract talented entrepreneurs, they provide UAE golden visas and Dubai startup visas to stay in the UAE and run innovative startups.
Free Zones with Tax Relaxation and Easy Foreign Ownership
Free zones are specified business zones with advanced infrastructure and zero tax to support startups. They support startups from specific industries or with specific needs. The free zones allow easy access to resources and facilitate other management operations to increase profitability. They offer opportunities to establish their startups with 100% foreign ownership to attract foreign entrepreneurs. It encourages and attracts startups and provides opportunities for startup investment in the UAE.
Startup Incubators and Accelerators for Early-stage Startups
The beginning or early stage of the startup is the most crucial one. Therefore, the UAE business ecosystem focuses on supporting innovative startups at this stage through startup incubators and accelerator programs.
The incubators provide the necessary mentorship and finances to convert the idea into a product or a structured service available to the market.
On the other hand, startup accelerators support startups early, providing them with a supportive workspace, mentorship, funding and fundraising opportunities, and partnership and networking opportunities to nurture the startup and help them grow. A few notable startup incubators and accelerators in UAE are Area 2071, Hub71, Faster Capital, Intelak, and DIFC Fintech Hive.
Venture Capital Firms to Boost Growth
Startups need a significant amount of investment to boost growth and expansion. Here is where venture capital comes into play. Venture capital firms make large-scale investments to help startups grow in return for equity.
Venture capital firms provide industry expertise and guidance to help startups grow and adapt to market trends. A few popular venture capitals in UAE are BECO Capital, Wamda Capital, EQ2 Ventures, Dtec Ventures, Mubadala Ventures, and Venture Souq.
UAE is a hotspot for startups with a favorable startup ecosystem to nurture the startups. But how do you find the resources and investment in the UAE? Simple, through networking! Let’s understand more.
UAE Startup Networking: Connecting Startups With Investors
Networking is a foundational element in holding startups intact in the ever-changing market. Through networking, you can connect with industry experts and learn about the nitty-gritty of your industry.
However, one of the most crucial benefits of networking is connecting with potential business partners and investors. The networking events are a platform connecting startups with investors and vice versa.
Attending a networking event can help you:
- Find investors/startups
- Build industry relationship
- Establish your market presence
- Collect feedback from industry experts
- Learn about the industry from panel discussions
If you have an innovative idea, a startup, or are looking for an opportunity for startup investment in UAE, we have some good news for you: International Investor Summit 2024!
International Investor Summit: Connecting Startups With Investors Globally!
21By72 has a history of organizing Global Startups Summits in India with 25000+ global attendees. These networking events have focused on connecting startups with investors and industry experts for investment and guidance.
Through this event, we have raised $10 Million for our attending startups. The events include startup exhibitions, panel discussions, networking, and pitching events. We are here in the UAE, the hotspot for innovative startups to thrive and succeed.
We are organizing an International Investor Summit in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The startup event will help you access the Abu Dhabi startup network, including investors like angel investors, venture capitalists, and corporate investors. You can also connect with industry leaders and fellow startup owners to build a reliable network and form relationships with potential partners.
The two-day International Investor Summit can help you:
- Connect with global delegates
- Learn from industry experts across the globe
- Exhibit your startup to attract investors and partners
- Build your network across the globe
- Learn about the startup ecosystem of Abu Dhabi and the UAE
So, do you want to grow your startup? Do not miss out on this global summit in Abu Dhabi. We have some amazing discounts for our early birds, so check out the offers and book your seats now!!
Conclusion
UAE is growing tremendously to become an innovation hotspot. The UAE startup ecosystem is designed to connect startups and investors from across the globe. The free zones offering relaxed taxes and 100% foreign ownership attract innovative startups to settle in the UAE. The UAE startup ecosystem also includes investors like angel networks, incubators, accelerators, and VCs to fund and mentor startup growth.
A networking event can help connect startups and investors by organizing pitching events and exhibitions. International Investor Summit is a global networking event happening on the 28th and 29th of November 2024 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It is expected to be attended by global delegates, industry experts, diverse investors, and innovative startups. Do not miss the opportunity to connect with the existing and future market leaders. Book your pass now!
FAQ
What is the UAE startup ecosystem?
The UAE startup ecosystem comprises government institutes and policies, investors, free zones for specific industries, incubators, accelerators, and relevant support systems for startups. Their role is to provide access to resources, mentorship, and guidance to help innovative startups grow and thrive in the market.
How to do startup investment in UAE?
There are diverse methods of startup investment in the UAE. The most common and well-known options are angel investment, venture capital, incubators, accelerators, and pitching events. You can connect with startups or join an Abu Dhabi startup network by attending networking events like the International Investor Summit.
Why is Abu Dhabi popular for connecting startups and investors?
Besides being the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi is the center of commercial business. It houses innovative startups and is a lucrative area attracting investors. The supportive startup ecosystem, government policies, and user market make it the perfect sport for connecting startups and investors through networking events.
