Dubai has emerged as the undisputed startup capital of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, attracting billions of dollars in venture capital investments and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. The emirate’s strategic location, progressive regulatory framework, and ambitious vision have made it a magnet for both innovative startups and seasoned investors looking to capitalize on the region’s tremendous growth potential.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 investors in Dubai who are actively shaping the future of technology, finance, healthcare, and consumer markets across the MENA region. These venture capitalists and investment firms have not only contributed significant capital to the ecosystem but have also brought invaluable expertise, mentorship, and global networks to help startups scale successfully.
Why Dubai Attracts Top-Tier Investors
Before diving into our list of prominent investors, it’s essential to understand what makes Dubai such an attractive investment destination. The city offers a unique combination of factors that create an ideal environment for venture capital activity:
- Strategic Geographic Position: Dubai serves as a gateway between East and West, providing access to markets across Asia, Africa, and Europe. This positioning allows startups based in Dubai to scale regionally and globally more efficiently than those in other emerging markets.
- Government Support: The UAE government has implemented numerous initiatives to support entrepreneurship and innovation, including visa reforms, regulatory sandboxes, and significant investments in technology infrastructure. Programs like the Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund and Dubai Future Accelerators demonstrate the government’s commitment to fostering innovation.
- Diverse Talent Pool: Dubai attracts professionals from around the world, creating a multicultural environment that brings together diverse perspectives and expertise. This talent diversity is particularly valuable for startups looking to address challenges across different markets and cultures.
- Access to Capital: The emirate hosts numerous family offices, sovereign wealth funds, and international investors, providing startups with access to both local and global capital sources.
Now, let’s explore our top investors who are making significant impacts in Dubai’s venture capital landscape.
1. Karan Wats – CEO, HB Investments
Investment Focus: Beauty, Consumer Products, Technology Startups
Investment Stage: Early-stage
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karanwats
Karan Wats stands out as a unique figure in Dubai’s investment landscape, serving as both CEO of HB Investments and Chief Strategy Officer at Huda Beauty. This dual role provides him with an insider’s perspective on the beauty and consumer products industry, making him particularly well-positioned to identify and nurture promising startups in these sectors.
Wats brings a deep understanding of consumer behavior and market dynamics to his investment decisions. His experience at Huda Beauty, one of the most successful beauty brands to emerge from the MENA region, gives him invaluable insights into building and scaling consumer-focused businesses. This background allows him to provide portfolio companies with strategic guidance on brand development, marketing, and international expansion.
HB Investments focuses primarily on early-stage ventures that demonstrate strong potential for disruption in traditional consumer markets. The firm is particularly interested in technology-driven solutions that can enhance the consumer experience, whether through innovative products, improved distribution channels, or enhanced customer engagement platforms.
2. Suneel Gokhale – Co-Founder & General Partner, VentureSouq
Investment Focus: Fintech, Climate Tech, Business Productivity Software, Automotive, Managed Care
Investment Stages: Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, Series B+
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/suneel-gokhale-73270ba
VentureSouq, co-founded by Suneel Gokhale, has established itself as one of the most active and influential venture capital firms in the MENA region. The firm’s comprehensive approach to supporting startups across multiple funding stages makes it a preferred partner for entrepreneurs looking for long-term investment relationships.
Gokhale brings extensive experience in technology and business development to his role as General Partner. His investment philosophy centers on identifying startups that address significant market needs with scalable technology solutions. VentureSouq’s diverse portfolio spans multiple sectors, reflecting Gokhale’s belief in the importance of diversification and his ability to spot opportunities across various industries.
The firm’s focus on fintech aligns perfectly with the MENA region’s rapidly evolving financial services landscape. With large unbanked populations and increasing smartphone adoption, the region presents tremendous opportunities for innovative financial technology solutions. VentureSouq has invested in several successful fintech startups that are transforming how people access banking, payments, and investment services.
VentureSouq’s approach to business productivity software investments reflects the increasing digitization of businesses across the MENA region. As companies modernize their operations and adopt cloud-based solutions, there’s a significant opportunity for software providers that can address local market needs while offering global-standard functionality.
3. Mahmoud Adi – Founding Partner, Shorooq Partners
Investment Focus: Fintech, Software, Web3, Tech-Enabled Platforms
Investment Stages: Idea, Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/m-adi
Mahmoud Adi has positioned Shorooq Partners as one of the most forward-thinking venture capital firms in the MENA region. His focus on emerging technologies like Web3 and blockchain demonstrates his commitment to identifying and investing in the next generation of transformative technologies.
Shorooq Partners’ investment strategy reflects Adi’s belief that the MENA region is well-positioned to leapfrog traditional technology adoption patterns and embrace cutting-edge solutions. The firm’s investments in Web3 technologies include blockchain infrastructure, decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, and digital asset management solutions.
Adi’s approach to fintech investments goes beyond traditional financial services to encompass innovative solutions that address the unique needs of emerging markets. This includes investments in alternative lending platforms, digital payment solutions designed for underbanked populations, and regulatory technology (regtech) companies that help financial institutions navigate complex compliance requirements.
Adi’s hands-on approach to working with portfolio companies has earned Shorooq Partners a reputation as a value-added investor. The firm provides startups with access to its extensive network of industry experts, potential customers, and strategic partners. This support is particularly valuable for early-stage companies that need help refining their business models and establishing market credibility.
4. Steve Khayat – Founder, Managing Director & CEO, Phoenix Venture Partners
Investment Focus: Fintech, Healthtech, AgriFoodTech, EdTech, Logistics & Mobility Tech, Sustainability Tech, Consumer Tech
Investment Stages: Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stevekhayat
Steve Khayat’s Phoenix Venture Partners represents one of the most diversified investment approaches in the Dubai venture capital ecosystem. The firm’s broad sector focus reflects Khayat’s conviction that disruptive innovation can emerge from virtually any industry, particularly when powered by advanced technology solutions.
Phoenix Venture Partners’ healthtech investments address the growing demand for digital health solutions across the MENA region. With aging populations and increasing healthcare costs, there’s significant opportunity for technologies that improve healthcare delivery efficiency, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce overall system costs. The firm has invested in telemedicine platforms, health monitoring devices, and healthcare management software.
The firm’s focus on AgriFoodTech aligns with regional food security concerns and the need for sustainable agriculture solutions. Phoenix Venture Partners has backed companies developing precision agriculture technologies, alternative protein sources, and supply chain optimization solutions for the food industry.
Khayat’s investments in EdTech reflect the region’s commitment to educational innovation and human capital development. With young populations and governments investing heavily in education infrastructure, there’s substantial demand for technology solutions that can enhance learning outcomes and improve educational accessibility.
Sustainability tech represents a growing focus area for Phoenix Venture Partners, reflecting increasing environmental awareness and government commitments to carbon neutrality goals. The firm’s investments in this sector include clean energy technologies, waste management solutions, and environmental monitoring systems.
5. Ahmed Al-Mukhalalati – Founder & Executive Director, Olive Rock Partners
Investment Focus: Healthcare, Education (EdTech), Consumer-Driven Businesses
Investment Stage: Growth-stage
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ahmed-al-mukhalalati-cfa-0079a223
Ahmed Al-Mukhalalati brings a unique perspective to Dubai’s venture capital ecosystem through his focus on growth-stage investments. As a CFA charterholder, he combines rigorous financial analysis with deep sector expertise to identify companies with strong fundamentals and significant scaling potential.
Olive Rock Partners’ healthcare investments address the rapidly growing demand for high-quality healthcare services across the GCC region. The firm focuses on companies that have demonstrated market traction and are ready to expand regionally or enhance their service offerings. This includes investments in healthcare service providers, medical technology companies, and health insurance platforms.
The firm’s education sector investments, particularly in EdTech, reflect the region’s commitment to educational excellence and innovation. Olive Rock Partners targets companies that have developed proven educational technologies and are ready to scale across multiple markets. This focus on growth-stage EdTech companies allows the firm to support the expansion of educational solutions that have already demonstrated their effectiveness.
Al-Mukhalalati’s approach to consumer-driven businesses emphasizes companies with strong brand recognition and established customer bases. The firm looks for businesses that have successfully navigated the early stages of development and are positioned for rapid growth through geographic expansion, product line extensions, or market penetration strategies.
6. Amit Zutshi – Founder and Managing Partner, Morphosis Venture Capital
Investment Focus: B2B SaaS, FinTech, HealthTech, Cybersecurity, DeepTech, Cleantech, Agritech, Robotics
Investment Stages: Idea, MVP, Early Revenue, Scaling Up
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amit-zutshi-3b669a3
Amit Zutshi’s Morphosis Venture Capital stands out for its focus on ESG-positive solutions and its commitment to supporting startups that create both financial returns and positive social impact. The firm’s investment philosophy reflects growing investor interest in sustainable and responsible investing practices.
Morphosis Venture Capital’s B2B SaaS investments target companies developing software solutions that can improve business efficiency and productivity. The firm particularly focuses on solutions that address specific industry challenges or provide innovative approaches to common business problems. This includes investments in enterprise resource planning systems, customer relationship management platforms, and industry-specific software solutions.
The firm’s cybersecurity investments address the growing need for robust security solutions as businesses across the region digitize their operations. Morphosis Venture Capital has backed companies developing advanced threat detection systems, identity management solutions, and security-as-a-service platforms.
Zutshi’s focus on DeepTech investments reflects his belief in the transformative potential of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. The firm invests in companies that are developing fundamental technology innovations with broad application potential across multiple industries.
Cleantech investments represent a core component of Morphosis Venture Capital’s ESG-focused strategy. The firm backs companies developing renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency solutions, and environmental remediation technologies. These investments align with regional sustainability goals while addressing significant market opportunities.
7. Alain Dib – Founder & CEO, Knuru Capital
Investment Focus: Fintech, Marketplaces, Healthtech, Consumer Tech, Enterprise Applications
Investment Stages: Seed, Series A, Series C
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alain-dib-01b3498
Alain Dib’s Knuru Capital has established itself as a leading investor in growth-stage technology companies across emerging markets. The firm’s focus on later-stage investments allows it to support companies that have achieved initial market validation and are ready for significant scaling.
Knuru Capital’s fintech investments target companies that have demonstrated strong product-market fit and are ready to expand into new markets or launch additional products. The firm’s portfolio includes digital banking platforms, payment processors, and lending companies that serve underbanked populations across emerging markets.
The firm’s marketplace investments focus on platforms that have achieved critical mass and are positioned for rapid growth. Knuru Capital looks for marketplaces with strong network effects, defensible competitive positions, and opportunities for geographic expansion. This includes e-commerce platforms, service marketplaces, and B2B trading platforms.
Knuru Capital’s consumer tech investments target companies with strong brand recognition and established customer bases. The firm focuses on businesses that have demonstrated their ability to acquire and retain customers efficiently and are positioned for rapid market expansion.
8. Shant Oknayan – Chairman, Iliad Partners
Investment Focus: Fintech, Logistics, Proptech
Investment Stages: Early-stage, Pre-Series A, Series A
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shant-oknayan
Shant Oknayan brings two decades of digital strategy and business development experience to his role as Chairman of Iliad Partners’ Investment Committee. His extensive background in global tech companies provides valuable insights for evaluating and supporting early-stage ventures.
Iliad Partners’ fintech investments focus on companies developing innovative solutions for the region’s evolving financial services landscape. The firm particularly targets startups that address specific market gaps or provide improved user experiences compared to traditional financial services providers.
The firm’s logistics investments capitalize on the region’s position as a global trade hub and the growing demand for efficient supply chain solutions. Iliad Partners has invested in companies developing warehouse automation technologies, delivery optimization platforms, and supply chain visibility solutions.
Iliad Partners’ early-stage focus allows the firm to work closely with founders to refine their business models and develop go-to-market strategies. The firm’s hands-on approach includes providing portfolio companies with access to industry expertise, strategic partnerships, and additional funding sources.
9. Noor Sweid – Founder, Global Ventures
Investment Focus: Fintech, Digital Health, Agritech, Enterprise SaaS, AI, Deep Tech
Investment Stages: Primarily Seed and Series A
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/noor-sweid-4b5233
Noor Sweid has established Global Ventures as one of the most respected venture capital firms in the MENA region. Her focus on emerging technologies and commitment to supporting diverse founders have made Global Ventures a preferred partner for innovative startups across multiple sectors.
Global Ventures’ fintech investments target companies developing solutions that address specific regional market needs while maintaining global scalability potential. The firm has backed digital payment platforms, alternative lending services, and financial inclusion technologies that serve underbanked populations.
Sweid’s investments in digital health reflect the growing demand for technology-enabled healthcare solutions across emerging markets. Global Ventures has invested in telemedicine platforms, health monitoring technologies, and healthcare management systems that improve access to quality healthcare services.
The firm’s agritech investments address food security challenges and agricultural productivity improvements across the region. Global Ventures backs companies developing precision agriculture technologies, crop monitoring systems, and sustainable farming solutions that can help increase agricultural yields while minimizing environmental impact.
Sweid’s commitment to AI and deep tech investments reflects her belief in the transformative potential of advanced technologies. Global Ventures has invested in companies developing machine learning platforms, computer vision technologies, and artificial intelligence applications across various industries.
10. Quoc Phong Dang – Founder, Century Oak Ventures
Investment Focus: Fintech, Marketplaces, Tech-Enabled Platforms
Investment Stages: Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/quoc-phong-d-7563a85
Quoc Phong Dang rounds out our list of top Dubai investors with Century Oak Ventures’ focus on early-stage technology companies across emerging markets. His experience in building and scaling technology businesses provides valuable insights for supporting startup founders.
Century Oak Ventures’ fintech investments target companies developing innovative financial services solutions for emerging market consumers and businesses. The firm focuses on startups that address specific market gaps or provide significantly improved user experiences compared to traditional financial services.
The firm’s marketplace investments emphasize platforms with strong network effects and defensible competitive positions. Century Oak Ventures looks for marketplaces that connect previously fragmented market participants and create value through improved efficiency and transparency.
Century Oak Ventures’ early-stage focus allows the firm to work closely with founders from the earliest stages of company development. The firm provides not just capital but also strategic guidance, operational support, and access to networks that can help startups achieve their growth objectives.
Why Choose My Tablon
MyTablon stands out as the premier destination for entrepreneurs and investors seeking meaningful connections in the startup ecosystem. Our platform goes beyond traditional networking by hosting exclusive Founder-Investor Dinners for Startups, creating intimate environments where meaningful relationships are forged. These curated events bring together Dubai’s top venture capitalists with promising entrepreneurs, facilitating organic conversations that often lead to successful funding partnerships.
Through our Meet Our Startup Investors initiative, we provide entrepreneurs with unprecedented access to vetted investors who align with their industry focus and funding stage requirements. Here’s what makes MyTablon unique:
- Exclusive Networking Events: Private founder-investor dinners in premium Dubai venues
- Vetted Investor Database: Access to verified investors with detailed investment criteria and portfolio insights
- Strategic Market Intelligence: Expert research and analysis to inform your fundraising approach
- Personalized Matching: AI-powered connections based on industry, stage, and investment preferences
- Expert Guidance: Professional support throughout your fundraising journey
- Regional Expertise: Deep understanding of MENA market dynamics and investor preferences
MyTablon’s comprehensive approach ensures that successful fundraising requires more than just a great pitch – it demands market knowledge, timing, and the right connections. Our platform delivers all three, making us the trusted partner for ambitious entrepreneurs ready to scale their ventures.
The investors highlighted in this guide will continue to play crucial roles in shaping this future and supporting the next wave of innovative companies that emerge from this dynamic region. Stay connected with MyTablon for the latest updates on Dubai’s evolving investment landscape and emerging opportunities across the MENA region.
The Future of Dubai’s Investment Ecosystem
The investors profiled in this guide represent just a portion of the thriving venture capital ecosystem that has emerged in Dubai over the past decade. Their collective efforts have helped establish the emirate as a leading startup hub and have contributed to the success of numerous innovative companies across various sectors.
Several trends are shaping the future of Dubai’s investment landscape:
- Increased Focus on Sustainability: Many investors are placing greater emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors in their investment decisions. This trend reflects growing awareness of sustainability challenges and the recognition that companies addressing these challenges may have significant long-term growth potential.
- Technology Convergence: Investors are increasingly interested in companies that combine multiple technologies to create innovative solutions. This includes combinations of artificial intelligence, blockchain, Internet of Things, and other advanced technologies that can create new business models and market opportunities.
- Regional Expansion: Many Dubai-based investors are expanding their focus to include opportunities across the broader MENA region and other emerging markets. This expansion reflects the maturation of the local startup ecosystem and the recognition of significant opportunities in neighboring markets.
- Sector Specialization: While many early-stage investors maintain broad sector focuses, there’s a growing trend toward specialization in specific industries. This specialization allows investors to develop deeper expertise and provide more valuable support to portfolio companies.
Conclusion
The government support and access to global talent create abundant funding opportunities which have established Dubai as a top venture capital hub. Featured investors in this list play a major role in molding the active startup environment of the region. The range of their investment interests demonstrates significant opportunities throughout industries including fintech and deep tech as well as healthtech.
My Tablon enables you to connect with startup investors quickly. Join our active investor community online to connect with 100+ verified investors and receive the funding necessary for your business growth. My Tablon delivers expert insights and offers real-time access to investors and opportunities throughout Dubai and the MENA region.
