The startup scene in the UAE is still happening and those willing to take the plunge will find a relatively welcoming environment. Investors are willing to give their ambitions a chance to fly.
In 2022, proptech portals are having their big moment, while BNPL (buy now pay later) continue to attract a lot of support as they add new regional markets to their coverage. In Saudi Arabia, logistics-focused TruKKer has raised multiple funding rounds, playing nicely with their valuations — and possibly bringing them closer to listing?
New startups are popping up all the time. Dubai-based Alfii recently launched a SaaS platform for end-to-end HR workflow automation, targeting startups and SMEs. The company was founded by Yousef Albarqawi, Becky Jefferies and Dina Mohammad-Laity.
“We were 12 people from 11 countries,” Becky said. “We are a fully remote team and while many are based in the UAE, we have colleagues in the UK, Romania, Kyrgyzstan and Tunisia.
“The founders come from a background in tech and start-ups including Uber, Deliveroo, Talabat, Property Finder and more, while our CEO (Albarqawi) is a serial entrepreneur and has exited.
“We’ve secured a range of clients across the MENA region, as well as the UK, South Africa and the US, including some of the most prominent startups in Egypt, the UAE and Jordan.”