Entrepreneur News Startup

UAE boosts startup hub status with $86.7m in May funding

Startups across the MENA region raised $289m in May, marking a 25% increase from April. The UAE contributed $86.7m of that total, distributed across 14 deals, underscoring its appeal to investors and entrepreneurs alike.

These developments highlight the UAE’s strategic efforts to foster entrepreneurship through government-led initiatives, regulatory reforms, and targeted investments in emerging sectors such as fintech, healthtech, and proptech. Programs like the Dubai Future District Fund (DFDF), which reported over $1.65bn in capital commitments last year, continue to play a vital role in supporting early- and growth-stage companies.

With world-class infrastructure, access to global markets, and a favorable business environment, the UAE is positioning itself as a leading hub for innovation, attracting both regional and international founders.

Gulf Economist Staff Writer