DIEZ Doubles Oraseya Capital Fund to AED 1 Billion to Support Startups

DIEZ

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has announced the doubling of its venture capital fund, managed by its investment arm Oraseya Capital, from AED 500 million to AED 1 billion. The move is part of a broader strategy to support promising businesses and expand investment opportunities in global markets.

The decision also reflects DIEZ’s commitment to developing Dubai’s entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem while supporting the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. It further strengthens the emirate’s position as a global hub for venture capital and investment in future industries.

Investment Limit Raised to $6 Million

As part of the expansion, Oraseya Capital has increased its maximum investment per company from $3 million to $6 million, equivalent to approximately AED 22 million. This gives the fund greater flexibility to participate in larger funding rounds and support businesses at more advanced stages of growth.

The expanded investment strategy will also cover international companies with strategic importance to the UAE. In addition, the fund will support businesses that have moved beyond Series B funding rounds while continuing to invest in early-stage startups.

The initiative is also aimed at helping develop the next generation of unicorn companies, further strengthening Dubai’s role as a launchpad for businesses seeking regional and international growth.

Ahmed bin Saeed: Investing in Innovation Strengthens Dubai’s Economic Future

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), said: “Doubling the size of the Oraseya Capital fund reflects our ambition to invest in Dubai’s potential as a global hub for the next generation of technology entrepreneurs, in line with the directives and vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, to build a diversified economy based on knowledge and innovation. By expanding the fund’s capabilities, we are supporting an integrated ecosystem that provides promising companies with the capital, expertise, and opportunities they need to grow and expand from Dubai into regional and global markets.”

A New Phase of Growth and Investment Partnerships

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, CEO of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), said: “Doubling the size of the fund reflects the strength of Oraseya Capital’s model and the results it has achieved since its launch. It gives us greater capacity to meet the ambitions and needs of promising companies at different stages of growth and to build more impactful investment partnerships.”

The expansion will allow Oraseya Capital to strengthen its investment partnerships by combining funding with expertise and mentorship, helping businesses grow and reach regional and international markets.

Oraseya Capital Strengthens Its Position in Venture Capital

Oraseya Capital has continued to establish itself as one of the UAE’s most active venture capital investors, ranking first in the country in both 2024 and 2025, according to venture capital data platform MAGNiTT.

The company maintained its leading position during the first half of 2026, including in early-stage investments. It also ranked second across the Middle East and North Africa in both categories.

Focus on Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and Healthcare

The fund focuses on companies with strong growth potential, capable teams, and significant opportunities for market expansion.

Its priority investment sectors include artificial intelligence, financial technology, digital assets, healthcare, and sustainability. These areas align with Dubai’s efforts to develop a knowledge-based economy driven by advanced technologies.

66 Active Companies in the Investment Portfolio

Since its launch in November 2023, Oraseya Capital has built a portfolio of 66 active companies, with an average of 25 investments each year.

The company has also completed eight cohorts of its SANDBOX program, which provides selected startups with $150,000 in investment. It also operates LAUNCHPAD, a six-month program designed to support entrepreneurs.

Portfolio Companies’ Revenue Rises to $387 Million

Companies in Oraseya Capital’s investment portfolio have recorded significant growth in annual recurring revenue, rising from approximately $180 million at the time of investment to $387 million currently.

Revenue generated by portfolio companies in the UAE has reached $140 million, while the companies have collectively raised $1.1 billion in funding, reflecting their business performance and ability to attract investment.