This episode is also available as a blog post: https://10leaves.ae/publications/difc/venture-capital-in-the-middle-east

The Middle East in general, and United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in particular, has seen a number of government-led initiatives for technological innovation in recent years. A large untapped market for Arabic-based content, a very young population and excellent technological connectivity makes the region a hotbed for enterprising entrepreneurs who are hungry for success.

VC firms from more mature markets also bring much-needed technological expertise and vast experience in funding and management, both of which are required to grow the ecosystem here.

Co-investment with locally-based venture capital fund managers also makes sense, given their regional expertise. Deals abound in the innovation centres that have been created, and prices are lower than what would be typically available in say Europe, the States or India. Having a local presence and tying up with VC Fund managers here would help create a deal pipeline that can be interesting.

So how does one go about it?

VC Fund Managers who are interested to enter the region, can consider the DIFC as a viable option.