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Funding News

Middle East Venture Capital Hits Record as International Investors Flock to Gulf

Bloomberg: Middle East VC hit $3.8B across 688 deals in 2025, up 74%, as global investors pour capital into UAE and Saudi ecosystems.

D
DXB Start·January 12, 2026·1 min read·2 months ago

Bloomberg reported Middle East venture capital reached record highs in 2025, with $3.8 billion across 688 deals — a 74% increase. Saudi Arabia and the UAE attracted the bulk of interest as other emerging markets experienced fundraising slumps.

The surge reflects growing confidence from international funds, drawn by sovereign co-investment programs, favourable regulation, and expanding consumer markets. The UAE's dual advantage of infrastructure and cross-border capital access made it a natural hub.

Middle East venture capital is no longer a niche asset class but an increasingly mainstream destination for global growth-stage investors seeking diversification beyond saturated markets.

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