Hub71 startup funding has reached a major milestone as Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its position as a global technology hub.
Startups within the Abu Dhabi-based innovation ecosystem Hub71 have raised more than Dh9.9 billion, or about $2.7 billion, in total funding by the end of 2025. They have also generated Dh5.4 billion in revenue, equal to around $1.5 billion, showing strong commercial growth across the platform.
According to the Hub71 2025 Impact Report, startups in the ecosystem secured Dh2.2 billion in funding and generated Dh645 million in revenue during 2025 alone. The figures highlight continued expansion and investor confidence in Abu Dhabi’s growing startup environment.
Since its launch in 2019, Hub71 has built a network of around 390 startups. Out of these, 295 companies have received direct support through programs that connect founders with investors, corporates, regulators, and talent partners.
The ecosystem has also seen a sharp rise in global interest. Applications from startup founders increased by 62 percent year on year in 2025. More than 5,000 applications were received, and 52 new startups joined the platform during the year.
This growth reflects Abu Dhabi’s increasing appeal as a base for technology companies aiming to expand across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Many startups are attracted by access to funding, business support, and regional market opportunities.
Mohamed Al Khoori, Head of Marketing and Communications at Hub71, said the strength of Abu Dhabi’s wider innovation system is a key factor behind its success. He explained that startups benefit from a connected ecosystem that includes investors, regulators, corporates, and talent partners working together to support growth.
He added that Hub71 is expanding its focus beyond early-stage startups. The ecosystem is now working with partners such as Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Abu Dhabi Global Market to support more mature companies as well.
Hub71 also introduced its Initiate program to support earlier-stage startups. One example highlighted was its partnership with Khalifa Fund through the Mizan program, which supported 17 Emirati founders this year.
Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Ali Alwan said the ecosystem made strong progress in 2025, growing to more than 390 startups and over 200 partners. He said this growth reflects rising demand from founders and the strength of partnerships that support innovation and expansion.
He added that Hub71 plays a key role in helping startups build globally competitive technology companies. The ecosystem connects entrepreneurs with the resources needed to scale their ideas into international businesses.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of Hub71 and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, said the performance shows Abu Dhabi’s steady progress toward a more innovation-driven economy.
He noted that startups are important for attracting investment, creating jobs, and supporting long-term economic growth. He also emphasized Abu Dhabi’s position as a destination where technology companies can build and compete globally.
During 2025, Hub71 also expanded its international presence. It strengthened partnerships with venture capital firms, corporations, and government organizations in Hong Kong, Japan, Portugal, India, Ireland, and the United States.
The ecosystem also launched Hub71+ Life Sciences, adding to its specialized platforms that already focus on artificial intelligence, climate technology, and digital assets.
These developments show a clear strategy to diversify Abu Dhabi’s innovation sectors and attract a wider range of global startups.
Overall, the strong funding performance and international expansion highlight Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a competitive global hub for technology-driven businesses.
