Abu Dhabi tech ecosystem accepts diverse global ventures with USD 296 million in collective funding.
Hub71 selects 40 international startups for Cohort 19 from a record-breaking 2,502 applications across 117 countries.
Hub71 has announced its largest startup intake to date. The Abu Dhabi global tech ecosystem recently selected 40 companies for Cohort 19. As a result, the group emerged from a record 2,502 applications from 117 countries. The rigorous selection process yielded a highly competitive 1.6% acceptance rate.
These chosen ventures have collectively raised USD 296 million (AED 1.09 billion). The capital also marks a 29% increase from the previous cohort. This growth reflects sustained global demand for Abu Dhabi’s expanding commercial infrastructure. As a result, founders from 14 distinct nations are now entering the UAE market.
International markets impressively account for 88% of the new cohort. Moreover, artificial intelligence remains a dominant focus across the selected enterprises. Almost 90% of these startups integrate AI at their operational core. They span developmental stages from Pre-Seed to Series A funding rounds.
All 40 companies will join the comprehensive Hub71 Access Programme. Within this framework, 12 startups enter the sector-agnostic development track. Meanwhile, 19 ventures will join specialist ecosystems focused on critical industries. These include Hub71+ Digital Assets, ClimateTech, and Life Sciences tracks.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, noted that incoming businesses are becoming increasingly mature. He explained that these founders build across increasingly specialised sectors. As a result, they bring crucial expertise and new technologies to the community. These startups also gain access to vital capital and market opportunities.
The Hub71+ Life Sciences division witnessed the strongest application growth this cycle. Applications nearly doubled from the previous intake period. Notable selections include US-headquartered Avesta 76 Therapeutics and SernaBio. Together, they bring innovative cancer treatments and generative AI-driven therapies.
ClimateTech additions include UK-based Roslin Technologies, which develops cultivated meat innovations. Additionally, Switzerland-headquartered Amantrue joins the Digital Assets verification network. Six other companies join the Anjal Z programme, which focuses on early childhood. This specific initiative operates alongside the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority.
Dr Yousef Al Hammadi of the ECA emphasised innovation’s practical impact. He stated that progress must ultimately improve daily family life. Therefore, the partnership helps six startups adapt solutions for local children. These include platforms like ConnectHear and the educational assessment tool TAIA.
Additionally, three ventures mark the inaugural entry into the SAVI cluster. This pathway focuses on the smart and autonomous vehicles industry. As a result, Autolane, Robox, and Sinaha Technology will test their automated delivery platforms. Over 100 applications specifically targeted this new autonomous vehicle pathway.
Proactive sourcing and network referrals brought in 85% of the new startups. Furthermore, Cohort 19 includes six Series A companies seeking expansion. Participants receive tailored mentorship and up to AED 500,000 in incentives. As a result, Hub71’s active startup ecosystem now reaches 644 companies.
(Source: Edelman)
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