The Reality of Fundraising in the UAE

And there is hope (Read Below):

After more than five years of dedicating my life to helping some of the best companies from around the world connect with investors and partners in the UAE, I've learned a few key lessons. ?

Here are three expectations you should adjust to significantly increase your chances of securing funding and strategic partnerships for growth in the UAE. ?

1 - Expect the process to take longer. It's not because there's a lack of available cash—government funds and private investors are plentiful. However, investors in the UAE value relationship building. They want to know you, understand your appreciation for the incredible country they've built in such a short time, and ensure they have a great experience as your investor. It's not just about ROI; they want to know they can trust you!

2 - Expect to have at least a branch or your entire headquarters move to Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Investors want to grow the local economy, especially government funds. Even the ultra-wealthy expatriates who aren't originally from the UAE often own most of their real estate in Dubai. Therefore, they prefer to keep their investments, including your company, close to home.

3 - Expect to learn about the culture and understand the differences in thinking. Simple gestures like offering to pay for dinner and showing generosity go a long way. Learning a few general Arabic greetings, such as "Salam Alaykom," can show genuine interest in being part of this rapidly prospering economy.

By adjusting these three expectations, you can significantly reduce the time it takes to raise funds in the UAE. ?

And as always, if you believe your company has what it takes to meet investors and partners in the UAE for serious growth, reach out and message me directly. ? 

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