UAE Family Offices Can Achieve Massive Returns by Spotting the Next $3B Startup Like Careem

?Mini-Guide for Investors ? :

In 2012, Careem recognized something wild: the ride-hailing revolution that was taking over the U.S. had yet to make its mark in the Middle East. They didn’t just see an opportunity—they knew it was a sure bet. And they were right. Careem adapted a proven model to the unique needs of the UAE, launched with laser-focused execution, and the rest is history.

In 2019, Uber’s acquisition of Careem for $3.1 billion became the largest startup exit in the Middle East. Imagine being one of the early investors who had the foresight to back this venture. The returns were monumental, not just financially, but in the impact Careem had on the region's tech ecosystem.

Now, you might be wondering, “How could my family office have identified an opportunity like this? How can we ensure we don’t miss out on the next Careem?!”

Here’s the secret: Look for models that have already proven successful in other markets but have yet to be fully realized in the UAE.

1. Market Provenance: Identify industries that are booming elsewhere—like ride-hailing was in the U.S.—and find out if similar needs exist in your region. Careem saw the gap and filled it. (Think Web3, Blockchain & Big Data, Fintech, VR/AR)

2. Local Adaptation: The key isn’t just in copying a model, but in adapting it. Careem thrived because they understood the Middle Eastern market's unique demands and tailored their service accordingly. (For example: The US is a Do It Yourself kind of culture while the GCC & UAE is not)

3. Strong Founders: Look for startups led by founders who are doers. The kind of leaders who see a clear path to execution and are prepared to navigate the complexities of launching in a different market. (Do they have previous exits? Is their business experience consistent? Do they have a personal brand they could leverage?)

4. Scalability Potential: Ask yourself, can this business model scale rapidly in this market? Careem’s growth was fueled by an infrastructure that allowed them to expand quickly across multiple cities. (Dubai was the perfect place for it)

5. Strategic Partnerships: Finally, consider who else is backing the venture. Early on, Careem attracted investment from prominent players like Mazen Ahmed Al-Jubeir and STC Ventures, who understood the long-term potential.

Family offices and high-net-worth individuals who master the art of spotting these opportunities can achieve incredible returns with a fraction of the risk.

The next Careem is out there, waiting to be discovered by those with the vision to see it and the courage to invest.

It’s not about betting on a trend—it’s about betting on certainty. And certainty comes from recognizing a winning model, adapting it, and executing with precision.