Dubai Angel Investors (DAI) is a member-led micro-venture capital investment company based in the UAE, comprising over 100 experienced angel investors including entrepreneurs, venture fund partners, and senior executives. They focus on early-stage technology startups, specifically investing in Seed and Series A rounds with typical investments ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 250,000, with co-investments potentially increasing this amount up to AED 2,000,000. DAI is notable for leveraging its extensive network and expertise to add value beyond capital, often investing alongside established venture funds or acting as lead investor themselves, making it a key player in the UAE's early-stage funding ecosystem.
Typical Funding Amount: Approximately AED 183,500 to AED 3.67 million (USD 50,000 to USD 1 million)
Funding Amount Range: Dubai Angel Investors typically deploys between $50,000 to $250,000 (approximately AED 183,750 to AED 918,750) per investment, with total first-round investments ranging from $100,000 to $3,000,000 (approximately AED 367,500 to AED 11,025,000).
Time to Funding: Dubai Angel Investors informs companies of the Investment Committee's decision within 24 hours after the pitch night. Pitch nights are typically held monthly, on the second Tuesday, so the timeline from application to funding decision depends on when the company is invited to pitch, but the decision post-pitch is very prompt (within 24 hours).
The application process for Dubai Angel Investors involves several detailed steps to present a comprehensive pitch to the network. Founders should prepare the following key components:
Founders must review these elements and complete the application form on Dubai Angel Investors' website to apply. This structured approach ensures a thorough evaluation and increases the chances of securing funding from this prominent UAE angel investment network.
Dubai Angel Investors focus on early-stage (seed and Series A) technology startups with a minimum viable product, evidence of customer traction, and some revenue. They are sector agnostic but require proprietary technology and a capital-efficient vision to scale. The startups should ideally originate from Dubai or the Middle East, though 20% of capital is allocated for companies outside the region if they demonstrate synergy or opportunity within the Middle East. The quality of the founding team is critical; they look for dynamic, focused, and passionate founders with a strong team dynamic. Founders must present a defensible valuation for their business, as DAI invests in straight equity or convertible notes and expects clear valuation rationale.
For early-stage startups seeking funding from angel investors like Dubai Angel Investors in the UAE, here are actionable, stage-specific tips to maximize funding success:
These tips align with the practices of Dubai Angel Investors and other active angel networks in the UAE, helping early-stage founders maximize their chances of securing funding and support. (Funding Souq, Stripe, International Investor Summit)
| Feature | Dubai Angel Investors (DAI) | Other Top Angel Investors/VCs in UAE (Waveup & AngelMatch) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Stage | Seed and Series A early-stage tech startups | Mostly seed to Series A, some pre-seed; focus varies by firm |
| Investment Amount | $100,000 to $250,000 per company; co-investments up to $2M | Ranges from $100K to $10M+ depending on investor and stage |
| Investment Type | Equity or convertible notes | Equity, convertible notes, venture debt (some VCs) |
| Sector Focus | Sector agnostic, tech-driven, capital-efficient scaling | Varied: AI, fintech, healthtech, SaaS, e-commerce, climatetech, fintech, etc. |
| Geographic Focus | Primarily Dubai and MENA; 20% capital for outside region | Mostly UAE and MENA focused; some global investors |
| Network Size | 100+ members including seasoned investors, entrepreneurs | Varies; includes individual angels, VC firms, family offices |
| Application Process | Sponsor submission, Investment Committee screening, pitch night, due diligence, mentoring | Varies; often includes pitch, due diligence, and network introductions |
| Decision Time | Decision within 24 hours after pitch night | Varies; typically weeks to months |
| Additional Support | Mentoring, network access, follow-on funding available | Varies; some provide hands-on support and operational backing |
| Advantages | Strong regional network, experienced members, flexible investment approach, follow-on capital | Large variety of investors with diverse sector and stage focus, some with venture debt options |
| Limitations | Focus on tech startups with MVP and traction; valuation required | Some investors may have higher minimums or prefer specific sectors or stages |
| Notable Investments | 30+ companies with AED 50M invested since 2016 | Various startups across fintech, AI, healthtech, SaaS, etc. |
| Stage-specific Tips | Prepare defensible valuation, demonstrate traction, leverage sponsor for pitch access | Tailor pitch to investor focus, prepare for longer diligence, explore co-investment opportunities |
| Useful Links | DAI Website, DAI Investment Process | Waveup Top Investors, AngelMatch UAE Investors |
Dubai Angel Investors (DAI) is a premier UAE-based angel investment network specializing in early-stage (Seed and Series A) technology startups with high growth potential. They have over 100 members and have invested more than AED 50 million across 30 companies, making them a key player in the UAE's early-stage funding ecosystem. DAI typically invests between AED 367,000 to AED 917,000 (USD 100,000 to 250,000) per company initially, with co-investments by members often raising total first-round investments up to AED 7.34 million (USD 2 million). They also reserve capital for follow-on investments in portfolio companies showing strong traction.
For founders seeking funding from Dubai Angel Investors, here are tailored actionable tips and guidance:
In summary, Dubai Angel Investors offers a robust funding avenue for early-stage UAE tech startups with a strong team and validated product. Founders should focus on demonstrating traction, team strength, and a clear growth vision, while preparing for a competitive pitch process. Engaging with DAI can also provide mentorship and valuable regional connections beyond capital.
For more details and to apply, visit their official website: https://www.dubaiangelinvestors.me
This guidance helps UAE startup founders identify if Dubai Angel Investors is the right fit and how to approach them effectively to maximize funding success.
Womena is a Dubai-based, female-focused angel investor network that empowers women to invest in early-stage startups in the UAE. It facilitates the investment process by providing access to pre-screened entrepreneurs, quality deal flow, due diligence support, and a protected investment vehicle, while also offering education and post-investment mentorship. Womena targets proactive women who want to contribute to economic growth and innovation, making it a key player in the UAE's early-stage funding landscape and diversity efforts. This network enhances investment success through collective investing, shared knowledge, and community impact.
Typical Funding Amount: Womena, as a Dubai-based female-focused angel investor network, typically provides early-stage funding with investment amounts generally ranging from approximately $25,000 to $500,000 USD (about AED 92,000 to AED 1.8 million). This range aligns with common angel investment sizes in the UAE, especially for fintech and healthtech startups at the seed stage, reflecting Womena's focus on early-stage companies and diversity in funding.
Funding Amount Range: Womena, a Dubai-based female-focused angel investor network, typically provides funding in the range of $10,000 to $500,000 (approximately AED 36,700 to AED 1,835,000) for early-stage fintech and healthtech startups. This range aligns with common angel investment amounts in the UAE, which generally vary between $10,000 and $500,000 depending on the startup's industry and stage.
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for angel investors including female-focused networks like Womena in the UAE typically ranges from 3 to 8 months. If all factors align well, it can take at least 3 months, but 6 to 8 months is more typical, assuming the startup is prepared for investment. Initial responses acknowledging application submissions are usually within a few days, but the full evaluation and decision process takes longer due to due diligence and investor meetings.
The application process to become an angel investor with Womena involves the following steps:
For more details and to apply, prospective members can visit the Womena application form page: https://womena.co/application-form/
Womena focuses on early-stage startups primarily in fintech and healthtech sectors based in the UAE or MENA region. Startups must be pre-screened and demonstrate potential for growth and innovation. Womena supports female entrepreneurs and investors, emphasizing community impact and mentorship. Investors are proactive women who participate in multiple investments annually and attend regular meetings. Startups should be ready for due diligence and benefit from Womena's network and guidance. International investors are welcome, but startups generally should be regionally based. The network values startups that align with its diversity and early-stage funding mission.
For early-stage startups seeking funding from Womena, a leading female-focused angel investor network in the UAE, founders should focus on the following actionable tips to maximize success:
By focusing on these areas, early-stage startups can better position themselves to secure funding from Womena and benefit from their supportive, knowledgeable, and diverse angel investor community in the UAE.
| Feature | Description | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network Focus | Female-focused angel investor network based in Dubai, UAE | Supports women entrepreneurs, promotes diversity, and economic growth in the UAE startup ecosystem | Limited to women investors, may not suit all startup founders |
| Investment Stage | Primarily early-stage startups, especially fintech and healthtech sectors | Tailored support for early-stage companies, access to relevant investors | Focused on specific sectors, may not cover other industries |
| Investment Amount | Over $462,000 invested in UAE startups, with typical angel investment sizes | Provides meaningful capital for seed and early growth stages | Investment amounts may vary; not a large fund like VCs |
| Application Process | Members apply to join the network; entrepreneurs present at monthly pitch meetings | Structured process with pre-screened entrepreneurs, due diligence, and coaching | Application limited to women investors; startups must fit network criteria |
| Eligibility Criteria | Women investors who are proactive, understand risks, and contribute to community and startups | Strong community support, shared knowledge, mentorship, and networking opportunities | Requires commitment to attend meetings and active participation |
| Support & Education | Offers workshops, due diligence reports, post-investment support, and mentoring | Enhances investor knowledge and startup success rates | Limited to members; non-members have restricted access |
| Investment Vehicle | Collective investment through WOMENA's legal structure | Reduces individual risk, better negotiating power, diversified portfolio | Investment is collective, individual control may be limited |
| Notable Investments | Investments in startups like Souqalmal (comparison site) and Bayzat (online insurance platform) | Proven track record in UAE early-stage startup ecosystem | Limited public data on full portfolio |
| Stage-specific Tips | Emphasizes proactive engagement, understanding risk, and community contribution for early-stage | Helps founders tailor approach to angel investors and maximize funding success | Focused on women investors; advice may be less applicable to other investor types |
| Additional Resources | Access to online deal room, recorded events, and expert speakers | Convenient participation for local and international investors | Online resources require membership |
This table provides a comprehensive overview of Womena's angel investor network, highlighting its unique focus on empowering women investors and supporting early-stage fintech and healthtech startups in the UAE. It outlines the network's key features, advantages for startups, and some limitations to consider for founders seeking funding options.
Womena is a premier Dubai-based female-focused angel investor network that plays a vital role in the UAE's early-stage startup funding landscape, especially for fintech and healthtech sectors. For early-stage founders, Womena offers access to a curated pipeline of pre-screened entrepreneurs, comprehensive due diligence reports, and a collective investment vehicle that enhances negotiating power and reduces individual risk through diversification. Founders seeking funding should prepare to engage with a proactive, knowledgeable female investor community that values mentorship, post-investment support, and active involvement, including potential board participation.
To maximize success when approaching Womena, early-stage startups should focus on demonstrating strong market potential, innovation in fintech or healthtech, and readiness for mentorship and strategic guidance. Founders should be prepared with clear business plans, financial projections, and evidence of traction or pilot results. Womena’s process includes pitch meetings, due diligence, and facilitated investment closing, with opportunities for founders to benefit from workshops and networking events.
Womena also welcomes international investors, providing an inclusive and accessible platform through an online deal room, making it easier for startups to attract diverse funding sources. For UAE startups, aligning with Womena not only provides capital but also connects founders with a vibrant community that supports economic growth, innovation, and gender diversity in entrepreneurship.
In summary, Womena is ideal for early-stage fintech and healthtech startups led by or aligned with female empowerment goals. Founders should leverage Womena’s structured investment process, educational resources, and community network to enhance their funding prospects and long-term growth potential in the UAE’s dynamic startup ecosystem.
Abu Dhabi Business Angel Network (AD BAN) is a prominent angel investor collective based in Abu Dhabi, comprising around 40 members who have collectively invested approximately AED 30 million in early-stage startups. It serves as a vital funding resource for early-stage companies in Abu Dhabi and the broader UAE, providing crucial capital and mentorship to help startups scale. AD BAN plays a central role in the UAE's startup ecosystem by connecting innovative entrepreneurs with experienced investors, thereby accelerating the growth and development of promising new ventures in the region.
Typical Funding Amount: Approximately AED 100,000 to AED 400,000 per investment, aligning with typical early-stage angel investment sizes in the UAE ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 per investor.
Funding Amount Range: AED 183,500 to AED 3.67 million (approximately USD 50,000 to USD 1 million)
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for Abu Dhabi Business Angel Network (AD BAN) is typically around 3 to 6 months. This estimate is based on common angel investor funding timelines and similar processes observed in UAE angel networks like Dubai Angel Investors, where pitch nights occur monthly and decisions are communicated within 24 hours after pitching. The overall duration depends on the timing of application submission relative to pitch events, due diligence, and closing procedures.
The application and investment process for the Abu Dhabi Business Angel Network (AD BAN), as part of the broader Hub71 Angel Investor Support Package, involves several key steps:
This process is designed to simplify and enhance investment opportunities, encouraging larger early-stage investments and strengthening the angel investor community in Abu Dhabi’s startup ecosystem. The initiative aims to bridge funding gaps and accelerate startup growth within the region.
Source: Hub71 Angel Investor Support Package announcement and related details (Gulf Business)
Abu Dhabi Business Angel Network (AD BAN) primarily targets early-stage startups based in Abu Dhabi and the broader UAE. Eligible startups typically operate in sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence (AI), and consumer technology, reflecting the network's investment focus. To qualify, startups should have a scalable business model with a clear value proposition and market opportunity. Founders are expected to present a compelling pitch including a business plan, financial projections, and evidence of market traction. AD BAN investments are suited for startups seeking seed or early-stage funding, usually before venture capital rounds. While specific revenue thresholds are not publicly detailed, startups should be prepared to demonstrate growth potential and alignment with Abu Dhabi's innovation ecosystem. Networking through local startup events, platforms like Hub71, and direct engagement with AD BAN members is recommended for application and funding consideration. This eligibility framework aligns with typical angel investor expectations in the UAE's startup ecosystem.
For early-stage startups seeking funding from the Abu Dhabi Business Angel Network (AD BAN) and similar angel investor groups in the UAE, success hinges on a strategic and well-prepared approach tailored to this funding resource type:
Following these tips increases the likelihood of securing early-stage funding from AD BAN and similar angel investors, positioning your startup for growth and success in the UAE’s dynamic ecosystem.
| Feature | Abu Dhabi Business Angel Network (AD BAN) | General Angel Investing in UAE (Context) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Abu Dhabi, UAE | UAE-wide (including Dubai, Abu Dhabi) |
| Network Size | Around 40 members | Various networks including Dubai Angel Investors, Emirates Angels, Womena |
| Total Investment | AED 30 million invested in early-stage companies | Angel investments typically range from $50,000 to $500,000 per startup |
| Funding Stage | Early-stage startups | Early-stage to seed and growth stages |
| Application Process | Not publicly detailed; facilitated through network connections and Hub71 support | Varies by network; often requires pitch, due diligence, and eligibility checks |
| Eligibility Criteria | Not explicitly detailed; likely high-net-worth individuals with interest in early-stage startups | Accredited investors with net worth or income thresholds; experience preferred |
| Notable Investments | Not specifically listed for AD BAN | Notable startups in fintech, AI, health tech, e-commerce sectors in UAE |
| Support & Benefits | Hub71 Angel Investor Support Package offers AED 150,000 incentives, office space, reduced licensing fees, legal and audit support, digital infrastructure for investment management | Government initiatives support angel investing with tax benefits, startup-friendly regulations, visa facilitation |
| Industry Focus | Broad, with emphasis on innovative tech startups in Abu Dhabi ecosystem | Fintech, AI, health tech, e-commerce, real estate tech, sustainability |
| Advantages | Strong local network in Abu Dhabi, backed by government and Hub71 support, financial incentives, streamlined investment process | Diverse and growing angel investor community, government support, multiple active networks and events |
| Limitations | Limited public info on application and eligibility specifics, relatively smaller network size compared to Dubai | Finding the right investor can be time-consuming; equity dilution; less structural support than VC funding |
| Stage-Specific Tips | Leverage Hub71 support package benefits; focus on building relationships within AD BAN; prepare strong pitch and documentation for early-stage funding | Understand market potential, scalability, team quality; attend startup events; leverage networks for connections |
| Additional Resources | Hub71 website, Abu Dhabi government startup resources, UAE startup ecosystem events | UAE government portals, startup events like International Investors Summit, GITEX Future Stars |
This table summarizes the key features, advantages, and limitations of Abu Dhabi Business Angel Network (AD BAN) as a prominent early-stage angel investor network in Abu Dhabi, within the broader context of angel investing in the UAE startup ecosystem. It provides actionable insights for startup founders seeking early-stage funding in Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
The Abu Dhabi Business Angel Network (AD BAN) is a prominent angel investor collective based in Abu Dhabi, UAE, with approximately 40 members and around AED 30 million invested in early-stage companies. It plays a central role in the Abu Dhabi and broader UAE startup funding ecosystem, particularly for early-stage ventures seeking angel investment. For founders at the seed or early stage, AD BAN offers access to a network of experienced investors who provide not only capital but also mentorship and strategic guidance tailored to the UAE market.
To maximize success when approaching AD BAN, founders should prepare a clear, compelling pitch that highlights the scalability and innovation of their business, supported by robust documentation such as a detailed business plan, financial projections, and a clear use of funds. Understanding the eligibility criteria, which typically includes being an early-stage startup with a scalable business model, is crucial. The application process often involves submitting an initial pitch or executive summary, followed by meetings or pitch sessions with network members.
AD BAN's investment amounts usually align with typical angel investment ranges, often between AED 100,000 to several million AED, depending on the startup's stage and sector. Founders should note that sectors like technology, fintech, and health tech are particularly favored in the UAE ecosystem.
For busy founders, it is advisable to compare AD BAN with other angel networks and funding options in the UAE by considering factors such as investment size, sector focus, network support, and ease of application. Leveraging government-backed initiatives like the Hub71 Angel Investor Support Package can also enhance chances by reducing setup costs and providing additional resources.
In summary, AD BAN is a strategic funding path for early-stage startups in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, offering not just capital but valuable ecosystem connections and support. Founders should focus on thorough preparation, understanding investor expectations, and aligning their startup's growth stage with AD BAN's investment profile to optimize funding success.
Additional UAE startup resources for deeper research include Hub71, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and Emirates Angels Investors Association, which complement AD BAN's offerings and provide broader funding and mentorship opportunities.
VentureSouq Syndicate is a prominent UAE-based angel investment syndicate operating within the MENA region, specializing in early-stage technology startups. It has facilitated over 20 early-stage deals and is recognized by regional data platforms such as MAGNiTT for its leadership in angel investing. VentureSouq manages thematic venture capital funds with a focus on sectors like FinTech and ClimateTech, providing both capital and strategic support to help startups scale. This makes it a key funding resource for early-stage companies seeking growth and market expansion in the UAE.
Typical Funding Amount: Typically, VentureSouq Syndicate provides early-stage funding amounts ranging from approximately $100,000 to $1,000,000 USD (around 367,000 to 3,670,000 AED) per startup. This range aligns with their focus on seed and early-stage investments through thematic funds such as FinTech and ClimateTech, supported by a fund size of about $50 million USD.
Funding Amount Range: VentureSouq Syndicate generally offers funding amounts ranging from $100,000 to $4 million USD for early-stage startups in the UAE. Smaller angel investments can start from around $0 to $100,000 USD, with typical startup valuations at the time of investment ranging between $50 million to $100 million USD for larger rounds. This range reflects their active involvement in seed and angel stage deals, focusing on early-stage technology businesses primarily in FinTech and ClimateTech sectors.
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for VentureSouq Syndicate typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. This includes initial application review, due diligence (2-4 weeks), term sheet negotiation (1-2 weeks), and final contract signing and fund transfer (1-2 weeks). This timeline aligns with common angel syndicate funding processes in the UAE and regionally, reflecting a thorough but efficient investment process for early-stage startups.
Additional Tips:
This process ensures that VentureSouq syndicate investments are strategic, well-vetted, and aligned with long-term growth potential for startups in the UAE and globally. (Startup Istanbul, VentureSouq)
Startups must be technology and innovation-driven, focusing on sectors such as fintech, healthtech, and e-commerce. The funding is targeted at early-stage companies in the seed, Series A, and Series B stages. Typical check sizes range from $500K to $2M. VentureSouq prefers startups with disruptive potential and high growth prospects, led by visionary founders. The startups should be able to benefit from strategic guidance and scaling support. The fund is based in Dubai, UAE, and primarily invests in companies within the MENA region but with a global outlook. Founders with strong backgrounds and startups with validated market trends and competitive positioning are favored.
For early-stage startups seeking funding from angel investors like VentureSouq Syndicate in the UAE, founders should focus on the following actionable tips to maximize success:
By following these tips, early-stage startups can effectively position themselves to attract angel investment from prominent UAE-based syndicates like VentureSouq Syndicate, increasing their chances of securing funding and strategic support for growth.
| Feature | VentureSouq Syndicate | Other UAE Angel Investor Networks (e.g., Dubai Angel Investors, Womena, Emirates Angels) |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | UAE-based angel syndicate and VC fund manager focusing on early-stage tech startups, especially FinTech and ClimateTech. Thesis-driven with thematic funds. | Various networks focusing on early-stage startups across tech sectors, including women-focused and regional groups. |
| Funding Amounts | Typically invests in early-stage rounds; funding range reported from $100,000 to $4 million in some sources. | Average angel investment ranges $50,000 to $500,000 depending on startup stage and sector. |
| Application Process | Syndicate model with lead investors negotiating terms and conducting due diligence on behalf of members. | Networks provide platforms for startups to pitch; often involve networking events and direct investor meetings. |
| Eligibility Criteria | Focus on early-stage startups with scalable business models in FinTech, ClimateTech, and other disruptive tech sectors. | Startups with strong teams, scalable models, and market potential; sector preferences vary by network. |
| Notable Investments | Over 20 early-stage deals including startups in FinTech, HealthTech, EdTech, and ClimateTech globally. | Diverse portfolios including fintech, e-commerce, AI, health tech, and sustainability sectors. |
| Stage-Specific Tips | Engage with syndicate lead investors; prepare detailed pitch and financials; focus on sectors aligned with their thematic funds. | Build a strong pitch deck highlighting scalability and financial projections; leverage networking events like International Investors Summit. |
| Advantages | Access to a curated deal flow, professional syndicate management, and strategic guidance; strong regional and global network. | Broad investor networks with diverse expertise; government-backed incentives and startup-friendly regulations. |
| Limitations | May require alignment with syndicate themes; competitive selection; less direct individual investor interaction. | Varies by network; some may have limited funding amounts or sector focus; networking required to access deals. |
| Additional Resources & Links | VentureSouq Website, MAGNiTT recognition, Angel Rising event collaboration. | Dubai Angel Investors, Womena, Emirates Angels, IVY Growth Associates websites; UAE government startup resources. |
This comparison helps UAE early-stage startup founders identify VentureSouq Syndicate as a leading angel syndicate with thematic focus and professional syndicate management, while other angel networks offer broader access and diverse investor profiles. Founders should choose based on sector fit, funding needs, and preferred investor engagement style.
VentureSouq Syndicate is a leading UAE-based angel syndicate and venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments for technology-driven startups, particularly in fintech, healthtech, and e-commerce sectors. For early-stage founders in the UAE, VentureSouq offers a strategic funding range typically between $500K and $2M, suitable for seed through Series B rounds. Their approach is hands-on, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to a broad network that can help startups scale regionally and globally.
Founders should prepare a strong pitch that highlights disruptive potential and market validation, as VentureSouq uses data-driven analysis to identify high-growth opportunities. Emphasizing innovation in fintech or climate tech can align well with their current thematic focus. Early-stage startups should ensure they have clear business models, traction metrics, and a scalable plan to attract VentureSouq’s interest.
Application processes typically involve detailed due diligence and founder engagement, so founders should be ready with comprehensive documentation including financials, market analysis, and growth strategy. Leveraging VentureSouq’s network can also open doors to follow-on funding and partnerships.
In the UAE context, founders can benefit from VentureSouq’s deep regional expertise and connections, which are critical for navigating local market dynamics and regulatory environments. Engaging with VentureSouq can also provide credibility and visibility in the MENA startup ecosystem.
Overall, VentureSouq Syndicate is a top-tier option for UAE early-stage startups seeking substantial angel investment combined with strategic support. Founders should tailor their approach to demonstrate alignment with VentureSouq’s investment themes and readiness for scaling, ensuring they meet eligibility criteria and are prepared for a rigorous but rewarding funding journey.
Sheraa Angels is an initiative by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) that facilitates angel investments into early-stage startups based in the UAE, with a particular focus on Sharjah. It supports a diverse range of founders by connecting them with a network of passionate angel investors and providing access to capital and resources critical for scaling. Sheraa Angels plays a vital role in the UAE startup ecosystem by bridging gaps in early-stage funding and fostering sustainable growth through mentorship and investment opportunities tailored to the needs of emerging companies.
Typical Funding Amount: Sheraa Angels typically provide early-stage funding primarily through grants (prize money) averaging around $25,000 to $40,000 per round. Angel investment amounts in the UAE more broadly range from approximately AED 183,500 to AED 3.67 million (about $50,000 to $1 million), but Sheraa Angels' own funding is mostly in the lower grant range for early-stage startups.
Funding Amount Range: Typically, Sheraa Angels (Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center) facilitates angel investments in early-stage UAE startups ranging from approximately AED 183,500 (about $50,000) to AED 3.67 million (about $1 million). An example investment from Sheraa includes a $100,000 convertible note, indicating their participation in this range. Additionally, Sheraa offers a non-equity four-month program with perks valued at over AED 3 million, supporting startups beyond direct funding.
Time to Funding: At least 3 months; 6–8 months more typical from application to funding decision. ([Pitching Angels](https://pitchingangels.com/2025/03/14/how-long-does-it-take-to-raise-a-funding-round))
Additional Notes:
This structured process facilitates early-stage startups in Sharjah and UAE to access capital, mentorship, and ecosystem support through Sheraa Angels and the broader Sheraa programs. (startups.sheraa.ae, sheraa.ae/apply-here)
Startups must be UAE-based, particularly in Sharjah, with a tech-enabled scalable idea. Founders should be eager to test assumptions and committed to leveraging the program offerings. Eligibility varies by program stage: Idea Lab requires a scalable tech idea; Pre-Seed requires a validated MVP stage idea scalable regionally/globally; Seed stage requires 3-6 months traction; Series A requires operational 2+ years. Programs support diverse founders with mentorship, workspace, grants, and investor access.
For early-stage startups seeking funding from Sheraa Angels (Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center), founders should focus on the following actionable tips to maximize their success:
Following these tips will help early-stage startups position themselves strongly for angel investment through Sheraa Angels, benefiting from tailored support, strategic guidance, and valuable ecosystem connections in Sharjah and the wider UAE.
(Source: Sheraa official website and program details at https://startups.sheraa.ae)
| Feature | Sheraa Angels (Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center) |
|---|---|
| Funding Resource Type | Angel investment facilitation through Sheraa's Sharjah Startup Studio (S3) program |
| Target Startup Stage | Early-stage startups, particularly those with early customer traction and revenue generation |
| Geographic Focus | UAE-based startups, with a focus on Sharjah and expansion across the UAE |
| Funding Amount | Not explicitly stated; program offers equity-free support, business license, co-working space, and access to investor networks |
| Application Process | Online application; cohort selection; formal agreement and business licensing required |
| Eligibility Criteria | Scalable tech-enabled business model; early traction; commitment to operate in Sharjah/UAE; priority sectors: EdTech, Sustainability, Manufacturing, Creative Industries; coachable founders |
| Program Duration | 4 months |
| Program Benefits | Equity-free program; 1-year free business license; co-working space access; 15 credits for mentorship and investor introductions; software perks valued over AED 3M; access to Centers of Excellence partners; showcase at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival; networking and expert guidance |
| Stage-Specific Tips | Focus on building product-market fit, leveraging mentorship credits, engaging with investor introductions, and utilizing Sharjah ecosystem resources |
| Notable Investments | Not publicly detailed |
| Advantages | Personalized roadmap; strong local ecosystem support; no equity taken; access to extensive perks and expert advisors; focus on priority sectors; community building |
| Limitations | Limited to startups willing to operate in Sharjah; program cohort size limited; specific sector focus; no direct disclosed funding amount |
| Additional Resources | Links to Sheraa community network and Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival for further opportunities |
Sheraa Angels, an initiative under the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), is a premier funding resource for early-stage startups in the UAE, particularly those based in Sharjah. It is highly relevant for startups with scalable, tech-enabled business models that have early customer traction and revenue, and are committed to operating and expanding within Sharjah and the UAE. Sheraa Angels facilitates angel investments by connecting founders with a network of passionate UAE-based angel investors, including through events like the Emirates Angels Open Day, fostering impactful investor-founder matchmaking.
The core funding and support come through Sheraa's Sharjah Startup Studio (S3) program, a four-month equity-free program offering over AED 3 million in software perks, free one-year business licensing in Sharjah, access to co-working spaces, and 15 credits redeemable for expert mentorship, partner introductions, and VC/capital introductions. The program also includes bi-weekly 1:1 check-ins with Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs) and Sheraa staff to track progress and provide tailored guidance.
Eligibility criteria focus on startups in priority sectors such as EdTech, Sustainability, Manufacturing, and Creative Industries, led by coachable founders with dedicated full-time teams. The program requires a minimum bi-weekly commitment of 2 hours and physical presence in Sharjah for key events like onboarding, demo days, and showcases. Sheraa covers the first-year licensing fee at Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park, with a requirement to maintain licensing for at least two years.
For founders, maximizing success with Sheraa Angels means preparing a scalable, tech-driven business model aligned with Sharjah's priority sectors, demonstrating early market traction, and engaging actively with Sheraa's ecosystem through mentorship and networking opportunities. Founders should leverage the personalized roadmap and resources to refine their pitch and investor relations skills, and participate fully in community events to build strategic partnerships.
In summary, Sheraa Angels offers a comprehensive, founder-first funding path with strong local ecosystem integration, ideal for early-stage startups aiming to scale in Sharjah and the wider UAE. Founders should apply early via Sheraa's official channels, prepare for a rigorous but supportive program, and use the program's extensive perks and investor connections to accelerate growth and secure follow-on funding.
Additional UAE startup resources and application details are available on Sheraa's official website: https://www.startups.sheraa.ae and https://sheraa.ae.
