The funding gap is extreme

Male-founded startups took over 96% of the $375 million deployed in August. Female-founded startups secured just $8.5 million across two deals.

Women are launching businesses

Abu Dhabi issued 3,058 new business licenses to Emirati women in the first half of 2026. The Gulf's startup ecosystem is thriving with female entrepreneurs.

Investor networks favor men

Gulf investor networks remain male-dominated at decision-making levels. Deal flow follows networks, limiting access for female founders.

“Gulf investor networks are still very male-dominated, especially at decision-making levels. That matters, because deal flow follows networks.”

First women-led PE firm closes

Aliph Capital, the Gulf's first women-founded private equity firm, closed its debut fund at $200 million. It will invest $15-40 million per company.

Accelerators step in to help

The Women in Tech Accelerator by Standard Chartered often serves as the primary financial lifeline for early-stage female-led tech startups.

Saudi grants awarded to women

Standard Chartered and Falak Holding awarded three Saudi women-led startups equity-free grant funding totaling $45,000 in Riyadh last week.

Riyadh hosts wealth summit

The Women Shaping Wealth Summit on September 28-29 will connect female founders with investors through a Live Demo Day and networking sessions.

UAE expats plan to stay

44% of affluent UAE residents plan to retire there, despite 92% expressing concern about geopolitical instability. More than half stayed longer than intended.

Financial benefits drive retention

96% of UAE expats earn more than in comparable roles at home, and 97% save more. Seven in ten believe living abroad will accelerate retirement by three years.

Yas Island gets $3.3 billion

Abu Dhabi's Miral will invest $3.26 billion over five years to expand hotels and theme parks on Yas Island, targeting a 35% increase in room inventory.

Harry Potter comes in 2029

The investment includes a Harry Potter-themed expansion of Warner Bros theme park opening in 2029, plus new Ferrari World rides and other experiences.

UAE pledges billions to Germany

The UAE committed €40 billion to Germany for AI, energy, and defense investments. The minister called it "just the beginning" of the relationship.

“We're going to shop around for big opportunities to bring this relationship to the next level.”

Abu Dhabi invests in India

International Holding Company and Adani Group will invest $25 billion in 14 projects in Odisha, covering minerals, chemicals, renewables, and infrastructure.

Gulf IPO market slows sharply

Gulf listing volumes stand at less than $1.1 billion this year, down from $5.1 billion in 2025, partly due to the U.S.-Iran war.