Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, Hub71, has selected 27 startups for its 18th cohort in a landmark move, marking its first-ever intake composed entirely of international companies. The cohort was selected from a record 2,453 applications from 112 countries, resulting in a highly competitive 1.1% acceptance rate. The selected startups have collectively raised nearly AED 844.7 million, signaling the maturity and market readiness of the companies now choosing the UAE capital for their global expansion.
Quick Facts
- 27 startups selected from 12 countries
- First 100% international cohort for Hub71
- Cohort has raised a total of AED 844.7 million
- Highly competitive 1.1% acceptance rate
A Magnet for Global Founders
The decision to base all 27 startups outside the UAE before selection underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a launchpad for high-growth ventures. According to Hub71, all selected companies are currently undergoing licensing and establishing operations in the city. The ecosystem also noted that 31% of applications were referred through its partner and founder networks, pointing to strong community confidence in its value proposition.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, said, “Cohort 18 reflects the continued flow of startups choosing to build from Abu Dhabi. The companies joining us are developing technologies with clear market application and the ability to scale. At Hub71, we enable founders to secure commercial traction and capital, and to grow from Abu Dhabi into global markets.”
Deep Tech and Specialized Ecosystems
The new cohort will be integrated into Hub71’s sector-agnostic Access programme as well as its specialist ecosystems, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s strategic focus on digital assets, climate tech, and life sciences.
Seven startups are joining Hub71+ Life Sciences, including UK-based Amilis, which has raised AED 5.9 million for its AI platform that supports clinical decisions in reproductive health.
Six startups will enter Hub71+ Digital Assets. Among them is Wingbits from Sweden, a company that has raised AED 34.5 million for its global network of tracking stations providing real-time air traffic data.
Five startups are joining Hub71+ ClimateTech, including Persium from the UK. The company secured AED 6.2 million to develop miniaturized air quality sensors and AI-powered digital twins to combat air pollution.
Other notable additions include US-based EchoTwin AI, which has raised AED 29.4 million to create digital twins of municipal fleets, and Kenya’s Duck, a retail data platform that helps brands optimize restocking.
Strengthening Global Innovation Corridors
The cohort, which includes startups from Pre-Seed to Series A stages, demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s strengthening ties with global innovation hubs. Highlighting the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), the cohort includes Indian startups like Uravu Labs, a ClimateTech water solutions company, and Endimension Technology, an AI-powered radiology platform.
The effectiveness of Hub71’s outreach was also evident with the inclusion of three startups from Hong Kong—Pubrio, Craftt, and KPay—which participated in Hub71’s Hong Kong Immersion Programme last year. KPay, a fintech platform that has raised AED 238.7 million, is expanding its operations from Abu Dhabi to help businesses manage payments and financial operations.
The Access Programme Advantage
Startups in Cohort 18 will benefit from Hub71’s 12-month Access Programme, which provides up to AED 250,000 in in-kind incentives and AED 250,000 in cash through a SAFE note. The program also offers tailored mentorship, investor introductions, regulatory support, and access to Hub71’s network of corporate and government partners. With this new cohort, the Hub71 ecosystem now comprises 525 startups.
About Hub71
Hub71 is Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem that connects founders, investors, and partners to foster innovation and growth. It supports startups through its various programs by providing access to capital, market opportunities, and a supportive community to help them scale from Abu Dhabi to the world.
Source: Zawya
