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Fresh startup news from across the MENA region
9YardsX acquires Labib to advance UAE’s AI innovation ecosystem
9YardsX, the AI and innovation arm of 9Yards Holding, has acquired Labib AI — the first startup from MBZUAI — bringing its talent, IP and technologies into 9YardsX to accelerate deployment of research-led AI across the UAE and region.
Saudi Aramco Bets $800 Million That Open Source Beats Closed AI
Together AI raised an $800M Series C led by Aramco Ventures (Prosperity7) at an $8.3B post-money valuation to scale open-weight model infrastructure; the company reports over $1B in annual bookings and roughly $1.3B total raised.
Abu Dhabi gets a fast lane for US chips and defense tech - UAE
The US upgraded the UAE to Country Group A:5 easing export controls for advanced chips, satellites and defense gear, a change expected to speed tech and defense procurement and bolster Abu Dhabi’s industrial and investment activity.
CITRA and Huawei partner to advance Kuwait's digital future
CITRA and Huawei Kuwait signed an MoU to collaborate on AI, cloud computing, IoT and 5G-Advanced to accelerate Kuwait's digital transformation and support Kuwait Vision 2035. The deal frames joint initiatives for knowledge exchange, pilot projects and skills development tied to the Kuwait 5G-Advanced & AI Era Strategic Whitepaper.
Set up a Health-Tech Business in Qatar: 8 Proven Tips
Qatar is positioning itself as a hub for health-tech startups in 2026 by allowing 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, promoting healthcare under its National Vision 2030, and providing specialised support and funding through entities such as the Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) and its Tech Venture Fund (TVF). Entrepreneurs developing telemonitoring, wearables, AI diagnostics and EHRs are highlighted as priority areas for public procurement and PPPs.
Regional conflict drags MENA startup funding down 22%
MENA startup funding fell 22% in H1 2026 to $1.35 billion with deal count down 41%; funding was highly concentrated in a few large rounds (notably CargoX, Mal and CNTXT AI) and early-stage activity slowed markedly.
ClimateLaunchpad Morocco Starts Regional Tour in Meknes
ClimateLaunchpad Morocco launched a 2026 regional bootcamp tour in Meknes (July 11–12) to support climate entrepreneurs across energy, agriculture, water, waste and circular economy sectors, led by Ron Bloemers and local organizers including Ahmed Larouz.
Tatweer Medical Plans $100m Investment to Expand Egypt's Medical Technology Manufacturing
Tatweer Medical Industries and China’s Mindray will invest more than US$100 million over three years to expand medical device manufacturing in Badr City, Egypt, localising production of ultrasound and diagnostic X‑ray systems and aiming to position Egypt as a regional export hub.
How Emirates Is Spending $2 Billion To Defend Itself Against The World's Newest Premium Airline
Riyadh Air, backed by Saudi sovereign capital, is rapidly scaling international routes and product offerings, prompting Emirates to launch a $2 billion programme upgrading cabins, ground experience and premium products to defend its market position.
Why I'm betting on Dubai
Dr Naim Maadad, CEO and Founder of Gates Hospitality, says Dubai’s long-term investments, diverse talent pool and institutional memory make the city resilient and attractive for hospitality investment despite regional tensions. Gates Hospitality operates brands including Bistro Des Arts, Reform Social & Grill and the resort Six Senses Zighy Bay.
Canada's Gulf investment ties deepen with Humain AI collaboration
Toronto-based AI firm Cohere will receive at least 50 MW of dedicated AI compute from Riyadh-backed Humain, with the deployment expected by late 2027 and potential expansion over five years. The deal, announced during the Canadian prime minister's visit to Saudi Arabia, highlights growing Gulf investment in AI infrastructure.
How AI Supports Real-Time Decision-Making in Saudi Arabia's Airports and Ports
1001, an operational-AI startup led by Bilal Abu‑Ghazaleh, raised $30M Series A to embed real-time decision support across Saudi airports, ports and logistics corridors using a 'living operational model'. The approach aims to improve coordination, reduce integration friction, and unlock measurable economic value.
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