Aria Ventures launches $1 million Deep tech venture studio in Egypt

Aria Ventures launches $1 million Deep tech venture studio in Egypt

Egypto based Aria Ventures, a specialized venture studio focused on building startups, launches a $1 million (50 million EGP) investment to support promising companies in the Deep-Technology sector between 2025 and 2026, which it then aims to grow to a $4 million ( 200 million EGP).

As per the press release, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between pioneering research and market applications, enabling deep technological innovations to grow and flourish. The sectors include industry, agriculture, healthcare, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, Biotechnology, industrial digitalization, Internet of Things (IoT), Nanotechnology, robotics, and other fields that rely on profound scientific and technical innovation. 

Dr Amr Al-Awamry, CEO of Aria Ventures, stated, “We work on building startups from the ground up by validating ideas, assembling teams, providing technical and commercial infrastructure, and supporting projects through early growth stages.”  He added, “The company’s model combines strategic capital deployment with direct involvement to bridge the gap between pioneering research and market-ready startups.” 

In line with its commitment to fostering innovation, Aria Ventures recently launched the DeepTecher competition.  This competition aims to discover and nurture technological research and transform it into promising Deep-Technology projects.  The competition provides a platform for innovators to showcase their technologies and receive the necessary support to turn them into successful startups.  It includes several evaluation and mentoring stages and offers valuable prizes and funding opportunities for winning projects through Aria Ventures. 

Al-Awamry added that this step underscores Aria Ventures’ commitment to supporting deep technological innovation in the region, contributing to a knowledge-based economy driven by advanced technologies, and enhancing the position of Egyptian startups in the global Deep-Technology landscape. 

Earlier The Hashgraph Association also launched the Africa Hedera Hackathon with prizes over $1 million, as well as a deeptech studio in Saudi Arabia in 2024.

Dubai’s VARA and Blockchain Ireland partner to advance virtual asset startups

Dubai’s VARA and Blockchain Ireland partner to advance virtual asset startups

Blockchain Ireland recently signed an MoU with Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority [VARA] to partner towards deepening collaboration between two forward looking jurisdictions committed to the responsible advancement of virtual assets, Web3, and emerging digital economies.

As per the LinkedIn post, the agreement aims to foster bilateral knowledge exchange and regulatory dialogue, support start-ups and scale-ups looking to expand across the EU and the Middle East, build bridges between talent, capital, and innovation ecosystems and promote policy leadership and cross-border cooperation in the virtual asset sector.

Over the past decade, economic ties between the two countries have strengthened significantly. Irish exports to the UAE have grown by 127%, with imports increasing by 3,094%. The total bilateral trade is now value at more than €2.25 billion annually.

Blockchain Ireland noted on LinkedIn, “As the global regulatory landscape evolves, we believe strategic partnerships like this are vital to shaping a safe, secure, and innovation-friendly future for the industry.”

SuiHub and VARA Dubai collaborate to support startups

SuiHub and VARA Dubai collaborate to support startups

SuiHub MENA and the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) have signed an agreement to support startups, develop local talent, and share insights that can help grow the virtual asset space in the Middle East.

As per the announcement, the collaboration represents a shared vision to make Dubai a global hotspot for virtual asset innovation. VARA, established in 2022, oversees the regulation and supervision of virtual assets in the Emirate. SuiHub MENA, backed by the Sui Foundation, is committed to supporting builders and developers in the web3 ecosystem. Together, they will engage in activities that simplify compliance processes for startups, provide advisory support, and generate insights to guide future virtual asset policies in the region.

The partnership includes several initiatives, such as regulatory and licensing educational support by jointly hosted workshops and guidance for startups navigating Dubai’s licensing regime, including advisory sessions and educational materials to guide founders and participants. It also includes ecosystem development, where VARA will support SuiHub MENA’s flagship innovation center based in Dubai through roundtables and strategic engagements with government stakeholders, as well as a joint exploration of research opportunities.

Additionally both entities will co create programs that are aimed at expanding local technical expertise aligned with the regulatory needs of the market. Both will also share anonymized data to assess the sector’s growth and its impact on employment, investment, and economic contributions.

SuiHub MENA will facilitate introductions between VARA and ecosystem projects while contributing insights for economic policy development. Both organizations will explore co-authored research and publications focused on the industry’s evolution.

“At SuiHub MENA, we believe in building strategic and supportive collaborations between regulators and founders.” shared Kristof Lukovich, CEO of SuiHub MENA. “Our collaboration with VARA is a significant forward and aligns with SuiHub MENA’s positive commitment to helping to shape a global benchmark for virtual asset innovation, regulatory clarity, and sustainable growth here in the region.”

CoinMENA and Dubai digital asset association to support crypto in MENA

CoinMENA and Dubai digital asset association to support crypto in MENA

The Dubai Digital Assets Association (D2A2), dedicated to advancing education, collaboration, and innovation in the digital asset industry, has partnered with CoinMENA FZE, a digital asset brokerage licensed by Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority serving the MENA region.As part of the partnership, D2A2 and CoinMENA will collaborate on thought leadership, events, and joint initiatives that empower users, support startups, and engage regulators and policymakers to help shape the future of crypto in the Middle East.

As per the press release, the partnership marks a key milestone in the mission to create a more connected and compliant digital asset ecosystem across the region. Together, D2A2 and CoinMENA will work to support greater access to digital assets, enhance regional regulatory dialogue, and foster innovation for both retail and institutional market participants.

CoinMENA provides both retail and institutional investors with secure and reliable access to digital assets. Its commitment to safety and accessibility aligns closely with D2A2’s mission to promote best practices, education, and responsible innovation in the digital asset sector.

In 2024, Dubai’s virtual assets regulatory accomplishments was the center of discussions at an event hosted by Dubai Digital Assets Association (D2A2), supported by Dubai Chamber of Commerce. On the one-year anniversary of VARA (Virtual assets regulatory authority) in Dubai, the forum provided a platform for industry stakeholders to review and analyze the development of the regulatory landscape for virtual assets and the challenges industry is facing. The feedback and insights gathered during the roundtable discussion were consolidated into a submission by D2A2 on behalf of the stakeholders to regulatory authorities for suitable action.

96 firms want to get into UAE DFSA tokenization sandbox

96 firms want to get into UAE DFSA tokenization sandbox

 96 firms have shown interest in participating in UAE’s Dubai Financial Services Authority ( DFSA) tokenization regulatory sandbox. As per the DFSA announcement, the launch of the sandbox is part of DFSA’s strategy to support responsible financial innovation within the Dubai International Free Center.

The Tokenization Regulatory Sandbox forms part of the DFSA’s Innovation Testing License program and supports the regulator’s broader commitment to fostering innovation while maintaining market integrity and protecting investors. Expressions of interest came from a diverse range of sectors that are exploring the tokenization of financial assets and instruments, including those associated with the tokenization of shares, bonds (including Islamic bonds (sukuk)), units in a fund, and the trading and safe custody of those assets – reflecting the broad potential of tokenization across the financial ecosystem.

Interest came from both financial institutions and startups.

Justin Baldacchino, Managing Director, Supervision, DFSA, said, “We are excited to see such strong interest in the DFSA’s Tokenisation Regulatory Sandbox and to talk about it at the Dubai FinTech Summit. This momentum supports the DFSA’s strategic commitment – and aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 goal – to position Dubai among the world’s top four global financial hubs by 2033. The sandbox marks a new chapter in our engagement with innovative financial technologies, enabling firms to safely test tokenized solutions in a transparent, measured, and responsible manner, within a well-regulated environment, without being subject to the full suite of regulatory requirements that would otherwise apply.”

The DFSA’s themed sandbox approach enables targeted supervision, constructive regulatory dialogue, and the development of tailored policy responses to emerging financial technologies while fostering responsible innovation in the market.

Following the Expressions of Interest stage, selected firms will be invited to apply for an Innovation Testing License and enter a live testing phase under DFSA oversight, where they can refine their offerings while addressing critical areas such as investor protection, transparency, and financial stability. Upon successful completion of the program, firms may apply to transition to a full, unrestricted license, or withdraw their Innovation Testing License.

Prior to the launch of the tokenization regulatory sandbox, the DFSA has launched an explainer guide for its Innovation Testing License. The Innovation Testing License – the DFSA’s regulatory sandbox – is a restricted financial services license that allows eligible firms to test innovative financial products, services, and business models within a controlled environment with temporary modifications to existing regulatory requirements whilst being subject to close supervisory oversight. Launched in 2017, the Innovation Testing License remains a cornerstone of the DFSA’s approach to support the responsible development of financial technology solutions in the DIFC.

Designed as a practical tool for firms interested in applying for the license, the DFSA’s Innovation Testing License explainer guide offers clear and accessible information on how to engage with the DFSA’s regulatory sandbox, test innovative solutions, and navigate the path to full authorization. It outlines the purpose of the license, eligibility criteria, application process, and obligations firms must meet during the testing phase.

UAE Ghaf Labs and Bybit exchange to drive crypto adoption in MENA

UAE Ghaf Labs and Bybit exchange to drive crypto adoption in MENA

Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume which currently holds an in principle approval from Dubai regulator, and UAE based Ghaf Labs, a MENA-based Web3 boutique advisory and consultancy firm, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enter a multi-year strategic partnership that aims to drive crypto adoption, ecosystem development, and real-world utility across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

This partnership is on a mission to position the region as a global Web3 hub by enabling innovation, supporting regulatory clarity, and fostering meaningful use cases that integrate blockchain into daily life.


Ghaf Labs, backed by Ghaf Capital Partners, offers tailored advisory and incubation services to Web3 ventures across MENA. With its strong regional network and regulatory insight. Together, Bybit and Ghaf Labs will provide equity-free grants, startup support, and access to strategic resources for ventures exploring blockchain, AI, and sustainability, central to the region’s digital transformation.

“Our partnership with Ghaf Labs is rooted in a shared vision for the MENA region, one where crypto isn’t just adopted, but lived,” said Helen Liu, COO of Bybit. “From developer tooling to lifestyle integration, we’re building the bridges that bring crypto into everyday life.”

The collaboration will also launch a series of education initiatives designed to nurture local Web3 talent. These include university partnerships, bootcamps, and developer hackathons, all aimed at empowering the next generation of blockchain builders.

Additionally, both parties will co-develop educational content to improve Web3 literacy across Arabic- and English-speaking communities in the region.

“This partnership with Bybit reflects our shared commitment to advancing Web3 infrastructure, education, and institutional engagement across the MENA region. Together, we aim to accelerate innovation and continue to position the UAE as a global hub for digital assets.”
said Feras Al Sadek, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Ghaf Labs.

Lara on the Block spoke with Al Sadek asking why Bybit in particular, his reply, “Bybit brings more than just liquidity and listing power. The decision was rooted in long-term alignment: Bybit has consistently demonstrated commitment to Web3 ecosystem growth, regional presence in MENA, and a partner-first approach. Unlike other exchanges, Bybit is building beyond trading, with initiatives in education, infrastructure, payments, and community development. We’ve supported Bybit from the beginning, and this partnership reflects our continued belief in their vision and values.”

Ghaf Labs has invested in MENA and International startups since its inception, so we asked Al Sadek what added value would Bybit bring in? He noted that the crypto exchange offered three layers of added value. The first was distribution and exposure paving a direct path to exchange listings, co-marketing and user acquisition at scale, secondly was product integration such as access to Bybit Card, API infrastructure, and on-chain tools to enable real-world utility and faster product-market fit, and finally was credibility & reach where being affiliated with a top-tier global exchange enhances startup credibility, which is critical for follow-on investment and partnerships.


Beyond development, the partnership highlights the real-world utility of crypto through lifestyle applications like the Bybit Card. This product connects digital assets with premium experiences, including exclusive access through partners such as Grand Millennium Hotels in Dubai—demonstrating the role of crypto in elevating travel, luxury, and everyday spending.

Speaking on this to Lara on the Block, Al Sadek noted that Bybit Card is a gateway to real-world crypto utility. He explained, “We see it as a foundational layer across our startup ecosystem. From loyalty programs to on-chain-to-off-chain commerce, the card can power a new wave of fintech experiences. One early proof point is our tripartite collaboration with Grand Millennium Hotel, where Bybit Cardholders now enjoy up to 30% off across F&B, rooms, salons, and events. We plan to expand this model, embedding Bybit Card access into everyday products, services, and reward mechanisms offered by our portfolio projects.”

In 2023, Ghaf Labs, partnered with Sui Foundation, a Blockchain Foundation that supports the growth and proliferation of the Sui blockchain protocol (“Sui”) and associated ecosystem.

Animoca Brands opens office in UAE and appoints Managing Director

Animoca Brands opens office in UAE and appoints Managing Director

Animoca Brands today announced its official expansion into the Middle East, with a presence in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to meet the growing demands of Web3 organizations moving into the region. The company has also appointed Omar Elassar as managing director for the Middle East and head of global strategic partnerships.

As per the press release, the Dubai office will serve as a hub to engage with both local and international partners to foster innovation, guide strategic direction and operations and develop partnerships.

Oman Elassar will oversee the Middle East growth and operations. As a Web3 veteran Oman has eight years of Web3 native technology experience having held various executive roles with Polkadot, Ripple and others. He has also worked across corporate and technology strategy, as well as financial advisory at firms including Oliver Wyman, Deloitte, and Morgan Stanley. He holds an MBA from INSEAD, and an Honours degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Waterloo in Canada.

Commenting on the appointment, Evan Auyang, group president of Animoca Brands, said, “Omar’s deep expertise in Web3 makes him an exceptional addition to Animoca Brands. His leadership will be a key driver in driving Animoca Brands’ strategic growth in the Middle East and beyond.”

Omar Elassar, managing director for Middle East and head of global strategic partnerships, added, “We are excited to establish our first office in the Middle East, one of the world’s most connected innovation hubs, to leverage the region’s vibrant landscape and support the evolving needs of the Web3 industry locally and globally. Joining Animoca Brands at this phase in its journey presents a unique opportunity to work with visionary builders and contribute to the wider integration of blockchain technology in a market that is poised for significant growth.”

​Animoca Brands has been active in the MENA region

Already Animoca brands has been active in the region whether in Saudi Arabia or the UAE. Earlier this year is signed an agreement with Saudi Neom, and also led an investment in UAE based Param Labs, an independent Web3 Blockchain gaming and technology studio totaling $7 million.

Digital asset startups in Hub71 raise $100 million in 2024

Digital asset startups in Hub71 raise $100 million in 2024

Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, in its 2024 Impact Report, noted that startups in the Digital Assets program raised more than $100 million. As per the report in 2024 Hub71 startups recorded $2.17 billion (AED 8.02 billion) in funding; a 44.7% year-on-year increase from $1.5 billion (AED 5.4 billion) in 2023, demonstrating strong investor confidence in Abu Dhabi’s innovation economy. Revenue generated by startups also climbed to $1.2 billion (AED 4.5 billion), up from $1 billion (AED 3.5 billion) the previous year, reflecting sustained commercial traction across priority sectors.

Much of this rapid growth was fueled by Hub71, which is driving sector-wide transformation through its specialist ecosystems. Hub71+ Digital Assets, Hub71+ ClimateTech, and the newly launched Hub71+ AI are attracting startups that are developing impactful solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Startups in the Digital Assets program alone have raised more than $100 million, while partnerships with global tech leaders like Google, NVIDIA, Solana, Hashed and AWS are accelerating innovation across Web3, AI, renewable energy, and deep tech.

During the year, Hub71 received over 3,100 applications from entrepreneurs representing more than 20 countries, highlighting the growing global appetite to build from the UAE capital. Of the 46 startups selected, approximately over 70% came from international markets, with more than half in the Seed or Series A stages. Startups from the US, UK and Germany, made up nearly 63% of Cohort 16, cementing the city’s reputation as a gateway between established tech hubs and high-growth emerging markets.

Ahmad Ali Alwan, Chief Executive Officer of Hub71, said, “Hub71 began as an ambitious idea to enable founders to build from Abu Dhabi. That idea has since grown into a thriving community of entrepreneurs, investors, and partners working together to drive lasting impact. The progress captured in this report reflects the strength of our ecosystem and the trust placed in us by those who believe in Abu Dhabi’s long-term potential. As we look ahead, our focus remains on empowering founders and positioning Abu Dhabi as a global hub for technology and innovation.”

Hub71’s momentum mirrors Abu Dhabi’s growing status on the global startup map. According to the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report, the emirate is the fastest-growing emerging startup ecosystem in MENA, with its ecosystem value rising 28% to $4.2 billion between mid-2021 and end-2023. StartupBlink’s 2024 rankings placed Abu Dhabi 6th regionally and 2nd in the UAE, reinforcing its rising global profile.

Capital access remains a central pillar of Hub71’s strategy. In 2024, capital partners deployed $65 million (AED 238 million) into its startup community. The global tech ecosystem welcomed new investors, including Princeville Capital, The Catalyst, and Golden Gate Ventures.

Meanwhile, Tech Barza, Hub71’s exclusive capital club for family offices, recorded its first startup deal and a 10% increase in membership. To unlock early-stage capital, Hub71 launched the Angel Investor Support Package empowering five new angel networks, including Falcon Valley and Qora71, to facilitate more early-stage ticket investments, thereby accelerating the growth and scalability of startups within the Abu Dhabi ecosystem.

Unlocking market access through strategic partnerships

Beyond funding, strategic partnerships remain a key pillar of Hub71’s value proposition, playing a critical role in helping startups gain traction. In 2024, startups signed 91 corporate deals with government and private sector partners worth $28 million (AED 103 million), accelerating their ability to scale and commercialize their solutions.

Programs like the Regulatory Sandbox, co-developed with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), Abu Dhabi Mobility, and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), enabled startups to pilot cutting-edge technologies in sectors such as smart mobility, digital health, food innovation, and alternative proteins.

Startup successes: Scaling impact from Abu Dhabi

In a year marked by an evolving funding environment, Hub71 startups captured investor attention with landmark raises that signal both global relevance and real-world impact. FinTech startup FlapKap, raised $34 million (AED 124.7 million) in pre-Series A funding to expand its AI-driven lending solutions across the GCC. ClimateTech pioneer 44.01 secured $37 million (AED 135.7 million) in Series A funding to scale its CO₂ mineralization technology that transforms captured emissions into rock, contributing to global decarbonization. Meanwhile, HealthTech innovator BioSapien closed a $5.5 million (AED 20 million) pre-Series A round to accelerate clinical trials of its MediChip™, a 3D-printed implant that delivers localized cancer treatment with minimal side effects.

Today, Hub71 is home to a vibrant community of founders building high-impact startups that address global challenges and unlock new markets; driven by access to capital, expert support and sector-specific expertise to attract top talent and fuel Abu Dhabi’s innovation agenda.

About Hub71:

Hub71 is Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem that enables founders to build globally enduring homegrown tech companies in any sector by providing access to global markets, a capital ecosystem, a global network of partners, and a vibrant community filled with highly skilled talent, governed by forward-thinking regulation.

Disrupt to invest $100 million in MENA AI and emerging tech startups

Disrupt to invest $100 million in MENA AI and emerging tech startups

Disrupt.com has announced that it is committed to investing $100 million in MENA’s AI and emerging technologies. The company has a proven track record of scaling bootstrapped businesses into global successes.

Founded by Aaqib Gadit, Uzair Gadit, and Umair Gadit, Disrupt.com is the evolution of a journey that started in a small Karachi office. The early team built Cloudways from the ground up, leading to its $350 million acquisition by US-listed DigitalOcean Holdings in 2022—the largest tech exit in Pakistan’s history. Now, with Disrupt.com, we are reinvesting our success to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.

As per the announcement the company has already deployed over $40 million, supporting four growth-stage companies (including PureSquare, ZIGChain, Squatwolf) seven early-stage investments, and a landmark exit. With 650+ professionals, we provide deep operational support across AI, cybersecurity, Web3.0, automotive technology, and retail innovation.

As founding partner Aaqib Gadit states, “Now is the time to double down on our experience and financial investment to build the next wave of startups shaping the future.”

Hub71 admits Five digital asset startups to Cohort 16

Hub71 admits Five digital asset startups to Cohort 16

Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global technology ecosystem, has admitted, five digital asset startups out of a total of 27 startups into its latest Cohort 16. The startups span across its three programs: Access, Hub71+ ClimateTech, and Hub71+ Digital Assets. Invoice Mate, Rilla Network, Sustainable Bitcoin Protocol, and 1Money are part of the Digital assets program.

Since the onset of Hub71 the venture ecosystem has support 357 startups, collectively securing over $145 million with an average of $4.9 million per company.

Over 1,300 companies/startups submitted applications. Under the Hub71 Digital assets program was InvoiceMate is a Blockchain & AI powered platform bridging conventional businesses with crypto liquidity, Redbrick is a cloud-based game and metaverse engine using blockchain and AI to streamline creation and distribution for all skill levels, Rilla Network is a decentralized infrastructure that unlocks the hidden potential of live streaming ecosystems while delivering exponential savings, Sustainable Bitcoin Protocol enables institutional investors to embed verifiable clean energy into their Bitcoin holdings—transforming Bitcoin’s distributed energy demand into a catalyst for the global energy transition, and 1Money which is developing the world’s first payment network exclusively designed for stablecoins, and specifically engineered to be the fastest, cheapest, and most compliant.

Among the new participants in Hub71’s Access programme is Vivan Therapeutics, a UK-based precision medicine company developing AI-driven cancer treatments using fruit fly models. The firm has raised US$10 million (AED 36 million) in funding. While in the Climate Tech program is Theion, a German company focused on developing sustainable sulphur-based batteries that can store up to three times more energy than conventional batteries.

Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, said, “The selection process is highly competitive, reflecting the exceptional calibre of startups in our ecosystem. These companies are advancing innovation across key tech sectors while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global tech hub.”

The selected companies will benefit from access to Hub71’s network of mentors, partners, and investors, providing them with market opportunities, talent, and capital to support their commercial growth.