VentureSouq

VentureSouq is a venture capital firm established in 2013 and headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The firm specializes in managing thematic funds with a focus on early-stage technology companies. Its investment strategy encompasses various sectors, including FinTech, ClimateTech, agriculture tech, environmental tech, food tech, enterprise software, health tech, and digital media. With a global portfolio, VentureSouq aims to support innovative startups in the MENA region and beyond.

Maan Eshgi

General Partner

Sonia Gokhale

Co-Founder and General Partner

Suneel Gokhale

Co-Founder and General Partner

Musaab Hakami

General Partner, Fintech

Tammer Qaddumi

Co-Founder and General Partner

Sonia Weymuller

Co-Founder and General Partner

Past deals in Western Asia

Hakbah

Series A in 2023
Hakbah Fintech is an innovative startup based in Saudi Arabia that focuses on transforming financial savings through a unique social savings model. The company aims to simplify and enhance the savings experience for individuals by offering a digital platform that facilitates the creation and management of savings groups. Users can join existing groups or establish their own, allowing them to save collaboratively with others. The platform supports various savings methods, including time-based contributions, and enables users to conveniently pay installments via debit cards. When it's their turn, participants can easily withdraw funds to their bank accounts, thereby empowering them to take control of their savings in a hassle-free manner. Hakbah's mission is to make savings more accessible to everyone, positively impacting financial habits and social interaction around saving.

Salla

Secondary Market in 2023
Salla is a Saudi-based e-commerce platform that empowers users to establish their own online stores in Arabic, facilitating the sale of products and services directly to customers. The platform allows users to create branded stores with personalized domain names and design options. Store owners can effectively manage their inventory through Salla’s website or mobile application. Additionally, Salla offers a variety of features, including marketing tools, automated invoicing, and performance reports, which aid merchants in enhancing their sales and customer engagement. Users benefit from capabilities such as customer database management, the ability to block customers, and options for promotions and discounts, all without incurring fees or commissions.

Huspy

Series A in 2022
Huspy is a proptech company founded in 2020 and based in Dubai, UAE, that aims to simplify the home financing process. It offers an online mortgage service platform designed to enhance the home-buying experience by making it user-friendly and efficient. Huspy addresses the complexities of securing a mortgage by allowing home buyers to obtain home loans through its web and mobile application, eliminating the need for traditional paperwork. By reimagining the home buying process, Huspy seeks to make obtaining a mortgage a celebratory experience for buyers, ultimately facilitating a more accessible and cost-effective approach to home ownership.

Manara

Pre Seed Round in 2022
Manara is a business that connects global technology companies with untapped Arab tech talent, particularly focusing on computer science graduates from Palestine and women across the Middle East and North Africa region. The company vets and trains these individuals, enabling them to enhance their skills and secure remote or onsite job opportunities in leading tech firms worldwide. Manara's mission is to foster growth within the Arab tech sector by unlocking its human potential.

Cyble

Series A in 2022
Cyble is a cybersecurity firm specializing in cyber intelligence software focused on monitoring dark web activities and cybercrime. Headquartered in Cupertino, California, with additional offices in Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and India, Cyble offers extensive coverage of adversaries, infrastructure, and vulnerabilities. Its platform automates risk assessment processes and integrates deep web intelligence to enhance visibility into cyber threats and risks. This enables governments and enterprises to receive tailored notifications and alerts regarding potential threats, vulnerabilities, and risks, allowing for timely detection, prioritization, and remediation of security issues. Through its advanced data analysis capabilities and expert insights, Cyble empowers organizations to protect their citizens and infrastructure effectively.

Quant Data & Analytics

Series A in 2022
Quant Data & Analytics is a consultancy company based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in data science and offers a range of services including data analytics, business intelligence, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Its expertise extends to data collection, quality management, predictive analytics, and analytics training. Quant aims to empower businesses and government entities by providing them with the tools and insights necessary to become data-driven, thus enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities. Additionally, the company develops a data analytics platform that facilitates project and data management, analytics, and data aggregation, enabling clients to address operational and strategic challenges effectively.

Lucidya

Series B in 2022
Lucidya, LLC is a software as a service (SaaS) company based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, founded in 2016. It specializes in social media monitoring and analytics, offering a platform that enables organizations to detect and analyze spikes in social media activity, track trending hashtags, and access brand statistics through an interactive live dashboard. Lucidya's solution includes real-time alerting, automated reporting, competitive analysis, and benchmarking, making it valuable for a diverse range of clients, including agencies, brands, non-profit organizations, and media industries. Leveraging proprietary artificial intelligence and Arabic natural language processing technologies, Lucidya provides accurate analysis of social media interactions in Arabic, establishing itself as a leading tool in the MENA region. The company has successfully expanded its customer base beyond Saudi Arabia to over six countries, serving various sectors such as telecommunications, banking, automotive, and retail.

Sary

Series C in 2021
Sary is a digital business-to-business marketplace based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, that connects small and medium-sized enterprises with merchant wholesalers of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). Founded in 2018 by Mohammed Aldossary and Khaled AlSiari, Sary aims to streamline the supply chain in the wholesale industry, allowing businesses to efficiently procure inventory. Its mobile and web application offers a range of FMCG products, including beverages, oils, and snacks, facilitating orders from small quantities to truckloads with rapid delivery options, often within 24 hours. Sary serves a diverse clientele, including mini-market chains, hotels, restaurants, and convenience shops, and has expanded its operations to 12 major cities, catering to over 40,000 customers and partnering with more than 1,700 brands and wholesalers. The platform provides users with immediate price quotations and product comparisons, enabling them to manage their expenses effectively as their businesses grow.

Tamatem

Series B in 2021
Tamatem Inc. is a mobile gaming studio and publishing company based in Amman, Jordan, with an additional office in Mountain View, California. Founded in 2013, Tamatem focuses on developing and localizing mobile games specifically for Arabic-speaking smartphone users. The company partners with international studios and developers to adapt and culturally relevantize various game genres, including racing, RPG-MMO, strategy, puzzle, and trivia. With a strong emphasis on user acquisition, distribution, and monetization, Tamatem has successfully published over 40 games, achieving more than 50 million downloads. The company employs a team of 26 people dedicated to optimizing and managing mobile game success in the MENA market.

Dayra

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Dayra is a financial technology company that provides an online platform designed to empower businesses in offering financial services to unbanked gig workers and micro-businesses. By integrating its services through APIs, Dayra enables companies to offer virtual bank accounts, prepaid cards, and access to credit and loans. The company's solutions are aimed at facilitating hassle-free and instant financial services at lower costs compared to traditional lenders, starting with a focus on the Egyptian market. Through its innovative approach, Dayra addresses the financial needs of unbanked individuals, enhancing their access to essential financial resources.

Huspy

Convertible Note in 2021
Huspy is a proptech company founded in 2020 and based in Dubai, UAE, that aims to simplify the home financing process. It offers an online mortgage service platform designed to enhance the home-buying experience by making it user-friendly and efficient. Huspy addresses the complexities of securing a mortgage by allowing home buyers to obtain home loans through its web and mobile application, eliminating the need for traditional paperwork. By reimagining the home buying process, Huspy seeks to make obtaining a mortgage a celebratory experience for buyers, ultimately facilitating a more accessible and cost-effective approach to home ownership.

Rain

Convertible Note in 2021
Rain is a regulated cryptocurrency exchange based in Manama, Bahrain, that aims to facilitate digital transactions in the Middle East. Founded in 2017, the company operates a cryptocurrency trading platform that allows clients to buy, sell, and store digital currencies securely and compliantly. By functioning within a regulatory framework, Rain emphasizes the importance of security and adherence to regulations in the rapidly evolving digital currency landscape.

Tabby

Series B in 2021
Tabby Inc. is a financial technology company based in the United Arab Emirates that offers innovative payment solutions for online and offline shopping. The company specializes in a buy now, pay later service, providing consumers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia with flexible payment options. Customers can choose to pay for their purchases either in a single deferred payment or in multiple installments, allowing them to manage their spending and enhance their shopping experience. Through its platform, Tabby aims to reshape the relationship between consumers and money, promoting financial freedom and responsible spending.

Baraka

Seed Round in 2021
Baraka is an investment application based in the UAE that aims to democratize access to stock markets for all individuals. The platform provides users with educational resources, market news, and comprehensive stock analysis to enhance their investment knowledge and confidence. Baraka enables commission-free investing in a wide range of stocks and exchange-traded funds, allowing users to explore diverse investment opportunities. By focusing on accessibility and empowerment, Baraka seeks to cultivate a new generation of informed investors.

Quant Data & Analytics

Series A in 2021
Quant Data & Analytics is a consultancy company based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in data science and offers a range of services including data analytics, business intelligence, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Its expertise extends to data collection, quality management, predictive analytics, and analytics training. Quant aims to empower businesses and government entities by providing them with the tools and insights necessary to become data-driven, thus enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities. Additionally, the company develops a data analytics platform that facilitates project and data management, analytics, and data aggregation, enabling clients to address operational and strategic challenges effectively.

Wealthes Capital

Series A in 2021
Wealthes Capital is a global investment manager, specializing in alternative investments, with a primary focus on fintech in Europe and real estate in the Middle East (MEA). Since our establishment in 2018, we've been committed to generating attractive returns for our clients while creating enduring value in our portfolio companies by adopting a disciplined investment process. We employ talented professionals and leverage the resources of a global institution with an innovative approach. We invest capital into our products and strategies, ensuring that interests align with our investors and stakeholders. We strive for sustainable value creation through our investments and in the communities where we operate. We take pride in partnering with clients to provide tailored solutions to their needs. Our primary offices are located in Abu Dhabi and London.

Sary

Series B in 2021
Sary is a digital business-to-business marketplace based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, that connects small and medium-sized enterprises with merchant wholesalers of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). Founded in 2018 by Mohammed Aldossary and Khaled AlSiari, Sary aims to streamline the supply chain in the wholesale industry, allowing businesses to efficiently procure inventory. Its mobile and web application offers a range of FMCG products, including beverages, oils, and snacks, facilitating orders from small quantities to truckloads with rapid delivery options, often within 24 hours. Sary serves a diverse clientele, including mini-market chains, hotels, restaurants, and convenience shops, and has expanded its operations to 12 major cities, catering to over 40,000 customers and partnering with more than 1,700 brands and wholesalers. The platform provides users with immediate price quotations and product comparisons, enabling them to manage their expenses effectively as their businesses grow.

Baraka

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Baraka is an investment application based in the UAE that aims to democratize access to stock markets for all individuals. The platform provides users with educational resources, market news, and comprehensive stock analysis to enhance their investment knowledge and confidence. Baraka enables commission-free investing in a wide range of stocks and exchange-traded funds, allowing users to explore diverse investment opportunities. By focusing on accessibility and empowerment, Baraka seeks to cultivate a new generation of informed investors.

NymCard Payment Services

Series A in 2021
NymCard is a payment processing platform founded in 2016, operating from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, with a focus on enhancing the digital payment landscape in Africa and the Middle East. The company specializes in providing an issuer processor solution that allows banks and financial institutions to offer innovative digital payment products, including plastic, virtual, and tokenized cards. NymCard's advanced infrastructure and user-friendly mobile wallet solutions facilitate quick account setup and immediate access to smart payment cards, promoting efficient and secure online transactions. By leveraging open APIs and mobile SDKs, NymCard aims to address the low penetration of payment cards in these regions, thereby driving greater participation in the digital economy.

Tabby

Series A in 2020
Tabby Inc. is a financial technology company based in the United Arab Emirates that offers innovative payment solutions for online and offline shopping. The company specializes in a buy now, pay later service, providing consumers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia with flexible payment options. Customers can choose to pay for their purchases either in a single deferred payment or in multiple installments, allowing them to manage their spending and enhance their shopping experience. Through its platform, Tabby aims to reshape the relationship between consumers and money, promoting financial freedom and responsible spending.

Mamo

Seed Round in 2020
Mamo is a Fintech startup based in Dubai, UAE, focused on providing innovative payment and financial solutions tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The company operates under a Cat 3C Providing Money Services license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority, making it the first licensed Fintech startup in this category in the region. Mamo's flagship offering, Mamo Business, serves as an alternative to traditional banking for SMEs, combining payments, spend management, and analytics into a user-friendly platform. This platform enables businesses to accept payments globally in multiple currencies, manage expenses, and issue virtual cards, thereby streamlining financial operations and enhancing payment success rates. Mamo's diverse customer base includes a variety of sectors, such as B2B services, healthcare, tourism, and retail, making it a crucial partner for businesses looking to optimize their financial processes.

Quant Data & Analytics

Seed Round in 2020
Quant Data & Analytics is a consultancy company based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in data science and offers a range of services including data analytics, business intelligence, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Its expertise extends to data collection, quality management, predictive analytics, and analytics training. Quant aims to empower businesses and government entities by providing them with the tools and insights necessary to become data-driven, thus enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities. Additionally, the company develops a data analytics platform that facilitates project and data management, analytics, and data aggregation, enabling clients to address operational and strategic challenges effectively.

Dapi

Seed Round in 2020
Dapi Ltd is a fintech company that specializes in developing an open banking application programming interface (API) designed to facilitate seamless payment transactions between consumer bank accounts and businesses. Established in 2019 and based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Dapi provides a suite of APIs that enable real-time access to customer bank accounts, payment initiation, and financial data retrieval. This functionality allows developers to create a variety of financial applications, including digital wallets and budget trackers, while also enabling fintech companies to offer services based on bank statement data. Operating in seven countries, including the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, South Africa, and Kuwait, Dapi has experienced significant demand for its services, achieving notable growth in annual recurring revenue.

Sabbar

Seed Round in 2019
Sabbar Ltd., headquartered in Saudi Arabia, operates an on-demand staffing platform focused on blue-collar jobs within the retail, hospitality, and entertainment sectors across MENA. The company's core business is connecting businesses with highly qualified, vetted professionals for casual staff hiring during peak hours or high seasons. Sabbar streamlines the recruitment process by handling interviews, training, placement, shift scheduling, worker payments, and other administrative tasks, thereby reducing associated costs for its clients.

Kitopi

Series B in 2019
Kitopi is a Kitchen as a Service (KaaS) platform that provides restaurants with the essential infrastructure and software needed to establish delivery-only locations efficiently and cost-effectively. Founded in 2018 by Mohamad Ballout, Saman Darkan, Bader Ataya, and Andy Arenas, the company operates a network of over 60 cloud kitchens across the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Kitopi's offerings include kitchen infrastructure, management services, call assistance, delivery management, trained staff, and industry-specific technology, allowing restaurateurs to focus on their culinary creations while minimizing capital expenditure and time. Although Kitopi expanded into the United States in 2019, it exited the market following the onset of the pandemic.

Dapi

Seed Round in 2019
Dapi Ltd is a fintech company that specializes in developing an open banking application programming interface (API) designed to facilitate seamless payment transactions between consumer bank accounts and businesses. Established in 2019 and based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Dapi provides a suite of APIs that enable real-time access to customer bank accounts, payment initiation, and financial data retrieval. This functionality allows developers to create a variety of financial applications, including digital wallets and budget trackers, while also enabling fintech companies to offer services based on bank statement data. Operating in seven countries, including the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, South Africa, and Kuwait, Dapi has experienced significant demand for its services, achieving notable growth in annual recurring revenue.

Tenderd

Seed Round in 2019
Tenderd LLC operates an on-demand marketplace for renting heavy equipment, including bulldozers and cranes, primarily serving the construction and engineering sectors in the Middle East and North Africa. Based in Dubai, the company connects equipment owners with contractors, facilitating efficient access to necessary machinery. Additionally, Tenderd leverages artificial intelligence and analytics to enhance fleet operations, transforming equipment data into actionable insights. This platform allows companies to optimize equipment utilization, manage fuel consumption, and track operational progress while promoting sustainable practices and reducing carbon footprints. Through its comprehensive suite of tools, Tenderd aims to improve safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility within the heavy equipment rental industry.

Lucidya

Series A in 2019
Lucidya, LLC is a software as a service (SaaS) company based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, founded in 2016. It specializes in social media monitoring and analytics, offering a platform that enables organizations to detect and analyze spikes in social media activity, track trending hashtags, and access brand statistics through an interactive live dashboard. Lucidya's solution includes real-time alerting, automated reporting, competitive analysis, and benchmarking, making it valuable for a diverse range of clients, including agencies, brands, non-profit organizations, and media industries. Leveraging proprietary artificial intelligence and Arabic natural language processing technologies, Lucidya provides accurate analysis of social media interactions in Arabic, establishing itself as a leading tool in the MENA region. The company has successfully expanded its customer base beyond Saudi Arabia to over six countries, serving various sectors such as telecommunications, banking, automotive, and retail.

Kitopi

Series A in 2018
Kitopi is a Kitchen as a Service (KaaS) platform that provides restaurants with the essential infrastructure and software needed to establish delivery-only locations efficiently and cost-effectively. Founded in 2018 by Mohamad Ballout, Saman Darkan, Bader Ataya, and Andy Arenas, the company operates a network of over 60 cloud kitchens across the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Kitopi's offerings include kitchen infrastructure, management services, call assistance, delivery management, trained staff, and industry-specific technology, allowing restaurateurs to focus on their culinary creations while minimizing capital expenditure and time. Although Kitopi expanded into the United States in 2019, it exited the market following the onset of the pandemic.

Telfaz11

Series A in 2018
Telfaz11 is a media production company based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, founded in 2011. It operates an Arabic multi-channel network that focuses on talent management, comedy, entertainment, and content creation. The company specializes in producing and distributing engaging online content, partnering with video platforms to deliver captivating series and films that resonate with local audiences while maintaining universal appeal. Telfaz11 influences social trends and provides opportunities for brands to promote themselves through its creative entertainment offerings, ensuring a blend of entertainment and brand promotion within its network.

Souqalmal

Series B in 2017
Souqalmal.com LLC FZ operates a leading financial comparison website in the Middle East, providing consumers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia with the tools to search and compare various financial products. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Dubai, the platform offers detailed information on credit cards, personal loans, car loans, bank accounts, mortgages, and various insurance options, including car, home, travel, and SME insurance. Users can obtain real-time quotes for insurance in under 60 seconds and have their policies issued within an hour. Souqalmal.com has also expanded its services to include mobile phone and broadband plans, as well as educational options like schools and nurseries. The company has received multiple awards for its innovative approach and has grown its insurance business significantly. With backing from notable investors and a proven track record, Souqalmal.com continues to empower consumers to make informed financial decisions.

Zoomcar

Series B in 2016
Zoomcar is a leading car-sharing marketplace operating primarily in emerging markets, with over 20,000 cars available on its technology-driven platform across India, Southeast Asia, and Egypt. The company enables host entrepreneurs to share their vehicles safely and easily, generating additional passive income. Guests benefit from a wide range of affordable cars for memorable driving experiences. Founded in 2013 and based in Bengaluru, India, Zoomcar employs over 300 people and serves 50 cities across India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Egypt. Uri Levine, co-founder of mobility companies Waze and Moovit, is the Chairman of the Board. The company's revenue comes mainly from short-term self-drive rentals and vehicle subscriptions, with a significant portion derived from its operations in India.

Souqalmal

Convertible Note in 2016
Souqalmal.com LLC FZ operates a leading financial comparison website in the Middle East, providing consumers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia with the tools to search and compare various financial products. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Dubai, the platform offers detailed information on credit cards, personal loans, car loans, bank accounts, mortgages, and various insurance options, including car, home, travel, and SME insurance. Users can obtain real-time quotes for insurance in under 60 seconds and have their policies issued within an hour. Souqalmal.com has also expanded its services to include mobile phone and broadband plans, as well as educational options like schools and nurseries. The company has received multiple awards for its innovative approach and has grown its insurance business significantly. With backing from notable investors and a proven track record, Souqalmal.com continues to empower consumers to make informed financial decisions.

Zoomcar

Series B in 2016
Zoomcar is a leading car-sharing marketplace operating primarily in emerging markets, with over 20,000 cars available on its technology-driven platform across India, Southeast Asia, and Egypt. The company enables host entrepreneurs to share their vehicles safely and easily, generating additional passive income. Guests benefit from a wide range of affordable cars for memorable driving experiences. Founded in 2013 and based in Bengaluru, India, Zoomcar employs over 300 people and serves 50 cities across India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Egypt. Uri Levine, co-founder of mobility companies Waze and Moovit, is the Chairman of the Board. The company's revenue comes mainly from short-term self-drive rentals and vehicle subscriptions, with a significant portion derived from its operations in India.

Zoomcar

Series A in 2014
Zoomcar is a leading car-sharing marketplace operating primarily in emerging markets, with over 20,000 cars available on its technology-driven platform across India, Southeast Asia, and Egypt. The company enables host entrepreneurs to share their vehicles safely and easily, generating additional passive income. Guests benefit from a wide range of affordable cars for memorable driving experiences. Founded in 2013 and based in Bengaluru, India, Zoomcar employs over 300 people and serves 50 cities across India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Egypt. Uri Levine, co-founder of mobility companies Waze and Moovit, is the Chairman of the Board. The company's revenue comes mainly from short-term self-drive rentals and vehicle subscriptions, with a significant portion derived from its operations in India.

Knot Standard

Angel Round in 2013
Knot Standard Limited is a custom menswear brand that specializes in selling hand-made suits, shirts, blazers, trousers, and a range of accessories online. Established in 2010 and headquartered in New York, the company allows customers to submit their measurements via Webcams for a personalized fit. Its clientele includes a diverse range of individuals, from professionals to those purchasing attire for special occasions, primarily targeting men aged 25 to 45. Knot Standard operates showrooms in several major cities, including Atlanta, New York, Dubai, Dallas, Los Angeles, Austin, Houston, and Washington, D.C., while also maintaining production facilities in locations such as Brooklyn, Portugal, Dubai, and Hong Kong. Additionally, the brand offers ties, squares, scarves, and gift packages, catering to various customer needs.

Knot Standard

Seed Round in 2012
Knot Standard Limited is a custom menswear brand that specializes in selling hand-made suits, shirts, blazers, trousers, and a range of accessories online. Established in 2010 and headquartered in New York, the company allows customers to submit their measurements via Webcams for a personalized fit. Its clientele includes a diverse range of individuals, from professionals to those purchasing attire for special occasions, primarily targeting men aged 25 to 45. Knot Standard operates showrooms in several major cities, including Atlanta, New York, Dubai, Dallas, Los Angeles, Austin, Houston, and Washington, D.C., while also maintaining production facilities in locations such as Brooklyn, Portugal, Dubai, and Hong Kong. Additionally, the brand offers ties, squares, scarves, and gift packages, catering to various customer needs.
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