UAE-based telecom and digital services company du has unveiled du Ventures, a new corporate venture capital initiative with a fund size of US$50 million, established in collaboration with investment firm Shorooq.
The newly launched fund is designed to back high-potential startups operating in sectors such as artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, cloud computing, gaming, customer experience, loyalty solutions, and enterprise software. Through this initiative, du aims to support entrepreneurs developing innovative technologies that can contribute to the UAE’s growing digital economy and the broader regional technology ecosystem.
du Ventures will focus on identifying and investing in startups that demonstrate strong growth potential and strategic relevance to du’s long-term business objectives. A substantial portion of the fund will be allocated to startups headquartered in the UAE, reinforcing the company’s commitment to fostering local innovation.
Commenting on the launch, Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO, du, said, “du Ventures represents our commitment to driving meaningful digital transformation while contributing to the UAE’s ambitions to build a globally competitive digital economy. Through this platform, we are investing in technologies and founders that align closely with our strategic priorities. Leveraging du’s scale, infrastructure, and enterprise reach with startup innovation, we aim to accelerate the commercialization of emerging technologies and create long term value for our customers, shareholders, and the wider economy.”
The fund will be managed by Shorooq, which will oversee investment decisions and work closely with du to identify opportunities that align with the telecom operator’s strategic vision.
Mahmoud Adi, Founding Partner, Shorooq said, “Partnering with du on this initiative is a natural fit for Shorooq. We share a common belief that the region’s most promising startups deserve access to both capital and the strategic infrastructure that du can offer. du Ventures will enable us to bridge the gap between innovation and scale, empowering founders to bring transformative solutions to market faster.”
The launch of du Ventures highlights the increasing role of corporate venture capital in supporting technology-driven entrepreneurship and accelerating innovation across the Middle East.
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