Startup Intelligence Platform
Dubai Cultiv8 is a Shariah-compliant private investment firm headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Established in 2018, the firm specializes in asset management and venture capital, primarily targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the technology, healthcare, education, and other high-potential sectors. Dubai Cultiv8 operates as a subsidiary of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Fund for SME (MBRF), aiming to be the UAE's leading public/private partnership specializing in the SME sector. The firm offers a range of services, including direct investment, co-management, and providing logistics to help businesses scale into international markets. Dubai Cultiv8's investment philosophy centers on active partnership and leadership, offering advisory services, and adhering to global business conduct standards. The firm has made notable investments, such as a multi-million dollar deal in Wahed Invest, a New York-based Shariah-compliant digital investment advisor, through its US$100 million Technology Fund. This investment aligns with Dubai Cultiv8's commitment to promoting financial inclusion and ethical investment opportunities. The firm's portfolio also includes investments in Udrive, a UAE-based pay-per-minute car rental service, and other growth-stage technology companies operating across various sub-sectors like FinTech, Blockchain, MedTech, IoT, AI, and e-commerce in the GCC and other emerging markets. Dubai Cultiv8 is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and holds an Islamic Endorsement, allowing it to conduct business as a fully Islamic financial institution. The firm's leadership includes CEO Arif Al Alawi, who emphasizes the importance of innovation and ethical investment practices in the firm's operations. Dubai Cultiv8's mission is to maximize stakeholder value by introducing high-quality investment products with attention to risk management, replicating successful models in the MENA region, and building expertise in investing and managing start-ups, growth-stage, and late-stage companies in Dubai and beyond.