Shorooq Partners is a venture capital firm based in the UAE that backs bold founders from the region and helps them scale globally. Since its inception, the firm has focused on early-stage investments and has become one of the most active investors in MENA. With the launch of its new AI-focused platform, Shorooq is positioning itself at the center of the next wave of transformative technologies.
The newly launched fund is dedicated to artificial intelligence, targeting startups that are building transformative AI technologies with global potential.
The platform combines capital with strategic infrastructure and access to global markets, reflecting Shorooq’s view of AI as the defining technology of this decade.
In September 2025, Shorooq, together with Presight, announced the launch of a US$100 million global AI fund. This fund is designed not only to provide financial support but also to offer portfolio companies unique strategic advantages.
Through Presight, a global leader in big data analytics powered by AI, startups will gain access to infrastructure and technical capabilities that can accelerate their growth. In addition, the UAE’s expanding role as a global technology hub provides market access and international scaling opportunities.
This fund is a milestone in Shorooq’s evolution, signaling its commitment to shaping the future of AI from the Middle East outward.
Leadership
Shorooq Partners is led by a team of experienced investors and operators who have built a reputation for being founder-friendly and conviction-driven in the MENA startup ecosystem. Presight, its partner in this fund, brings deep expertise in AI and data infrastructure. Together, the collaboration creates a strong foundation for supporting next-generation AI founders.
Investment Strategy
The strategy of the new fund is to back early-stage AI companies with transformative potential, leveraging Presight’s technical strengths and Shorooq’s founder-first philosophy. The approach is designed to give startups not just capital but also the tools, resources, and market pathways to compete globally. The fund aims to create a platform effect, combining infrastructure, expertise, and access.
Notable Investments
As this is a newly launched fund, no public portfolio companies have yet been announced. Shorooq’s broader track record, however, includes successful early investments across fintech, enterprise software, and consumer platforms in the MENA region.
Notable Exits
No exits have yet been reported for this new AI fund.
Other
This US$100 million AI platform is an important signal for founders that Shorooq is doubling down on emerging technologies and global ambitions. Startups should note that this fund represents both capital and operational support through access to Presight’s AI infrastructure.