Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, has welcomed its most AI-focused cohort to date, selecting 26 startups that together have raised more than $223m (Dhs818m), the largest funding total of any Hub71 intake.

Eighty-one percent of the new cohort are AI-driven companies addressing challenges in healthcare, finance, energy and ClimateTech, underlining Abu Dhabi’s growing role in global AI innovation. Most of the startups are seed-stage and come from 12 countries, including the US, UK, Singapore, France, Canada, Egypt and India.

The 17th cohort was chosen from more than 2,000 applications, with 74 per cent of startups headquartered outside the UAE, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a hub for international founders seeking capital, customers and growth opportunities.

Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, said: “The startups joining Cohort 17 reflect the ambition and calibre of founders we are welcoming into our community.

“Backed by strong funding and building technologies with broad market applications, they are pursuing growth globally. Their decision to build from Abu Dhabi highlights the strength of our ecosystem and its position as a global launchpad for innovation.”

Read: Hub71’s Ahmad Ali Alwan on steering Abu Dhabi’s tech ecosystem into a global scale-up phase

New entrants to Hub71

Among the new entrants is Harmonic Discovery, a US biotech company applying AI to design precision therapies for hard-to-treat diseases such as sickle cell, which has raised $8.5m.

India’s Planys Technologies, with $7.2m in funding, develops underwater robots and smart sensors for diver-free inspection.

Six startups are focused on environmental solutions, including Singapore-based SunGreenH2, which has secured $6.6m to develop high-efficiency electrolysers for green hydrogen production. Eight companies will develop blockchain and Web3 solutions, among them UAE-based Resolv Labs, which has raised $12.5m for its crypto investment platform.

Cohort 17 startups will access Hub71’s support programme, including up to Dhs500,000 in incentives and potential follow-on support Dhs1m for top performers.

The companies will also benefit from Hub71’s network of investors, talent and corporate partners, as well as Abu Dhabi’s specialist ecosystems such as Hub71+ AI, backed by AI71, Core42, Amazon Web Services and Google for Startups.

At a glance: Access Programme

The 26 startups selected to join Hub71’s Cohort 17 include:

• Banxx is an all-in-one app that connects banking and AI, helping users plan, optimise and manage their financial life seamlessly.
• eVoost AI is a real estate intelligence engine, guiding off-plan development decisions from planning through pricing.
• Harmonic Discovery applies AI to design precision therapies for difficult-to-treat diseases, with a lead focus on Sickle Cell Disease.
• HealthStay.io provides AI-driven software that helps healthcare providers qualify, convert and manage international patients through automated workflows.
• Monit delivers AI-powered IoT solutions for industrial asset monitoring, worker safety and operational efficiency.
• Orbii is a credit intelligence platform that enables lenders to build and scale SME lending with AI underwriting, real-time disbursement and collections.
• PayTic automates compliance and payment back-office tasks such as reconciliation, dispute handling and regulatory reporting, cutting costs and improving efficiency for banks and fintechs.
• Planys advances critical infrastructure inspection using marine robotics, underwater NDT and AI analytics, offering safer, unmanned solutions that reduce downtime.
• Professional.me is a talent intelligence system using micro-LLMs tailored to each employer and professional to support smarter hiring, upskilling and workforce planning.
• Reno simplifies home renovations by combining contractor selection, project management and financing in one platform.
• Ukama enables enterprises and communities to build their own cellular networks, extending internet access to remote areas.
• Wrtn Technologies offers consumer AI companions and character chat apps, while also providing AI agents that boost business productivity.
• ZenAdmin.ai is a full-stack IT platform that equips, manages and supports global teams, handling hardware lifecycle, security and access so employees can work without disruption.
• Lypid develops patented plant-based fats that mimic animal fat for use in dairy and baked goods, but with no cholesterol and less saturated fat.
• Mitico offers cost-effective carbon capture technology that reduces industrial emissions by more than 95 per cent.
• P1 Energy provides a modular synthetic fuel system, converting renewable methanol into drop-in fuels for today’s engines without modifications.
• Sager is an AI-powered digital twin platform using drones and geospatial data to monitor assets and optimise operations in real time.
• SNAPP produces compact aquatic drones, scalable in swarms, to monitor ocean habitats with AI support.
• SolarisKit designs flat-packed solar thermal collectors made in the UAE, offering quick-install, low-maintenance clean heat for hot climates.
• Hearst operates a cryptocurrency mining service focused on sustainability and institutional-grade reliability.
• HIFI is a US-based fintech that provides programmable money infrastructure, enabling stablecoin integration for businesses and institutions to move money globally.
• MANSA builds stablecoin-powered infrastructure that allows payment providers to deliver instant global settlements.
• Merkle Science is an AI-powered blockchain analytics firm, backed by $27M in funding, helping governments, banks and crypto firms detect illicit activity and manage compliance.
• Plume is a leading RWAfi chain with over $400m in RWA TVL, more than 200 projects, and over $30m raised from top investors. It is the number one chain for RWA holders, supporting the launch and growth of real-world asset projects.
• Predicate enables regulated rails for on-chain financial products by separating policy logic and enforcement from smart contracts.
• Resolv provides investment infrastructure that delivers crypto-sourced yields in a stablecoin format.

Majid Al Futtaim, the Middle East’s largest mall operator, reported a 23 per cent jump in H1 net profit excluding valuation and tax, lifted by strong demand for its residential projects and growth in its digital retail arm.

The Dubai-based group posted revenue of Dhs17.3bn ($4.7bn) for the six months to June 30, up 3 per cent year-on-year, while EBITDA rose 9 per cent to Dhs2.3bn.

Net profit excluding valuation and tax increased to Dhs1.3bn from Dhs1bn a year earlier.

The company said its properties business, covering malls and residential developments, delivered a 14 per cent rise in net revenue, while its digital retail unit posted 23 per cent growth, offsetting weaker sales in its brick-and-mortar operations.

Lifestyle revenues rose 15 per cent, while entertainment revenue climbed 11 per cent, driven by VOX Cinemas.

Majid Al Futtaim opened 42 new stores across its portfolio in the period, while free cash flow reached Dhs1.1bn and net debt was reduced to Dhs13.4bn.

Fadel Abdulbaqi Al Ali, chairman of the Board, said: “Majid Al Futtaim’s first half financial performance highlights both the strength of its strategic direction and the group’s commitment to delivering long-term value creation for all stakeholders.”

The group is investing Dhs5bn in expanding its flagship Mall of the Emirates and has also rolled out new luxury brands in Saudi Arabia as part of its lifestyle expansion.

CEO Ahmed Galal Ismail said the results reflected “steady progress on strategic investments and transformation across our core sectors”, highlighting growth in Carrefour Now, the group’s quick-commerce platform, and Precision Media, its AI-enabled advertising business.

Majid Al Futtaim: Key H1 highlights

• H1 2025 revenue up 3 per cent to Dhs17.3bn, EBITDA up 9 per cent to Dhs2.3bn

• Net profit excluding valuation and tax up 23 per cent to AED 1.3 billion

• Properties revenue up 14 per cent, digital retail revenue up 23 per cent, lifestyle up 15 per cent, entertainment up 11 per cent

• 42 new stores opened across retail and lifestyle businesses

• Free cash flow at Dhs1.1bn, net debt reduced to Dhs13.4bn

• Dhs5bn Mall of the Emirates investment launched, Saudi luxury retail expansion underway

Dubai’s DP World has signed a strategic partnership with Atlantis Dubai Resorts to manage logistics operations for its flagship properties, Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, the companies.

Under the agreement, DP World will handle daily, on-demand deliveries of perishables, dry goods and speciality products, managing nearly 7,000 pallets through its network. The solution includes temperature-controlled facilities, inventory management and real-time cargo tracking.

Atlantis Dubai runs a supply chain of more than 60,000 products sourced from about 70 countries, covering gourmet ingredients, merchandise and essential provisions to serve thousands of guests each day.

“Hospitality supply chains are uniquely complex, especially in the luxury segment where standards and expectations are exceptionally high,” said Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and managing director of DP World GCC.

DP World-Atlantis Dubai deal to boost operational efficiency

Paul Baker, president of Atlantis at Kerzner International, said the deal would strengthen operational efficiency while supporting the resorts’ long-term regional growth plans.

The partnership initially covers inbound flows and storage, with potential expansion into procurement and broader supply chain solutions.

DP World, which has been extending its presence in the hospitality sector, said the agreement highlights its ability to design tailored logistics solutions for complex operating environments.

Read: DP World invests $2.5bn in logistics, creating 5,000 jobs in 2025

Under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the Knowledge Fund Establishment (KFE) has announced the successful completion of Phase One of the major expansion at Dubai Schools – Nad Al Sheba.

The ambitious expansion initiative, driven by Dubai’s visionary leadership, is part of a broader strategy to reinforce the city’s status as a global hub for high-quality education. It directly supports the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, a comprehensive policy framework aimed at elevating the overall quality of life in the emirate, including education, healthcare, housing, and community development.

Read more-Dubai private schools receive nod for fee hike for new academic year

The Dubai Schools expansion project is rooted in the goals of the Education 33 Strategy (E33), which is designed to future-proof the emirate’s educational system by enhancing capacity, introducing international best practices, and supporting the development of holistic student experiences, a Dubai Media Office report said.

In January 2024, Sheikh Hamdan approved a comprehensive plan to increase capacity across Dubai Schools, backed by an investment of Dhs530m. This move reflects the leadership’s commitment to nurturing a talented generation capable of driving Dubai’s growth in a rapidly evolving global economy.

As part of this vision, the Nad Al Sheba campus expansion represents a cornerstone in a broader developmental strategy that is not only scaling infrastructure but also reimagining the way education is delivered in the emirate.

Phase One completed: More classrooms, more opportunities

Phase One of the project, completed ahead of the 2025–2026 academic year, has delivered 31 new classrooms with the capacity to accommodate 777 students. This significant enhancement will immediately relieve capacity pressure while improving access for families across the city seeking high-quality, values-driven education.

The project will enter Phase Two in the coming months, with completion scheduled for July 2026. Upon completion, the total capacity of the campus will rise to 2,664 students, with the addition of 114 new classrooms, 31 state-of-the-art laboratories, and specialised halls. This expansion directly responds to the city’s growing population and aligns with the city’s broader infrastructure and human capital strategies.

The Dubai Schools – Nad Al Sheba campus is not solely about academics, it’s built on a holistic model that integrates academic, physical, emotional, and social development.

The expanded campus will include a wide range of integrated athletic facilities such as a semi-Olympic indoor swimming pool, an international-standard football pitch, an indoor sports hall, a fitness gym, and multi-purpose outdoor courts. These features support the physical well-being of students while also promoting teamwork, discipline, and healthy lifestyles, critical components of lifelong success.

Leaders speak: Unified vision, strategic execution

A host of high-level officials spoke about the significance of the expansion and how it reflects Dubai’s coordinated, future-focused governance.

Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai and Chairman of the Steering Committee of Dubai Schools, said:

“Dubai is committed to building an inclusive and innovative education ecosystem that unlocks potential, nurtures talent and continuously evolves. Guided by the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the directives of Sheikh Hamdan, we continue to work collaboratively to enrich the education system and keep pace with the highest international standards, positioning Dubai among the world’s top 10 cities for education quality, in line with the Dubai Social Agenda 33.”

He added that the Dubai Schools project, personally overseen by Sheikh Hamdan, is a strategic investment in students and the city’s long-term development, emphasising both technological innovation and a deep-rooted connection to Emirati values.

Institutional collaboration at its core

Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of Dubai Finance and member of the Dubai Schools Steering Committee, praised the milestone:

“The completion of the first phase of the expansion project at the Dubai Schools Nad Al Sheba branch represents an important step towards implementing the directives of the wise leadership to develop a world-class educational system in the emirate.”

He added that a collaborative approach across government and private sectors ensures the education sector evolves cohesively and in alignment with Dubai’s aspirations.

Aisha Miran, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), emphasised that the expansion reflects Sheikh Hamdan’s commitment to empowering all students:

“It demonstrates commitment to providing an inspiring and supportive learning environment that meets the diverse needs and aspirations of our students, while equipping them with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a globally competitive education system.”

Technical oversight, national talent

Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, underlined the technical rigour involved in the expansion process:

“Dubai continues to build a comprehensive educational model of global standing. Dubai Municipality is closely monitoring all stages of the project to ensure its timely completion. A dedicated supervisory team of Emirati professionals has been appointed to oversee technical and construction aspects.”

This hands-on oversight is a testament to Dubai’s commitment to delivering best-in-class infrastructure that meets rigorous standards while maximising value from public investment.

Ahmad AbdulKarim Julfar, Chairman of the Knowledge Fund Establishment and Member of the Dubai Schools Steering Committee, stated:

“The expansion of the Nad Al Sheba campus aligns with our strategic vision to advance educational infrastructure in the emirate. We remain committed to providing a comprehensive educational environment that meets the needs of future generations.”

Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, CEO of the KFE, added:

“The expansion represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to develop and enhance Dubai Schools’ facilities. We are committed to delivering this project to the highest standards, providing comprehensive educational and athletic amenities that support holistic education and foster students’ academic and physical development.”

Scaling a unique educational model

The Dubai Schools initiative offers a distinctive Emirati model that integrates global educational standards with a strong national identity. The curriculum emphasizes Arabic language, modern sciences, technology, and values-based learning, creating well-rounded graduates ready to contribute to both local and global arenas.

The expansion at Nad Al Sheba complements similar efforts across the city. Recent milestones include:

• A new campus in Al Khawaneej and expansion at Al Barsha
• A Dhs14m contribution from Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, formalized in an MoU with KFE
• A renewed Dhs11m support from Dubai Islamic Bank for 2025–26

These partnerships reflect a robust public-private synergy, vital to meeting Dubai’s ambitious education goals.

The Knowledge Fund Establishment has already facilitated the allocation of 1.5 million square feet for new educational institutions across Dubai. With over 15,000 seats planned by 2033 across the Nad Al Sheba, Al Barsha, and Al Khawaneej campuses, Dubai is not just building more schools, it’s creating an ecosystem of opportunity.

Student satisfaction rates, which have reached 93.75 per cent, indicate that the city’s approach is working, and that families recognize the value and vision behind the Dubai Schools brand.

The UAE National Team delivered an impressive performance at the inaugural Asian Mixed Martial Arts (AMMA) Youth Championship, held at Khalifa Sports City in Bahrain from August 29 to 30 under the supervision of the Asian MMA Association.

Despite competing with just five athletes, the UAE secured four medals — one gold, two silver, and one bronze — finishing fourth in the overall national team rankings. The event, which marked the first continental youth championship for the sport, underscored the rapid rise of combat sports across Asia and offered athletes key preparation ahead of the Asian Youth Games in October.

Leading the UAE’s medal tally was Omar Alraeesi, who claimed gold in the under-18 Traditional MMA men’s -60kg division. Abdulla Aldarmaki and Omar Almarzooqi added silver medals in the under-18 Modern MMA men’s -50kg and under-18 Traditional MMA men’s -65kg categories respectively, while Ahmad Abdulraheem earned bronze in the under-18 Modern MMA men’s -65kg division.

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Mohammed Al Hosani, a member of the MMA Committee of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, commended the team’s performance. “This is a proud moment for the UAE and a testament to the hard work of our young athletes. Their performance in the tournament reflects the growth of mixed martial arts in our country and strengthens our commitment to developing the sport at the grassroots level and to developing talent across age groups. We see this as an important step towards preparing our athletes for bigger continental and global stages,” he said.

He added: “The team’s success at the AMMA Youth Championship motivates us to exert maximum efforts for upcoming continental competitions and enhances our chances of reaching the podium at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain.”

Gold medallist Omar Alraeesi reflected on the achievement: “Participating in the first Asian Youth Championship and reaching the podium reflects the importance of the achievement and the great efforts made by the players in the face of strong competition. I dedicate this gold medal to our beloved country, its leadership and people, and I look forward to representing the UAE again in the Asian Youth Games.”