UAE telecom operator du has announced the launch of du Ventures, a $50 million corporate venture fund designed to support high-growth startups across fintech, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.
Managed by regional investment firm Shorooq, the fund represents du’s entry into the corporate venture capital space and reflects the company’s broader commitment to supporting innovation within the UAE’s digital economy.
The launch of du Ventures comes at a time when the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a regional hub for technology entrepreneurship, venture capital investment, and digital transformation. While the fund will invest across several technology verticals, fintech remains one of its primary focus areas, particularly in segments such as payments infrastructure, loyalty platforms, embedded financial services, and enterprise financial solutions.
Unlike traditional venture capital programmes, du Ventures aims to provide startups with more than funding by offering access to du’s infrastructure, customer base, commercial partnerships, and enterprise ecosystem.
How the du Ventures Fund Will Operate
The fund has been structured to identify and support startups that have moved beyond the idea stage and are developing solutions with strong commercial potential.
Investment Focus Areas
| Sector | Key Areas of Interest |
|---|---|
| Fintech | Payments, embedded finance, loyalty platforms, and financial infrastructure |
| Artificial Intelligence | Enterprise AI, automation, analytics, productivity solutions |
| Cybersecurity | Threat management, enterprise security, digital identity |
| Enterprise Technology | Business software, digital transformation platforms |
| Digital Infrastructure | Connectivity, cloud services, data platforms |
A significant portion of the fund is expected to be deployed within the UAE startup ecosystem, supporting the country’s broader innovation and entrepreneurship objectives.
By focusing on startups with market-ready solutions, du Ventures intends to accelerate commercialisation rather than concentrating solely on early-stage experimentation.
Shorooq’s Role to Lead Fund Management and Investment Strategy
The fund will be managed by Shorooq, one of the region’s most active multi-strategy investment firms.
Shorooq has built a strong presence across venture capital, credit, and technology investments, supporting companies across fintech, logistics, SaaS, mobility, and digital infrastructure.
Role of Shorooq in du Ventures
| Responsibility | Description |
| Deal Sourcing | Identifying high-potential startups |
| Due Diligence | Evaluating commercial and operational viability |
| Portfolio Management | Supporting startup growth and performance |
| Strategic Alignment | Ensuring investments support du’s long-term priorities |
| Ecosystem Development | Building partnerships and collaboration opportunities |
The partnership combines Shorooq’s investment expertise with du’s corporate scale and market reach.
What This Means for UAE Fintech
The fintech sector is expected to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of the new fund.
Increased Access to Growth Capital
Many fintech companies face challenges securing strategic capital that also delivers commercial partnerships. The fund helps address both needs simultaneously.
Stronger Corporate-Startup Collaboration
The launch reflects a growing trend where large corporations work directly with startups to accelerate innovation and improve service delivery.
Faster Commercial Adoption
By leveraging du’s enterprise network, fintech startups may gain quicker access to potential customers, helping reduce sales cycles and accelerate growth.
Support for National Innovation Goals
The initiative aligns with broader UAE strategies focused on digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and the development of a knowledge-based economy.
UAE Venture Capital Activity Continues to Grow
The launch of du Ventures comes amid increasing investment activity across the UAE startup ecosystem.
Factors Driving Venture Growth
| Growth Driver | Impact |
| Government Innovation Initiatives | Supporting entrepreneurship and technology adoption |
| Strong Digital Infrastructure | Enabling startup scalability |
| Increasing AI Adoption | Creating new business opportunities |
| Growing Fintech Ecosystem | Expanding demand for financial innovation |
| Corporate Participation | Providing strategic support alongside funding |
The UAE continues to attract founders, investors, and technology companies seeking access to one of the region’s most dynamic innovation environments.
About du
du is one of the UAE’s leading telecommunications and digital services providers, delivering mobile, fixed-line, broadband, ICT, cloud, and enterprise solutions to consumers and businesses. Since its launch in 2007, the company has played a key role in supporting the UAE’s digital transformation agenda through investments in connectivity, technology infrastructure, and innovation. Today, du serves millions of customers across the country and continues to expand its presence in emerging technology sectors.
About Shorooq
Shorooq is a leading multi-strategy investment firm operating across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. The firm invests across venture capital, private credit, and technology-focused opportunities, supporting startups and growth-stage companies in sectors including fintech, SaaS, logistics, mobility, and digital infrastructure. Shorooq has backed several prominent regional technology companies and plays an active role in developing the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Conclusion
du Ventures aims to help fintech, AI, and cybersecurity startups accelerate growth and commercial adoption by combining capital, strategic infrastructure, and enterprise access. As corporate venture capital becomes increasingly important in the region, the initiative could create new opportunities for founders while strengthening the UAE’s position as a leading technology and startup hub.
