UAE | Page 6

As global headlines distort the reality on the ground, startups across the Middle East are facing a new challenge: perception. While ecosystems remain active and resilient, shifting investor sentiment is quietly reshaping capital flows, forcing founders to adapt to a more disciplined and selective funding environment.

In a more volatile global environment, the question facing financial leaders is shifting. It is no longer simply about how fast a product can scale or how cheaply it can be distributed. It now depends on the system’s ability to remain reliable under pressure.

Presight is investing in six AI startups under its AI Innovation Ecosystem to advance next-generation intelligent systems worldwide.

"Everything around us has evolved except the tools we rely on to protect ourselves in an emergency. That felt like a problem worth solving.”

“The regional escalations made World Monitor visible, not useful,” says the CEO behind Anghami, the MENA region’s first Nasdaq-listed music streaming platform, who is now helping millions understand major global developments in real time.

Data from Bayut and dubizzle shows how the UAE’s digital marketplace quickly rebounded after a short slowdown, with buyer engagement, listings and inquiries across multiple sectors recovering within days.

Despite regional uncertainties, Dubai’s design community continues to adapt with resilience, keeping projects moving while adjusting to a changing environment.

Women across the Middle East are stepping confidently into senior leadership roles, bringing fresh perspectives and resilience. The next step for organizations is to strengthen the systems that will sustain this momentum and unlock their full potential.

On Paradigm, Finvasia Group Co-Founder and CEO Tajinder Virk shares why long-term investing, disciplined leadership, and building real value still matter in today’s fast-moving financial world.

“Dubai allows ambitious ideas to take shape quickly. You can bring together investors, creatives, and innovators and start building at scale almost immediately.”

Yango Tech CEO Vladimir Razuvaev explains why entrepreneurs are built for uncertain times—and why the best founders stay focused on building products that solve real problems.

When the mind begins to spiral into worry about what might happen next, small actions can help the nervous system return to a calmer state. These practices may seem simple, but they can make a meaningful difference, especially to help ground ourselves in the present moment to help the nervous system settle.

Ziina’s platform allows merchants to accept payments in several ways, including payment links, QR code payments, Tap to Pay, card acceptance, and bank transfers.

Representatives of participating Business Groups and Councils expressed confidence in the resilience of Dubai’s economy.

ROJA London has carved a rare position in the fragrance industry by blending British craftsmanship, rare ingredients, and artistic storytelling to define the world of ultra-luxury perfumery.

The private event saw 300 leaders from across the emirate’s business sector convene, as well as the attendance of UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation H.E. Reem Al Hashimy

Shorooq joined a global group of investors backing Yann LeCun’s Paris-based AI startup AMI Labs in a US$1.03 billion seed round aimed at developing next-generation “world model” artificial intelligence.

EAK Digital’s influence extends beyond PR, marketing, and events, and into the industry’s most trusted key opinion leaders (KOLs) network forged through a decade of in-person relationship building. Korhaliller first collaborated with now well-known Web3 voices such as Lark Davis, EllioTrades and Crypto Banter in 2019, long before they became mainstream crypto influencers.

Magure noted that the certifications align with the UAE’s broader push toward responsible and secure AI adoption, including the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, DIFC’s Data Protection and AI-related regulatory guidance, Dubai Electronic Security Centre’s AI Security Policy, and the Abu Dhabi Government’s Digital Strategy.

Karma Developers approaches real estate with a focus on people, communities, and long-term impact. Beyond construction, the company engages in social initiatives, sustainability efforts, and partnerships that reflect its commitment to responsible development.

Continued gym attendance across Dubai reflects strong public confidence in the UAE’s crisis management and the institutions guiding the response.