Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, announced the onboarding of its most AI-intensive cohort to date. A total of 26 high-growth AI startups have joined its 17th Cohort.

Together, these startups have raised over USD 223 million (AED 818 million), marking the largest funding total of any Hub71 cohort. The record figure highlights investor confidence in Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for advanced technologies.

More than 80% of the startups are developing AI-driven solutions for HealthTech, FinTech, and ClimateTech. This move supports Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification and reflects the emirate’s growing influence in the global AI landscape. The launch of Hub71+ AI, backed by AI71, Core42, Amazon Web Services, and Google for Startups, further strengthens the ecosystem.

Cohort 17 was chosen from over 2,000 applications across 12 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Singapore, France, Canada, Egypt, and India. Reports revealed that 74% of the selected startups are headquartered outside the UAE, reinforcing Abu Dhabi as a preferred hub for international founders seeking growth, funding, and market access.

Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, said the selected startups reflect strong ambition and global potential. He added their decision to scale from Abu Dhabi highlights the strength of the ecosystem as a global launchpad for innovation.

Notable companies include Harmonic Discovery, a US BioTech firm using AI to design precision therapies for diseases like sickle cell, with USD 8.5 million (AED 31.2 million) in funding. Another is India’s Planys Technologies, which develops autonomous underwater robots and sensors, backed by USD 7.2 million (AED 26.4 million).

• Six startups will scale ClimateTech solutions through Hub71+ ClimateTech.
• Eight startups will advance blockchain and Web3 solutions via Hub71+ Digital Assets.

Examples include Singapore-based SunGreenH2, developing high-efficiency electrolysers for green hydrogen, with USD 6.6 million (AED 24.2 million) raised, and UAE-based Resolv Labs, a crypto investment platform with USD 12.5 million (AED 46 million) in funding.

Startups will benefit from Hub71’s Access programme, which provides up to AED 500,000 in support, with top performers eligible for AED 1 million after one year. They will also gain access to Abu Dhabi’s market, investor networks, and talent pool to accelerate scaling.

This latest cohort confirms Hub71’s rising global appeal and Abu Dhabi’s growing role in shaping AI-powered industries.

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