Dubai Startup Scene: Live Updates — March 2026
Real-time coverage of Dubai's startup ecosystem — funding rounds, product launches, market moves, and breaking business news as it happens.
Tabby Raises $160M Series D, Valuation Crosses $1.5B
Dubai-headquartered buy-now-pay-later giant Tabby has closed a $160 million Series D funding round led by Wellington Management, with participation from STV and existing investors.
The round values Tabby at approximately $1.5 billion, making it one of the highest-valued consumer fintech companies in the MENA region. The company says it will use the funds to accelerate its Saudi expansion and launch a new SME lending product.
Careem's New Fintech Vertical Targets UAE Gig Workers
Careem has quietly launched a embedded financial services product aimed at its 300,000+ gig workers in the UAE, offering instant payouts, micro-credit, and digital wallets directly within the driver app.
Sources close to the company say the product will expand to Saudi Arabia and Egypt by Q3 2026, positioning Careem as a full-stack fintech platform rather than just a ride-hailing app.
GITEX Startup Track Applications Now Open for 2026
GITEX Global has opened applications for its 2026 Startup Track, offering early-stage companies access to investors, corporate partners, and a dedicated exhibition zone in Hall 4.
Startups from MENA, South Asia, and Africa are eligible. The deadline for applications is April 30, 2026. Over 5,000 startups applied in 2025.
Dubai Future Foundation Launches AI Startup Incubator
The Dubai Future Foundation has announced a new 6-month AI incubator programme targeting early-stage startups building infrastructure for government services, healthcare, and smart city applications.
Selected startups will receive AED 500,000 in funding, office space at Museum of the Future, and direct access to government procurement pipelines. Applications open March 15.
Good Morning from Dubai Startups Daily 🌅
Welcome to our live coverage of Dubai's startup scene for March 3, 2026. We'll be tracking funding announcements, product launches, regulatory updates, and market moves throughout the day.
Bookmark this page and refresh for the latest. Got a tip? Submit it here.