Abu Dhabi Attracts 27 Global Startups in Hub71 Cohort 18
Abu Dhabi’s innovation hub, Hub71, has announced the selection of 27 startups for its latest Access Programme, part of Cohort 18. This cohort attracted a record 2,453 applications from entrepreneurs across 112 countries, making it the most competitive round to date, with an acceptance rate of just 1.1%.
For the first time, all selected startups are headquartered outside the UAE, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a global destination for cutting-edge technology businesses. Collectively, these startups have raised nearly $230 million in funding, averaging $8.5 million per company, reflecting the increasing maturity and scale of participants.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, emphasized the significance of this cohort, stating that the startups bring technologies with strong market applications and scalable potential. He highlighted Hub71’s role in helping founders gain commercial traction, access capital, and expand from Abu Dhabi into global markets.
The startups have been selected to join either the sector-agnostic Access Programme or specialized ecosystems focusing on life sciences, digital assets, and climate technology. Seven startups joined the Hub71+ Life Sciences program, six joined Hub71+ Digital Assets, and five were accepted into Hub71+ ClimateTech.
Geographically, the selected companies hail from diverse regions including India, Kenya, Sweden, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Notable startups include EchoTwin AI from the US, which develops digital twin technology for municipal infrastructure monitoring; Wingbits from Sweden, specializing in real-time flight tracking; and UK-based Amilis, which leverages AI for reproductive health solutions. Indian startups such as Uravu Labs and Endimension Technology, as well as several Hong Kong companies that participated in Hub71’s Hong Kong Immersion Programme, were also highlighted.
Participants will engage in a 12-month program receiving up to AED 500,000 in support through a combination of in-kind benefits and funding. They will also gain access to a network of mentors, investors, regulators, and corporate partners, enabling them to accelerate growth and innovation.
With the addition of Cohort 18, Hub71’s ecosystem now hosts 525 startups, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s status as one of the fastest-growing technology and innovation hubs in the region.