Dubai: Middle East Startup Awards (MESA) 2022-23, the regional round of the Global Startup Awards, recognized and honored some of the most dynamic startups from eight countries in the Middle East. The event, which took place over the course of two days, was hosted by the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) and showcased innovation and tech-driven startups and entrepreneurs from the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon, and Jordan.
The Middle East Startup Awards, a prestigious platform, aims to acknowledge outstanding achievements in startup culture, entrepreneurship, and innovation across the region. The opening session of the event had the distinguished presence of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Kayed Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Economic Development, Ras Al Khaimah, as the Guest of Honour. Moreover, HE Mohamed Ali Musabbeh Al Nuaimi, Chairman, RAK Chamber of Commerce, attended the event as the chief guest for the Youth Innovation Challenge. Young minds used this opportunity to present their innovative projects to a panel of experts.
The event was held at the AURAK campus and brought together global and regional experts, investors, and industry leaders in a celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation. Keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking sessions were organized to provide valuable insights into launching, expanding, and scaling startups. Over ten universities participated in the event, with more than 300 attendees contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.
Dr. David A. Schmidt, President of AURAK, expressed his pride in hosting the Middle East Startup Awards. He highlighted AURAK’s commitment to providing a supportive ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs through its dynamic entrepreneurship center and student incubator. Dr. Schmidt emphasized the importance of universities in facilitating technology transfer and supporting the creation of spin-off companies.
The co-founder of Middle East Startup Awards, Sagarika Sahoo, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming success of the second edition of the awards. The event received over 3,500 nominations, leading to the selection of 135 finalists and 12 ultimate winners. Sahoo expressed optimism that the event would inspire more innovators to launch their startups and contribute to the national economy. She acknowledged the unparalleled support of the Ras Al Khaimah Government and AURAK in making the event a success.
The Middle East Startup Awards 2022-23 recognized exceptional startups across various categories. Some of the winners include Reachware from Saudi Arabia as Startup of the Year, Zabonex from Oman as Best Newcomer of the Year, and Ms. Altaf AlThekair from Kuwait as Founder of the Year. Other winners included Al Zarooni Emirates Investments (Best Family Office), Pioneer Investors (VC of the Year), Astro Labs LLC (Best Co-working Space), Misk Foundation Entrepreneurship (Best Accelerator/Incubator Program), Ion Microsystems (Best Green Tech Startup of the Year), Dudi Sports Technologies (Best Health Tech Startup of the Year), Paybybit Payment Services Provider Co. LLC (Best Web 3.0 and AI Startup of the Year), Ms. Seham Yateem (Diversity Role Model of the Year), and Paybybit Payment Services Provider Co. LLC (People’s Choice Award).
The Middle East Startup Awards is organized by Commerce Connect Events Exhibition & Management (CCEEM) as part of the Global Startup Awards. These awards recognize exceptional startup ideas from 12 regions across 120 countries, providing a platform for startups to gain recognition and support.
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is a leading institution of higher education and officially licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education. With its focus on an American-style education that integrates local culture, AURAK offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across three distinctive schools. The university’s campus in Ras Al Khaimah boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse student community.
The Middle East Startup Awards 2022-23 showcased the region’s thriving startup ecosystem and highlighted the potential for innovation and entrepreneurship. The event not only acknowledged outstanding accomplishments but also served as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators. With its vibrant atmosphere and valuable insights, the Middle East Startup Awards fostered collaboration and growth in the startup community.
