New UAE Tech Incubator SOUL Launches In Umm Al Quwain

The Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) has launched SOUL (Startup One UAQ Launchpad) as an incubator focused on supporting tech-driven startups in the UAE.

As a platform for local and international entrepreneurs to develop and scale their businesses within the UAE and the GCC, SOUL shall offer support to startups in key technology sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, fintech, edtech, proptech, regtech, and robotics.  

The incubator will support businesses by providing them with guidance from experienced mentors, access to markets, minimum viable product (MVP) validation, and potential funding connections.  

SOUL's launch ceremony was attended by HE Sheikh Khalid bin Rashid Al Mualla, chairman of UAQ FTZ, and HE Sheikh Mansoor Bin Ibrahim Al Mu'alla, executive director of UAQ FTZ. 

In a statement, Johnson M. George, general manager of UAQ FTZ, said, “SOUL’s objective is to create an innovation hub that nurtures startups in their journey to becoming key players in the UAE and GCC markets. Our programs are structured to provide startups with the resources and guidance they need to navigate challenges, validate their models, and accelerate growth.”  

SOUL provides startups with workspace, mentorship, and direct connections to investors, along with access to new markets. Through workshops, networking events, and pitch days, startups receive support to develop their products and grow their businesses. 

Dr. Hisham Safadi, founder of detail ecosystem platform UDENZ and a mentor at SOUL, commented, "SOUL is different from other incubation programs because it offers targeted support to startups that already have an MVP or are seeking to validate their business models. This level of mentorship is invaluable for startups looking to scale quickly."