Early-stage venture capital firm Arāya Ventures is accelerating its expansion into the GCC region through a strategy focused on new on-the-ground leadership, locally anchored investment platforms, and a practical investor education initiative. The firm stated a sustained commitment to investing in Saudi Arabia, where it aims to support early-stage innovation and attract global capital.
The expansion includes the appointment of a new head of GCC and the rollout of the Araya Investment Academy across the region.
A three-pronged strategy for regional growth
To lead its regional operations, Arāya Ventures appointed Omar Khan as its new head of GCC. Khan brings nearly two decades of business leadership experience in the region and will focus on capital raising, building partnerships, and expanding the firm’s presence.
The firm’s investment strategy will concentrate on helping Saudi startups build AI-native companies. The support offered to these startups includes hands-on technical guidance, access to global research and corporate networks, and the integration of generative AI and machine learning tailored to the Kingdom’s priority sectors.
The third pillar of the expansion is the Araya Investment Academy, which is being scaled up in the GCC following an inaugural course held in Riyadh earlier this year. The academy provides a practical curriculum designed to equip senior executives, operators, and aspiring investors to participate in early-stage investing. The next in-region programme is scheduled for Dubai on 30 October 2025, with further rollouts planned for Riyadh.
A focus on AI and fintech in line with regional priorities
Arāya Ventures, which is backed by investors including the British Business Bank, focuses on AI-driven and disruptive innovation across health, fintech, commerce, and the future of work, with more than half of its portfolio companies being AI-driven.
“The GCC is one of the most exciting frontiers for innovation,” said Rupa Popat, founder and managing partner of Arāya Ventures. “Our approach is simple and focused. We back exceptional founders, bring deep networks and expertise, and partner locally to attract global capital. Our commitment is long term, and we will bridge stakeholders, strengthen founder support and build the trust required to scale enduring companies from the GCC to the world.”
Mitul Ruparelia, general partner of the global fund at Arāya Ventures, added: “We are doubling down on AI, FinTech and frontier technologies that align with regional priorities. By combining locally anchored platforms with our global operating experience, we can help founders build AI-native, globally competitive companies from day one.”
