Investor forum: Secrets of spotting winning startups in the Middle East

In a strategic move to bridge the financing gap for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the Arab world, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, through its SME financing arm, Badir Fund, is investing in Shorooq’s Nahda Fund II, a Qualified Investor Fund registered with the FSRA ADGM.

What made Nawy stand out to us wasn’t just the traction—it was the vision. Most proptechs stop at search. Nawy went further: financing, closing, managing, and monetizing properties. In doing so, they turned a traditionally static experience into a seamless digital funnel.

Startups across the Middle East are increasingly turning to private credit as a flexible alternative to traditional bank loans and public debt markets, drawn by its speed, confidentiality, and tailored terms. Unlike conventional financing, private credit allows direct negotiations between lenders and borrowers, enabling founders to structure deals that align more closely with their growth trajectories and capital needs.