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HALA Ventures, established in 2018 and based in Saudi Arabia, focuses on alternative investments with a primary emphasis on venture capital. Originally founded as a Corporate Fund under Financial Horizon Group in 2014, HALA Ventures has evolved into HALA Capital, expanding its investment strategy to include private equity and private credit. This transformation positions HALA as a leading alternative asset manager in Saudi Arabia.
The firm has a significant portfolio value exceeding SAR 4 billion as of 2025, with multiple companies achieving valuation milestones of over 15 times their initial investment. HALA Ventures is backed by notable limited partners, including JADA, the Saudi government fund of funds, which enhances its institutional credibility.
HALA Ventures operates primarily in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, targeting innovative startups that demonstrate potential for global scalability. The firm’s headquarters in Saudi Arabia serves as a strategic base for its investment activities.
HALA Ventures invests in early and growth-stage, capital-efficient, technology-based businesses primarily within the MENA region. The firm targets sectors such as fintech, consumer technology, edtech, food-agtech, logistics, AI, media, travel, and commerce. Investment stages include pre-seed, seed, and growth equity, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $500,000.
The firm emphasizes identifying startups that are not only innovative but also capable of achieving significant market penetration. HALA Ventures seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a strong vision and the ability to execute their business plans effectively. The firm’s investment strategy is designed to support companies that are poised for rapid growth and scalability, leveraging technology to address market needs.
HALA Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of notable companies across various sectors. Key portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects HALA Ventures' commitment to supporting innovative startups that leverage technology to create impactful solutions in their respective markets.
Ali Ahmed Abussaud: Founding Managing Partner with expertise in venture capital and investment management. He has a strong background in supporting startups and driving growth in the MENA region.
Hussain Almarhoon: Founding Managing Partner specializing in alternative investments. He brings extensive experience in identifying and nurturing high-potential startups.
Qussay K. Abussaud: Chief Operating Officer with a focus on operational excellence and strategic execution. His background includes significant experience in managing investment portfolios and supporting startup growth.
To pitch HALA Ventures, founders should visit their Get Funded page for detailed instructions. A concise pitch deck is essential, highlighting the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. HALA Ventures prefers warm introductions but will consider direct applications through their website.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. It is advisable to follow up if no response is received after this period.
In October 2025, HALA Ventures officially rebranded as HALA Capital and received a Capital Market Authority (CMA) license, marking a significant transformation from a venture capital-only firm to a comprehensive private capital platform. This rebranding allows HALA to expand its investment strategy to include private equity and private credit.
As of 2025, HALA Ventures has achieved a portfolio value exceeding SAR 4 billion, with several companies reaching valuation milestones of over 15 times their initial investment. The firm continues to focus on supporting innovative startups across the MENA region.
What are HALA Ventures' investment criteria?
HALA Ventures focuses on early and growth-stage startups that are capital-efficient and technology-driven. The firm primarily invests in sectors such as fintech, edtech, healthcare, and logistics within the MENA region.
How can I pitch to HALA Ventures?
Founders interested in pitching to HALA Ventures can visit their Get Funded page for more information on the application process. A well-prepared pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team is essential.
What makes HALA Ventures different from other VCs?
HALA Ventures distinguishes itself by its deep understanding of the MENA market and its focus on capital-efficient startups. The firm provides strategic guidance and access to a broad network of industry contacts to help portfolio companies scale effectively.
What is the geographic scope of HALA Ventures?
HALA Ventures primarily invests in the MENA region, with a strong emphasis on Saudi Arabia. The firm aims to support startups that have the potential for regional and global expansion.
What is the typical check size for investments?
HALA Ventures typically invests between $100,000 and $500,000 in early-stage startups. The firm may also engage in larger investments through its private equity arm for growth-stage companies.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
HALA Ventures provides its portfolio companies with strategic guidance, operational support, and access to a wide network of industry contacts. The firm is actively involved in helping startups scale their operations and achieve their growth objectives.
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