An Exit That Redefines Regional Innovation
When Pinewood.AI announced its acquisition of Seez for $46.2 million, it wasn’t just a win for the founders—it was a defining moment for GCC-born tech startups proving they can scale globally and exit to industry leaders. For Nuwa Capital, Seez also marked its first portfolio exit, making the milestone even more significant.
The journey to this moment was anything but smooth. Seez, founded in 2016 by Tarek and Andrew Kabrit, started with an ambitious vision: leveraging AI to revolutionize automotive retail. Over the years, the company navigated market shifts, industry downturns, and economic uncertainties—all while continuously innovating.
For investors like Sarah Abu Rasheh and Khaled Talhouni, who had a front-row seat in Seez’s evolution, this exit is more than a financial success. It’s a testament to the grit, adaptability, and sheer perseverance of the founders and their team.
Betting on a Visionary Founder
“I’ve known Tarek for almost a decade,” recalls Khaled Talhouni. “Even back when we first backed him, there was never a doubt—he had the rare mix of vision and relentless execution that defines great founders.”
Seez’s journey wasn’t a straight path to success. Initially riding the wave of online automotive retail, it expanded rapidly. But by 2022, the industry took a hit, and many companies, including Seez, found themselves in a vulnerable position.
Yet, what set Seez apart was its ability to pivot.
“Despite all the challenges, the team didn’t just survive—they adapted, rebuilt their technology, and emerged stronger. Through difficult times, not a single person walked away,” Khaled notes. “That unwavering loyalty was incredible to witness.”
Scaling Against the Odds
By 2023, Seez had not only survived but quadrupled its ARR, expanded into the US, UK, and Europe, and built AI-driven solutions that captured the attention of global players. Soon, offers started pouring in—a clear validation of Seez’s transformation into a category leader.
For Sarah Abu Rasheh, who led Nuwa’s investment, Seez’s story reflects the brutal yet rewarding reality of startups.
“Behind the glamour of startups, there’s an unforgiving reality that often gets overlooked. Founders like Tarek and Andrew face incredible pressures—and the ability to push through is what separates the great from the rest,” she shares.
Her colleague, Nitin Reen, played a crucial role when Seez faced turbulence, ensuring the company had the support it needed. Arnav Danthi was also instrumental in Nuwa’s second investment, reinforcing their confidence in Seez’s ability to turn things around.
A Defining Moment for MENA Startups
This exit isn’t just about Seez—it’s about what it represents for regional innovation.
“We’ve seen exits in the region dominated by M&As, with IPOs slowly picking up. But this is different,” says Khaled. “This is a GCC-born company, backed early, scaled globally, and acquired by an industry leader. It proves that world-class businesses aren’t just coming to the region—they’re being built here.”
As for Tarek, this is just another chapter.
“The future of automotive retail is intelligent, autonomous, and data-driven,” he said following the acquisition. “With Pinewood.AI, we’re about to redefine how technology empowers dealerships worldwide.”
A Well-Deserved Celebration
For everyone involved—the founders, the investors, the team—this exit is a testament to perseverance, belief, and the power of innovation.
“It was a happy little coincidence that Seez became Nuwa’s first exit on the exact day we founded the firm,” Khaled reflects. “Rarely has serendipity struck so clearly.”
