UAE-Based Startup Aims to Lead the Region’s AI Revolution
AqlanX, a UAE-born AI enterprise solutions provider, has raised $10 million in funding from Lakeba’s DoxAI, with support from the UAE’s NextGen FDI initiative. The funding will fuel AqlanX’s mission to expand Arabic-first enterprise automation tools across the Middle East.
Giuseppe Porcelli, Executive Chairman of Lakeba and DoxAI, summed it up best:
“This investment is more than just capital, it’s a shared commitment to transforming enterprise AI in the region.”
What this means for AqlanX
Backed by strategic capital and resources, AqlanX is now set to accelerate its goal of delivering cutting-edge enterprise automation with a strong focus on Arabic-language AI. The company plans to scale DoxAI’s intelligent document management and business automation tools throughout the Middle East.
Demetrio Russo, Founder & CEO of AqlanX, shared:
“With Lakeba and DoxAI by our side, we’re not just building world-class AI—we’re building it for the UAE. Our tech reflects the region’s identity, goals, and global ambitions.”
So, what is AqlanX and what does it do?
AqlanX is an enterprise AI company focusing on building Arabic-first AI products. Their solutions help large organizations:
- ✅ Automate repetitive business processes
- ✅ Streamline enterprise document workflows
- ✅ Improve operational efficiency using machine learning
The company aims to give enterprises in the region access to localized AI solutions that truly understand Arabic language, context, and culture, a major edge in an increasingly automated world.
Backed by NextGen FDI
This strategic funding was supported by the UAE’s NextGen FDI initiative, launched in 2022 to attract high-impact tech companies to the Emirates.
- ✅ AqlanX now joins 100+ firms brought in under the program
- ✅ Focus sectors include AI, robotics, renewables, and advanced manufacturing
- ✅ The initiative is a cornerstone of the UAE’s plan to diversify the economy and accelerate innovation
Building Talent Locally
In addition to scaling its tech, AqlanX has teamed up with the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) to launch an AI Centre of Excellence. This move is designed to:
- Develop homegrown AI talent
- Boost AI research in the region
- Create a sustainable pipeline of innovation
Why this funding matters
This investment isn’t just a win for AqlanX, it’s a big step forward for Arabic-language AI and the broader MENA tech ecosystem. By putting culture-first technology at the forefront, AqlanX is reshaping how enterprises in the Middle East adopt and scale digital transformation.