Big news from Saudi Arabia! Nama Ventures Capital Co. has officially received the Capital Market Authority (CMA) license to operate as a fully regulated venture capital (VC) firm in the Kingdom. This major milestone cements the firm’s long-term commitment to Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing startup and investment ecosystem.
A First-of-Its-Kind Move
Co-founded by Mohammed Alzubi and chaired by HRH Sultan Bin Fahad Bin Salman Al Saud, Nama Ventures becomes one of the first foreign VC firms to earn full regulatory approval under Saudi capital markets law. Originally registered in the Cayman Islands, the firm has now shifted its regulatory base to Saudi Arabia, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy to boost entrepreneurship, innovation, and global investment appeal.
What This Means for Nama Ventures
With the new CMA license, Nama Ventures is now empowered to:
- ✔️ Launch flagship VC funds
- ✔️ Offer Shariah-compliant investment vehicles
- ✔️ Target high-growth startups in Saudi Arabia, the MENA region, and global markets
- ✔️ Deepen partnerships with institutional and sovereign investors
This regulatory approval marks the final step in a process that officially allows Nama to begin investment management operations on Saudi soil.
Leadership Speaks
“Nama Ventures’ licensing milestone is a reflection of the profound transformation happening under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,” said HRH Sultan Bin Fahad Bin Salman Al Saud. “Vision 2030 is turning Saudi Arabia into a global innovation and investment hub—and we’re proud to be a part of that journey.”
Mohammed Alzubi, Founder and Managing Partner, added, “This isn’t just a license—it’s a powerful symbol of our commitment to the Kingdom’s entrepreneurial vision. We are fully on the ground, regulated, and aligned with the future of venture capital in the region.”
A VC Firm Built for the Future
Nama Ventures’ localized structure gives it a unique edge. By operating directly under Saudi regulation, the firm is better positioned to:
- âś… Engage with top-tier institutional and government investors
- âś… Support founders with founder-first capital and mentorship
- âś… Accelerate innovation across emerging industries
The firm’s next steps include launching several vertical-focused funds, ensuring both financial growth. Additionally, it aims to align with ethical investment practices through Shariah-compliant offerings.
Looking Ahead
This move isn’t just about regulatory boxes—it’s about reshaping the future of venture capital in Saudi Arabia. Nama Ventures is now in an ideal position to play a pivotal role in Saudi’s Vision 2030. In effect, by supporting game-changing startups and attracting global investment into the Kingdom.