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The Middle East startup ecosystem just closed out 2025 with a record-breaking $7.5 billion in funding. Yet beneath this headline figure lies a fundamental shift in how founders are thinking about capital structure. We're witnessing a strategic recalibration: one that's forcing entrepreneurs across the MENA region to ask a question that seemed settled just two years ago: Should I dilute equity, or leverage debt? The answer, increasingly, depends on where you sit in your growt

Expanding your business into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region offers a wealth of opportunities. The GCC countries—Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman—are rapidly evolving markets with strong economic growth, strategic geographic locations, and business-friendly environments. But how do you navigate this complex landscape effectively? In this post, I will share insights and practical advice on gcc market entry planning to help you unl

The Gulf Cooperation Council region stands at a defining moment in its economic evolution. With ambitious targets to double manufacturing sector value every decade and a $100 billion commitment to renewable energy infrastructure, the GCC's industrial landscape presents extraordinary opportunities for strategic capital deployment and long-term value creation. At Licorne Gulf Family Office, we position ourselves as strategic partners and investment holding entities in this tra

Growing a business is an exciting journey, but achieving sustainable business growth requires more than just increasing sales or expanding quickly. It demands a strategic approach that balances ambition with stability, ensuring your business thrives over the long term. Whether you are running a startup, managing a family business, or leading a Fortune 500 company, the principles of sustainable growth remain crucial. How can you ensure your business not only grows but does so

Let's talk about something most advisors won't admit: getting capital from GCC Sovereign Wealth Funds and Family Offices isn't just about having a solid business plan and impressive financials. There's a whole playbook these investors use: one that most entrepreneurs never see until it's too late. After 27+ years of facilitating deals across Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, we've sat on both sides of these negotiations. We've watched brilliant businesses get passed over whil

Let's be honest: nobody plans for a financial crisis. But when one hits, the difference between collapse and comeback often comes down to how quickly you act and who's standing beside you. In the GCC, where family businesses and legacy enterprises form the backbone of the economy, distressed asset restructuring isn't just about survival. It's about preserving what generations have built while positioning for future growth. At Licorne Gulf, we've spent over 27 years navigatin

Starting or expanding a business is an exciting journey filled with opportunities and challenges. One of the most critical decisions you will face early on is selecting the ideal business structure. This choice affects everything from your taxes and liability to your ability to raise capital and grow sustainably. How do you know which structure fits your unique goals and circumstances? Let’s explore the key factors and options to help you make an informed decision that sets y

Irina Duisimbekova, Co-Founder of Licorne Gulf Holding At the dawn of our year 2026 , Licorne Gulf , – led by Irina Duisimbekova –  is in pole position for the 2025-2030 Vision Program of Investments following another significant milestone: having secured €436 million in direct investments and funding syndication for both its clients and its internal joint ventures along last past year .  This success highlights the company’s strategic acumen and expanding presence in the gl

Let's cut straight to it: if you're looking for growth capital in the Middle East, the GCC isn't just an option anymore: it's becoming the destination. Founders who once flew to Menlo Park or London are now landing in Riyadh, Dubai, and Doha first. And for good reason. The region is flush with liquidity, backed by sovereign wealth funds managing trillions in assets, family offices evolving into sophisticated institutional investors, and a regulatory environment that's rolled

The Middle East isn't just emerging anymore: it's arrived. If you're a founder, entrepreneur, or business leader seeking growth capital, this region should be at the top of your radar. But here's the thing: navigating the capital landscape here requires more than enthusiasm. It demands insight, strategy, and a clear understanding of what makes this market tick. Whether you're eyeing Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030 projects, the UAE's thriving business ecosystem, or Qatar

Starting or expanding a business is an exciting journey filled with opportunities and challenges. One of the most critical decisions you will face early on is selecting the ideal business structure. This choice affects everything from your taxes and liability to your ability to raise capital and grow sustainably. How do you ensure that your business foundation is solid and aligned with your long-term goals? Let’s explore the key factors and options that will help you make an

Navigating the world of investments can feel overwhelming, especially when the stakes are high and the market is constantly shifting. Yet, with the right approach, you can turn uncertainty into opportunity. I’ve found that adopting smart investment strategies not only protects your capital but also positions you for sustainable growth. Whether you’re managing a startup, an SME, a family business, or a Fortune 500 company, these strategies can help you make informed decisions