Abu Dhabi’s Aldar Properties Launches New Innovation Programme for Proptech Startups

Abu Dhabi-based real estate development, management and investment firm, Aldar Properties, has announced the launch of the first edition of its corporate innovation programme, Aldar Scale Up, as it looks too attract proptech startups from across the world, with a view to not only facilitating their entry into the UAE, but to enable them to conduct pilot projects alongside Aldar and other key players in the MENA-wide industry.

The programme is being undertaken in partnership with Abu Dhabi-based global accelerator, startAD, and its partner, Tamkeen, while tech ecosystem, Hub71, will be represented on the selection committee. Said committee will, after the four-month run of the virtual programme, see 10 selected startups pitch, five of which will win pilot projects with Aldar.

Hub71’s involvement extends beyond the committee, with the selected startups set to be automatically listed for the Hub71 Incentive Programme, which offers more than $400,000 worth of equity-free subsidies including up to 100% housing, health insurance and WeWork x Hub71 office space for up to three years.

What exactly is Aldar looking for? Well, interested startups are required to provide sustainable, innovative solutions to the real estate sector, ranging between everything from effective energy management to the development of smart cities.

"Fostering a culture of innovation internally at every level of our business helps us create intellectual and practical progress at Aldar towards a better customer experience and lifestyle,” Maan Al Awlaqi, Executive Director  at Aldar. “This encompasses both product ideation and enhancements and further leads to improvement in processes and UX experiences.”

Registration is now open and will close on February 27th. The final selection will be announced on March 4th, before a four-week virtual training programme kicks off on March 15th. The 10 chosen startups will then pitch on April 8th. Click here for more information and to apply.