Dubai Launches REACH MENA to Accelerate PropTech Startups Across the Region

New Accelerator Supports Dubai's Vision for Real Estate Innovation

Dubai has launched REACH MENA, a new regional PropTech accelerator aimed at supporting property technology startups and strengthening the emirate’s position as a global hub for real estate innovation.

The programme officially began during PropTech Connect 2026 and brings together a first cohort of startups from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India.

The initiative is backed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and Dubai Technology Entrepreneurship Campus (DTEC), reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to fostering innovation within the real estate sector.

Supporting Dubai’s Long-Term Growth Strategy

The eight-month accelerator is led by Second Century Ventures, the venture capital arm of the US-based National Association of Realtors.

The programme is designed to help early-stage PropTech companies operating across real estate development, sales, rentals, construction, and building services.

According to Dubai Land Department, REACH MENA aligns closely with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, both of which emphasize digital transformation, innovation, and private-sector growth.

Driving Efficiency and Transparency in Real Estate

Majid Al Marri, Chief Executive Officer of the Real Estate Registration Sector at Dubai Land Department, said the accelerator will help advance Dubai’s long-term real estate objectives.

He noted that REACH MENA will contribute to improving efficiency, transparency, and market readiness through innovative technology solutions while strengthening Dubai’s role as a testing ground for new real estate technologies.

Funding, Mentorship, and Global Market Access

Participating startups will gain access to funding opportunities exceeding $1 million, along with mentorship, investor introductions, regulatory guidance, and long-term support through Second Century Ventures’ international network.

The accelerator is being managed by Siddiq Farid, founder of SmartCrowd, and Karim Helal, a regional technology entrepreneur and founding board member of the Dubai PropTech Business Council.

Helping Founders Scale Faster

According to Siddiq Farid, the programme is designed to bridge the gap between innovation and real-world market opportunities.

By combining government support, industry mentorship, and access to capital, founders will be better positioned to scale their businesses both regionally and internationally.

First Cohort Includes Eight High-Growth Startups

The inaugural REACH MENA cohort consists of eight startups working across a variety of real estate technology sectors.

These companies are developing solutions in areas such as:

• Development analytics

• Artificial intelligence

• Digital twins for off-plan sales

• Rental payment platforms

• Construction procurement

• Embedded finance solutions

• Real estate agency technology

The diversity of the cohort highlights the growing role technology is playing across the entire real estate value chain.

Dubai Strengthens Its Position as a Startup Hub

Hans Henrik Christensen, Vice President and General Manager of Dubai Technology Entrepreneurship Campus, said the initiative reflects Dubai’s broader strategy of attracting and retaining technology entrepreneurs.

He emphasized that creating collaborative environments where startups can work alongside established institutions is critical for long-term innovation and growth.

A Global Expansion Into the Middle East

REACH MENA represents the first Middle East expansion of the global REACH accelerator programme.

Since launching in 2019, REACH has supported more than 300 PropTech companies worldwide.

With the launch of REACH MENA, Dubai continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading destination for startups, technology innovation, and real estate transformation.