MENA InsureLab, the first dedicated InsurTech venture builder and accelerator in the Middle East and North Africa, has officially launched its operations with headquarters in Dubai.
With Dubai as its operational base, the Lab is rolling out regional chapters in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Tunisia — reflecting a pan-MENA ambition rooted in local insight.
The platform is led by seasoned innovation expert Ms Aicha Ghaffari, who takes on the role of managing director, bringing over a decade of experience in government and private-sector innovation programmes across the GCC.
In a statement, she said, “We are not just launching another programme — we are building the operating system for innovation in insurance.” She added, “From co-creating ventures to scaling proven models, MENA InsureLab will drive real adoption, not just exposure.”
A platform built to deliver impact
MENA InsureLab’s model is anchored on three core pillars:
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Venture builder: Supporting early-stage ideas through concept development, product validation, and team formation.?
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Acceleration platform: Designed for growth-stage startups to access funding, regulatory support, and piloting with insurers.?
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Strategic enabler: Offering insurers, regulators, and investors curated innovation pipelines and a mechanism for systemic modernization.?
UAE Chapter: leading local impact with regional vision
As part of its regional expansion, MENA InsureLab announced the establishment of its UAE Chapter, led by Dr Hisham Al Safadi — a serial entrepreneur and respected insurance industry veteran. With a distinguished track record in launching and scaling ventures across the region, Dr. Al Safadi will steer the UAE Chapter’s strategy, operations, and stakeholder engagement. His leadership will play a pivotal role in anchoring the Lab’s presence locally while aligning with broader MENA-wide goals of innovation, collaboration, and systemic impact.
Flagship programmes to power adoption and scale
At the launch, which was attended by senior industry executives, policymakers, and startup leaders, Ms Ghaffari introduced two signature initiatives:
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The Acceleration & Scaling Programme: A four-month accelerator offering mentorship, up to $200,000 in funding, licensing support, MVP development, and long-term scale assistance.?
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The Venture Studio: Comprising the New Ventures Program (homegrown InsurTech creation) and the New Horizons Program (regional market entry for global InsurTechs).?
These initiatives are supported by a hybrid model that integrates regulatory dialogue, investor access, and hands-on product development — ensuring a path to real-world deployment and sustainability.
Leadership backed by industry icons
Ms Ghaffari also acknowledged the critical role of chairman Mr Ali AlSubaihin, former CEO of Tawuniya and partner at Chedid Re, whose involvement underscores the platform’s commitment to long-term sector advancement.
“Having Mr AlSubaihin chair this platform is not just an honour — it’s a clear signal that MENA InsureLab is built on substance, strategy, and deep industry roots,” she said.
With a multidisciplinary team, experienced advisors, and institutional backing from US-based venture capital firm Technology Innovation Capital (TIC), MENA InsureLab is positioned to lead the MENA region into a new era of InsurTech innovation, adoption, and growth.