Expert Advice: Connecting with angel investors in Abu Dhabi 

A non-profit organization, Emirates Angels is accelerating the startup scene in Abu Dhabi by forming a network of passionate and active investors that can contribute to the early investment stage in the region, by focusing on tech-based startups with a sector-agnostic approach.

The Association focuses on educating both investors and entrepreneurs on the fundamentals of startups, angel investing and venture capital, through providing them with educational resources, coaching, networking opportunities and mentorship programs.

It is critical to note that Emirates Angels does not directly invest in startups, but rather puts these companies in touch with its members who are available to act as angel investors.

As part of our Access to Experts initiative, Emirates Angels can be available to lend support and to connect you with angel investors, as well as provide you with useful information and resources to ease your funding journey. 

Below are some questions sent by our readers via Access to Experts to Emirates Angels that will help shed light on Emirates Angels and their activities. 

What types of startups is Emirates Angels looking for, and at what stages should these companies be?

 Emirates Angels is open to any sector, though the startup must be a technology company.

The organisation usually considers seed-stage and early-stage startups, up to Pre-Series A.

It’s important to note that Emirates Angels’ members are interested in existing businesses to invest in, as opposed to prospective entrepreneurs with a business idea. 

Do you do Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) deals?

A simple agreement for future equity, or SAFE, is an agreement that can be used between a company and an investor, providing rights to the investor for future equity in the company. 

Through a SAFE agreement, the investor receives the right to purchase stock in a future equity round (when one occurs), without having to determine a specific price per share at the time of the initial investment. The SAFE agreement also allows the parties to set certain parameters in advance.

A safe is not a debt instrument, but is intended to be an alternative to convertible notes, beneficial for both the entrepreneur and the investor.

Emirates Angels investors do consider SAFE deals: this is a discussion you can have with the Angels on a case-by-case basis, once you pitch your business to some of the members.

Masaood Rahma Al Masood contributed to these answers as part of Access to Experts: 

Masaood Rahma Al Masood is Chairman of The Emirates Angels Investors Association, a non-profit association that has created a network of passionate and active angel investors that can contribute to the early investment stage in the region.

Why you should connect with Emirates Angels: When it comes to angel investing in Abu Dhabi, you’re in great hands with Masaaod and Emirates Angels, a non-profit organization created to support early-stage entrepreneurs. 

Is an angel investment the ideal funding mechanism for your business? Reach out to Emirates Angels and find out, here. 

Our Access to Experts initiative provides mentorship and support to prospective and existing entrepreneurs looking to grow in Abu Dhabi. Connect with other industry thought leaders here.