The UAE started the week with a strong signal: the region isn’t just about oil anymore. From new investments in green infrastructure and port expansion to strategic moves in health tech and logistics, today’s UAE market news reflects the country’s fast-evolving economic landscape.
Let’s break down what happened today.
HOOTL (formerly RIIG) raises UAE investment, targets health tech
RIIG, a cybersecurity and risk intelligence company, announced a significant funding round from UAE-based investors. But the bigger story is their rebrand to HOOTL (Humans Out of the Loop), as they pivot sharply toward health tech and insurance automation.
- HOOTL is focused on building AI-driven systems for healthcare insurance, automating everything from claims to risk assessments.
- The funding will help expand operations in the Middle East, particularly within UAE’s healthcare and government ecosystem.
- An office is also being set up in the UAE, strengthening partnerships with public and private sector stakeholders.
“Investors recognise our tech’s value in automating health insurance, and the UAE is the right place to scale,” said CEO Denver Riggleman.
The rebrand comes during high-level discussions between HOOTL’s leadership and UAE officials. This move is aligned with the UAE’s national AI and digital innovation priorities.
Investcorp to co-invest in $550 million Port of Duqm expansion
Investcorp, through its Aberdeen Infrastructure Partners (AIIP) platform, has announced a major commitment to a $550 million infrastructure project in Oman’s Port of Duqm. This adds another milestone to Investcorp’s regional infrastructure portfolio.
Why is this important?
- The Port of Duqm is strategically located on the southeastern coast of Oman, with access to the Indian Ocean.
- The expansion includes dredging, a new quay wall, and support for a new green steel plant that uses hydrogen, aligned with Oman’s Vision 2040.
- AIIP beat out four other bidders to win this mandate.
This is AIIP’s fourth investment in the region after successful projects in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Key Quote
"We’re proud to support Oman’s Vision 2040. This port is a vital link in global trade and a step forward for sustainable industry," said Mohammed Alardhi, Executive Chairman at Investcorp.UAE education market to add $5.10 billion by 2029
According to the newly released “Education Market in UAE 2025–2029” report, the sector is booming. It’s expected to grow by $5.10 billion over the next five years, driven by:
- Private sector participation in K-12, vocational, and higher education
- Digital-first platforms and online learning models
- Government support for both traditional and new-age education models
The report forecasts a CAGR of 8.6% for the sector, backed by early childhood investments, AI-enabled education tools, and international partnerships.
UAE’s focus on becoming a regional education hub is also helping it attract top global institutions, edtech startups, and student talent from across the Middle East and Africa.
Lalamove enters UAE with instant delivery services
Lalamove, the Hong Kong-based on-demand delivery giant, officially entered the UAE market today, marking its 14th global launch. The company now offers real-time logistics solutions across Dubai, with drop-offs in Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.
What’s unique about their entry:
- Lalamove is tapping into the SME ecosystem, which contributes 40% to the UAE’s GDP.
- Offers features like multi-stop orders, real-time tracking, and a wide vehicle fleet (cars, 1-ton, and 3-ton trucks).
- Focus on driver partners with income incentives like mission bonuses and referral programs.
This move strengthens the UAE’s position as a logistics hub, especially for last-mile delivery solutions.
Final thoughts
The message from today’s UAE market news is clear: the Emirates are not just reacting to change, they’re engineering it. Whether it’s AI in healthcare, green steel, or digitised education, the UAE is positioning itself as a leader in the future-ready economy.
As investors, entrepreneurs, and job seekers look at where growth is heading in the Middle East, the UAE continues to show up on every radar.
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