Adeo Ressi, CEO of Decile Group, Chairman of Founder Institute, and the inventor of the SAFE Note, has unveiled an ambitious plan to help establish at least 100 new venture capital firms across the Middle East by 2028.
Ressi aims to inject Silicon Valley’s operational expertise and venture infrastructure into the region, supporting the rise of globally competitive startups and the next wave of unicorns.
“We’re seeing exceptional entrepreneurs and investors emerging across the Middle East — classic indicators of a market entering takeoff mode,” Ressi said. “Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia are positioned to lead, each with distinct advantages. The defining venture ecosystems of the region will be decided by 2026.”
UAE vs. Saudi Arabia: A Competitive Moment
The UAE offers a mature financial system, world-class connectivity through Dubai, and a proven track record as a magnet for international talent and capital.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is leveraging its youthful population, strong regulatory momentum, and the transformative push of Vision 2030 — backed by substantial sovereign capital — to build a new innovation economy at scale.
According to Ressi, only about 20 cities worldwide have developed true venture ecosystems. Dubai and Riyadh now have a realistic opportunity to join that elite group.
“You don’t need to replicate Silicon Valley,” he noted. “You need its infrastructure and know-how — adapted to local strengths. We’ve done this in Singapore, Chile, and other high-growth markets.”
Growing Regional Momentum
Through its VC Lab accelerator, Decile Group has already helped launch a dozen VC firms in the Middle East, with one of its largest 2025 fund closes originating from the region. The upcoming quarterly VC Lab cohort aims to add another dozen funds.
At the same time, Founder Institute has supported nearly 100 startups across the Middle East, reinforcing the early-stage pipeline feeding future venture activity.
Regional Visit: Dubai and Riyadh
Ressi will outline his regional strategy during a February visit, engaging with founders, investors, and policymakers.
In Dubai (February 9–14), he is scheduled to speak at the Forbes Middle East Top Advisors & Investors Summit and STEP Conference Dubai. He will then travel to Riyadh (February 15–16) for ecosystem meetings.
Limited press interviews will be available during the trip.
About Decile Group
Decile Group builds mission-driven platforms designed to unlock venture capital globally. Its flagship VC Lab accelerator has supported the launch of nearly 1,000 VC firms worldwide, while Decile Hub facilitates more than $1 billion in annualized limited partner commitments.
About Founder Institute
Founder Institute is the world’s largest pre-seed accelerator and global network of incubators, investors, and mentors. Since 2009, it has supported more than 8,900 founders, whose companies have collectively raised over $2 billion and achieved 150+ exits. Operating in more than 250 cities across six continents, the organization is headquartered in Silicon Valley.
