Mastercard Opens AI Startup Program in UAE with Hub71

Startups building AI solutions for financial services just got a major opportunity in the Middle East.

Mastercard and Hub71 announced applications are now open for Mastercard Lighthouse UAE 2026, selecting six startups for a four-month accelerator program launching this year. The program specifically seeks companies working on AI-powered solutions across fintech, commerce, risk management, and small business services.

Selected startups must have a commercially live product ready for partnerships, not just early concepts. Companies either operating in the UAE or planning to expand there can apply, provided they've reached at least early seed stage funding and have dedicated teams in place.

The program is the first Mastercard Lighthouse chapter in the United Arab Emirates and forms part of the Mastercard UAE AI Center of Excellence. It's being delivered in collaboration with the UAE's Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office, signaling strong government backing for the initiative.

Participants will receive hands-on mentoring from industry experts, training workshops, and direct access to Mastercard's global network. More importantly, startups will connect with potential customers among financial institutions and get opportunities to test their solutions through proof-of-concept partnerships.

Hub71 brings its Abu Dhabi startup ecosystem to support the program, connecting founders with investors, corporate partners, and regulators. The organization has built a reputation for helping companies scale from the UAE capital into regional and international markets.

The Ripple Effect goes beyond the six selected startups. By focusing on AI solutions for small and medium enterprises, risk management, and financial inclusion, this program could help shape how businesses and individuals across the Middle East access financial services. Mastercard already runs successful Lighthouse programs in the Nordics, Baltics, and Turkey, creating proven pathways for startups to grow.

The program targets specific verticals including AI-powered risk and trust solutions, personalized commerce, emerging fintech innovations, and credit propositions for small businesses. These focus areas address real gaps in how financial services reach underserved markets.

Demo Day will cap off the four months, giving startups a chance to showcase their progress to investors and potential business partners. The structured curriculum includes customer touchpoints, investor meetings, and strategic partnership discussions throughout the program.

Organizations interested in partnering with the accelerator can also reach out to the Mastercard Lighthouse UAE team. With government support, corporate backing, and ecosystem infrastructure in place, this program offers AI startups a genuine launchpad into Middle Eastern markets.