Mastercard has launched its startup acceleration programme, Mastercard Lighthouse, in the UAE to connect local AI and fintech companies with global banks.
The initiative, launched in partnership with the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office, will target early-stage companies building AI-driven financial tools.
The inaugural UAE edition will specifically seek out startups working on agentic commerce, personalisation, risk management, and MSME credit provision.
By facilitating pilot projects, Mastercard intends to help established financial institutions adopt and scale new technologies while providing startups a pathway to commercialisation.
The Middle East and North Africa region currently hosts around 3,000 AI companies, with the sector projected to grow by nearly 45% annually through 2030, according to industry estimates cited by Mastercard.
Mark Elliott, Division President for East Arabia at Mastercard, noted that the programme provides startups with industry expertise and stronger ecosystem collaboration.
“We are delighted to bring the programme to the UAE and support the country’s ambition to further strengthen its position as a global hub for digital innovation,”
Elliott said.
Mastercard originally launched the acceleration platform in the Nordic and Baltic regions in 2018 to bridge the gap between fintech startups and incumbent banks.
The platform has since expanded to Türkiye and facilitated more than 300 corporate partnerships.
To date, the initiative’s 228 alumni have raised over US$1.3 billion in investment capital.
Applications for the 2026 UAE cohort are open until 19 June.
Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News UAE, based on image by mrsiraphol via Magnific
