- UAE-based AqlanX receives a $10 million investment from Lakeba Group via its AI arm DoxAI, supported by the UAE’s NextGen FDI initiative.
- AqlanX develops Arabic-first, UAE-made AI technologies focused on enterprise automation and document intelligence.
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A strategic partnership with the University of Wollongong in Dubai will establish a national AI Centre of Excellence to foster local talent and research.
AqlanX, a homegrown artificial intelligence company based in the UAE, has announced a $10 million investment from Lakeba Group via its AI venture DoxAI. The investment was facilitated through the UAE’s NextGen FDI initiative, which aims to attract innovation-driven companies to accelerate digital growth across the country.
This strategic funding will accelerate AqlanX’s mission to localize and scale enterprise-grade automation solutions across the Middle East using DoxAI’s proven technologies.
Founded in 2025 by Demetrio Russo, AqlanX is committed to developing Arabic-first, UAE-built AI technologies that:
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Automate business processes
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Enhance enterprise efficiency
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Transform document and workflow management for large organizations
The company aligns its roadmap with the UAE’s national innovation and digital economy strategy, aiming to position the country as a global hub for artificial intelligence and future technology.
Building AI Talent Through Strategic Partnerships
In line with the UAE’s national capacity-building goals, AqlanX, DoxAI, and Lakeba have partnered with the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) to establish a Centre of Excellence in AI. This initiative will:
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Develop local AI talent
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Support academic research and innovation
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Cultivate a sustainable AI ecosystem in the UAE
Leadership Commentary
H.E. Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, commented:
“This collaboration between AqlanX, Lakeba, and DoxAI demonstrates the strength of the NextGen FDI programme in driving cross-sector strategic partnerships. It reinforces our commitment to creating an ecosystem that empowers innovation in key sectors such as AI.”
Giuseppe Porcelli, Executive Chairman of Lakeba and DoxAI, added:
“This investment is more than capital—it’s a shared vision. AqlanX represents the next frontier of enterprise AI in the region, and we are proud to contribute our expertise and technology to fuel its success.”
Demetrio Russo, Founder and CEO of AqlanX, stated:
“With the support of Lakeba and DoxAI, AqlanX is building world-class AI rooted in the UAE and tailored for Arabic-speaking markets. We are establishing a hub for innovation that reflects the ambitions of the region and empowers local enterprises to lead globally.”
Positioned for Regional AI Leadership
With Lakeba Ventures’ strategic capital and DoxAI’s proprietary technology, AqlanX is positioned to become a regional leader in enterprise AI, helping governments and businesses transition to smarter, more efficient digital operations.
Launched in 2022, the NextGen FDI initiative is a flagship program of the UAE’s Ministry of Economy. It aims to attract high-potential global companies in AI, advanced manufacturing, renewables, and robotics, while supporting the country’s economic diversification and innovation leadership. AqlanX joins a growing cohort of over 100 companies under the program.
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العربية (Arabic) To read the article in Arabic, click here
