Nama Ventures Becomes First Foreign VC Fully Regulated by Saudi CMA, Set to Operate Locally
Nama Ventures has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first foreign venture capital fund fully regulated under Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority (CMA) law. Following the strategic relocation of its regulatory headquarters, the firm has received CMA approval to commence investment management operations directly within the Kingdom.
Strategic Move Aligns with Vision 2030
This official approval from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) marks a pivotal strategic step for Nama Ventures, confirming its long-term commitment to Saudi Arabia's innovation ecosystem. The move follows the firm's decision to transfer its regulatory headquarters to the Kingdom, aligning with the nation's rapidly evolving investment environment and advanced regulatory framework. Having successfully met all requirements and received its commencement letter, Nama Ventures is now fully licensed to operate as a Saudi investment company.
Leadership Perspectives
Reflecting on the achievement, HRH Prince Fahad bin Sultan bin Fahad Al Saud, Chairman and General Partner at Nama Ventures, stated that securing the license mirrors the profound economic and regulatory transformation occurring in the Kingdom. "Vision 2030 continues to transform the Kingdom into a thriving global hub for innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship – this achievement places Nama at the heart of this accelerating momentum," he added.
Mohammed Alzubi, Founding and Managing Partner at Nama Ventures, emphasized the significance beyond regulation: "This letter represents not just regulatory approval; it is an expression of deep commitment to the Kingdom's pioneering vision."
Future Investment Plans
Nama Ventures plans to continue launching its main funds while also introducing a range of Shariah-compliant investment vehicles. These funds will target investments in high-growth startups primarily located in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region, as well as in select international markets.
Enhancing Local Collaboration
The establishment of a local operational structure is expected to enable Nama Ventures to deepen its collaboration with institutional and sovereign investors within the Kingdom. Furthermore, it aims to enhance the value proposition offered to founders seeking a reliable and well-integrated investment partner in the Saudi market.
About Nama Ventures
Nama Ventures is a venture capital firm focused on investing in high-growth startups. Having secured full regulatory approval from the CMA, it is now licensed to operate as a Saudi investment company, strengthening its commitment to the MENA region's entrepreneurial landscape.
Looking Ahead
By becoming the first foreign VC to achieve this level of regulatory integration within Saudi Arabia, Nama Ventures has positioned itself centrally within the Kingdom's dynamic innovation ecosystem. This move is expected to facilitate greater investment flow and support for startups aligned with Vision 2030.
Source: Jawlah