Shark Tank Dubai Returns: Season 3 Premieres Tonight with New Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
Following two successful seasons, Shark Tank Dubai returns for its third season, premiering tonight, April 28, 2025, on Dubai TV. Backed by Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI), the popular show continues its mission to support the UAE's entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting ambitious founders with prominent investors.
Fueling Dubai's Entrepreneurial Spirit
DMI emphasizes that the return of Shark Tank Dubai aligns with its commitment to supporting the SME sector and fostering entrepreneurship, considered a key engine of economic growth. Salem Baliouha, Executive Director of Content Sector at DMI, highlighted the program's role in achieving the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the size of Dubai's economy and establish it as a top global economic hub. "SMEs are a fundamental pillar of the economy... contributing to diversifying its sources and providing opportunities for a large segment of youth," Baliouha stated, noting the show features bold ideas reflecting the aspirations of young people driving development. He added that the program acts as an incubator, enabling founders to expand networks and leverage Dubai's investment environment.
Season 3 Launch Details
The highly anticipated Season 3 premieres tonight, April 28, 2025, at 10:30 PM Dubai time on Dubai TV and the Awaan digital app. This season will feature pitches from over 77 entrepreneurs hailing from the UAE and around the world. Contestants will present their projects and products, seeking investment from the panel in exchange for equity.
The Investor Panel: Core Sharks and Guest Investors
Season 3 sees the return of the core investor panel, known for their extensive investment expertise. The core "Sharks" are:
Elie Khoury: Founder of Vivium Holding and Chairman of Omnicom Media Group MENA.
Faisal Belhoul: Emirati entrepreneur, investor, Vice Chairman of Dubai Chambers, and founder of Ithmar Capital Partners and Amanat Holdings.
Amira Sajwani: Emirati entrepreneur, Managing Director of Sales and Development at DAMAC Properties, and Founder & CEO of PRYPCO.
In addition to the core panel, each episode will feature two prominent guest investors, highlighting the program's significance. The impressive roster of guest investors for Season 3 includes:
Adel Sajan: Managing Director, Danube Group
Mohamad Ballout: Co-Founder & CEO, Kitopi
Noor Sweid: Founder & Managing Partner, Global Ventures
Toufic Kreidieh: Chairman & CEO, Brands For Less Group
Sima Ved: Founder & Chairwoman, Apparel Group
Mona Kattan: Founder, Kayali (and Co-Founder Huda Beauty)
Mona Ataya: Founder, Mumzworld & Co-Founder, Bayt.com
Cordell Broadus: Entrepreneur & Creative Economy Investor (managing the family investment office for Snoop Dogg)
Ahmed El Sewedy: CEO, Elsewedy Electric
Matt Higgins: CEO, RSE Ventures
Proven Impact and Season 3 Expectations
The show has already demonstrated significant impact. Season 2 attracted over 65 entrepreneurs and saw investments exceeding AED 31 million benefit 27 projects from the UAE and region. Sara Al Jarman, Head of TV & Radio Channels at DMI, described the program as "an important platform for showcasing ambitious ideas and pioneering projects," contributing to investment awareness and motivating youth.
The returning core investors also shared their perspectives. Elie Khoury praised the show's flexibility and ability to provide funding and mentorship, helping startups reach new levels. Faisal Belhoul highlighted its role as inspiration and a discovery platform for promising opportunities and talent. Amira Sajwani emphasized that the show is an "important economic and social experience" enriching Dubai's ecosystem and empowering entrepreneurs to leverage the emirate's supportive environment. She noted the show teaches valuable skills in pitching, negotiation, and deal-making.
The diversity of projects, ideas, and participants from various nationalities in Season 3 reflects Dubai's own cultural and social diversity. DMI has invested its technical capabilities to present the show, promising noticeable developments in its format and presentation for the new season.
Looking Ahead
With a proven track record and an even stronger lineup of investors, Season 3 of Shark Tank Dubai is set to provide valuable opportunities for participating entrepreneurs and engaging viewing for audiences interested in the vibrant startup scene of Dubai and the wider region.
Source: Emarat Al Youm