Red Sea Global just partnered with Bunat Ventures to launch a venture fund that will back 25 AI-focused companies over the next three years.
The fund will focus on two types of companies: AI-native startups that build their entire business around artificial intelligence, and businesses that use AI as a core tool to run their operations. Both pre-seed and growth-stage companies can apply for funding.
Red Sea Global operates 10 resorts at The Red Sea destination and runs Red Sea International Airport. These facilities will serve as live laboratories where funded startups can test their technologies with paying customers and real operational challenges.
“At Red Sea Global, we view innovation as a catalyst for a regenerative future,” the company stated. The partnership aims to accelerate Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation while helping startups become regional champions.
Bunat VC Brings Operational Support to Saudi AI Venture Fund
Bunat Ventures Limited isn’t a typical hands-off investor. The Abu Dhabi Global Market-regulated firm operates as a venture builder, meaning it actively helps companies grow through operational support, not just capital.
“Our collaboration with Red Sea Global brings together visionary development and agile venture capital,” said Khaled Zainalabedin, CEO and Managing Partner at Bunat VC. “Together, we are building a platform to empower the next generation of Saudi AI pioneers who will redefine industries, shape communities, and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the global innovation arena.”
The fund prioritises Saudi-based entrepreneurs and Saudi-founded companies expanding into the Kingdom. Beyond funding, investee companies will get introductions to customers, help with recruiting talent, strategic guidance, and connections to other investors and technology partners.
Red Sea Global Infrastructure Gives AI Startups Real Testing Environment
Most venture funds write checks and wait. This AI venture fund in Saudi Arabia offers something different: immediate access to operational infrastructure.
Startups backed by the fund can pilot their technologies across Red Sea Global’s properties. That includes hotels, restaurants, an international airport, and soon-to-open attractions like Shura Island and an 18-hole championship golf course called Shura Links.
For an AI company building hospitality software, customer experience tools, or logistics systems, this access solves a major problem: finding real customers willing to test unproven technology. Red Sea Global provides that testing ground from day one.
AI Venture Fund Aligns With Vision 2030 Digital Economy Goals
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan aims to diversify the economy beyond oil. AI and digital transformation sit at the centre of that strategy.
The Saudi Data and AI Authority established the National Strategy for Data & AI to position the Kingdom as a global AI hub. Projections suggest AI could contribute $130 billion to Saudi Arabia’s digital economy by 2030.
The new Red Sea Global AI venture fund fits directly into this national priority. By supporting local entrepreneurs and attracting global talent, the fund addresses Vision 2030’s goals around innovation, job creation, and digital excellence.
Red Sea Global is owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which deployed $36.2 billion in 2025, making it the world’s most active sovereign wealth fund. The fund’s backing gives the AI venture initiative credibility and staying power.
Red Sea Global AI Fund Applications and Investment Focus
The fund will invest over three years starting in 2026. While specific investment amounts haven’t been disclosed, the focus on 25 companies suggests meaningful check sizes that can support companies through multiple funding rounds.
Priority goes to startups that can benefit from Red Sea Global’s operational environment. That likely means companies working on:
- Hospitality technology and guest experience AI
- Logistics and supply chain optimisation
- Sustainability and regenerative tourism tools
- Customer service automation
- Facilities management systems
- Airport operations and passenger flow
The fund also seeks to foster collaboration between investors, universities, and technology partners, creating a full ecosystem around the funded companies rather than isolated investments.
