Astra Tech, the region’s largest tech ecosystem and fastest-growing fintech company headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has announced the strategic opening of its new Dubai office within the DIFC Innovation Hub. This move positions Astra Tech as the largest fintech entity within the thriving innovation ecosystem of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
The official announcement was marked by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony during the 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit, held on May 6-7, 2024, at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.
The ceremony was witnessed by Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority. The MoU was signed by Mohammad Alblooshi, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Innovation Hub, and Abdallah Abu-Sheikh, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Astra Tech.
Astra Tech’s new office is set to open in June 2024, aligning with the company’s accelerated expansion plans and commitment to pioneering advancements in the technological and financial sectors.
DIFC, renowned for its regulatory expertise and financial acumen, offers an optimal environment that supports growth, innovation, and collaboration within the financial sector.
Home to over 1,000 innovation and tech firms, the DIFC Innovation Hub provides a platform for Astra Tech to engage with both local and global industry leaders as it embarks on its growth journey.
Abdallah Abu-Sheikh, Founder of Astra Tech and CEO of Botim, expressed the significance of this strategic move: “The opening of our Dubai office in DIFC’s Innovation Hub reflects Astra Tech’s role in a larger narrative of innovation and indigenous technological advancement.
Our vision, shared with DIFC, is to firmly establish the UAE on the global tech map. We are committed to showcasing that the region has the potential to not only participate in but lead the technology race and set a global benchmark.
Today, Botim is the MENA’s first Ultra platform, developed right here in the region, and we’re on a mission to revolutionize app functionality, access to fintech services, and user experience.”
The Botim Ultra app, a cornerstone of Astra Tech’s fintech offering, enhances connectivity while promoting financial inclusivity through a comprehensive suite of financial services.
With over 150 million users across 155 countries, Botim is a pivotal component of the UAE government’s initiative to position the nation among the world’s most innovative.
Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO of DIFC Innovation Hub, remarked, “From inception, DIFC Innovation Hub’s mission has been to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem where innovation can flourish.
Welcoming Astra Tech into our community underscores our ongoing commitment to nurturing cutting-edge companies poised to redefine industry standards and drive significant growth and economic contribution within the regional industry landscape.”
Astra Tech’s integration into DIFC coincides with the Centre’s 20th anniversary, a milestone year that has seen DIFC report a historic 34% growth in active companies, totaling 5,523, including 1,451 newcomers in 2023 alone. Astra Tech is set to positively contribute to DIFC’s ecosystem enhancements and its role as a global hub for innovation and technological advancement.
About Astra Tech
Astra Tech is the MENA region’s leading consumer technology holding group, dedicated to transforming everyday services with its revolutionary Ultra Platform. In 2022, the group acquired PayBy, Rizek, and the VoIP app Botim, culminating in the creation of the Ultra App under Botim’s umbrella.
Today, Botim operates in 155 countries, offering free end-to-end encrypted VoIP calling and seamlessly integrating services such as international money transfers, bill payments, and UAE visa services.
Astra Tech remains steadfast in its mission to advance technology and enhance user experience in the region through continuous innovation.
About Dubai International Financial Centre
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world’s most advanced financial centers and the leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA). With a 20-year track record, DIFC connects these fast-growing markets with the economies of Asia, Europe, and the Americas through Dubai.
Home to an independent regulator and a proven judicial system, DIFC hosts the region’s largest financial ecosystem, comprising over 41,500 professionals across 5,500 active registered companies. The Centre’s vision is to drive the future of finance through cutting-edge technology, innovation, and partnerships.
