Khalifa Fund 2026: Loan Programmes for Emirati Entrepreneurs
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) in Abu Dhabi supports Emirati entrepreneurs with seven financing programmes announced in July 2026: the First-time Founders Loan, AI and Robotics Loan, Revolving Loan, Small Loan, Working Capital Loan, Fixed Assets Loan and Expansion Loan. Each has its own eligibility, limits and repayment terms, published by KFED.
The seven programmes
| Programme | What it funds |
|---|---|
| First-time Founders Loan | Essential financing for Emiratis launching their first venture |
| AI and Robotics Loan | Adoption of advanced technology to raise efficiency in priority sectors |
| Revolving Loan | Flexible working capital, reusable after repayment |
| Small Loan | A specialised product for smaller enterprises |
| Working Capital Loan | Operating expenses |
| Fixed Assets Loan | Equipment and other capital assets |
| Expansion Loan | Growth and expansion plans |
KFED states that each programme has its own eligibility requirements, financing limits and repayment terms. These are not published in the July 2026 announcement, so check KFED's official channels before applying. Limits not published
MZN Hub71 Programme
Led by Khalifa Fund with Hub71 at MZN Hub Al Ain: a three-month programme for early-stage Emirati founders in HealthTech, ClimateTech, FinTech, AgriTech and applied AI, ending in a Demo Day. The first cycle, announced on 21 May 2026, took 17 founders from more than 370 applications. See Hub71.
Frequently asked questions
01What is the Khalifa Fund First-time Founders Loan?
A Khalifa Fund programme giving Emiratis launching their first venture essential financing. Limits and terms are set by KFED.
02How many Khalifa Fund programmes are there?
Seven financing programmes, announced in July 2026.
Sources
- Khalifa Fund strengthens financing ecosystem with 7 integrated programmes. Abu Dhabi Media Office, 20 July 2026.
- Khalifa Fund and Hub71 welcome inaugural Emirati founders. Aletihad, May 2026.
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