Mastercard has launched its startup engagement and acceleration program, Mastercard Lighthouse 2026, in the UAE in partnership with the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office, aiming to accelerate innovation in AI and fintech.
The initiative connects high-potential AI and fintech startups with leading financial institutions, ecosystem partners, and investors through Mastercard’s global network, while fast-tracking their growth via an intensive mentorship program run with global industry experts.
Mastercard Lighthouse UAE is designed to bridge the gap between the rapidly growing startup ecosystem and the ability of financial institutions to adopt and scale innovations.
The program offers a structured pathway for startups and enterprises to collaborate, pilot, and commercialize AI-led solutions that enhance trust, manage risk, and strengthen resilience, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global hub for digital finance.
The inaugural UAE edition will focus on AI-powered solutions in agentic commerce and personalization, risk, trust and resilience, MSME credit provision, and other emerging fintech applications.
Saqr Binghalib, Executive Director at the UAE AI, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office, said that the initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to advancing AI responsibly, strengthening trust, and building a resilient digital economy. He added that the program aims to turn innovation into lasting impact by connecting startups, financial institutions, and partners to create sustainable value for both economies and communities.
Mark Elliott Division President – East Arabia Mastercard
“Mastercard Lighthouse is designed to help promising AI and fintech startups scale through stronger ecosystem collaboration, industry expertise, and commercialization opportunities. We are delighted to bring the program to the UAE and support the country’s ambition to further strengthen its position as a global hub for digital innovation.”
AI adoption continues to rise globally, with 88 percent of organizations using the technology regularly in 2025, up from 78 percent in 2024. In the MENA region, home to around 3,000 AI companies, the market is set to grow at a CAGR of 44.8 percent through 2030, highlighting the need for programs like Mastercard Lighthouse to scale innovation.
Mastercard Lighthouse UAE 2026 is now open to AI and fintech startups. Since its 2018 launch in the Nordic and Baltic regions, the initiative has expanded to Turkey, facilitated over 300 partnerships, generated $1.3 billion in investments, and produced several unicorns among its 228 alumni.
