
Sanabil
Description
Sanabil Investments, wholly owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), operates as a significant global financial investment company. Established with a mandate to strategically deploy capital into private markets, Sanabil plays a crucial role in diversifying the Saudi economy beyond oil, aligning with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives. Its investment philosophy centers on long-term value creation through both direct investments and commitments to leading global funds.
The firm employs a dual investment strategy, engaging in direct equity investments in high-growth companies while also acting as a substantial fund-of-funds investor. Sanabil primarily targets growth-stage and late-stage companies, seeking to partner with innovative businesses that demonstrate strong potential for market leadership and sustainable expansion. Geographically, its reach is global, with a focus on key technology hubs and emerging markets across various sectors, including but not limited to technology, healthcare, and industrials. In 2023, Sanabil announced ambitious plans to invest approximately $1.5 billion annually in venture capital funds and direct investments in startups, underscoring its commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth.
With substantial capital backing from the PIF, Sanabil possesses significant financial firepower, enabling it to participate in large, complex transactions. The firm reportedly managed assets exceeding $30 billion as of 2022, positioning it as a major player in the global private equity and venture capital landscape. This considerable asset base allows Sanabil to adopt a patient, long-term investment horizon, providing stable capital to its portfolio companies and fund partners. Its strategic approach emphasizes building robust, enduring relationships with entrepreneurs and fund managers, aiming for impactful contributions to the companies it backs.
Sanabil's presence in the global investment arena reflects Saudi Arabia's growing influence in private capital markets. By deploying capital into cutting-edge technologies and disruptive business models worldwide, Sanabil not only seeks financial returns but also aims to foster knowledge transfer and economic development within Saudi Arabia. Its role extends to attracting international talent and expertise, contributing to a vibrant domestic innovation ecosystem.
Investor Profile
Sanabil has backed more than 29 startups, with 6 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 16 rounds, about 55% of its total and boasts 2 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series B, Series C, Pre Seed rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates.
- Strong thematic focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Software, Information Technology.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $20M – $200M.
Stage Focus
- Series B (21%)
- Series C (17%)
- Pre Seed (14%)
- Series D (10%)
- Series A (10%)
- Seed (10%)
- Undisclosed (7%)
- Series I (3%)
- Series E (3%)
- Series F (3%)
Country Focus
- United States (41%)
- Saudi Arabia (34%)
- United Arab Emirates (17%)
- France (3%)
- Singapore (3%)
Industry Focus
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Software
- Information Technology
- Machine Learning
- Analytics
- E-commerce
- Financial Services
- Fintech
- Retail
- Predictive Analytics
Frequently Asked Questions
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