WideBot secures $3mn funding to develop Arabic-centric AI model ‘AQL’

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GHADA.ISMAIL
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Feb 11, 2025
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Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: WideBot AI, a company specializing in AI solutions and models, announced raised $3 million in a Pre-Series A funding round led by Keheilan Asset Management, with participation from Saudi-based Al Wafra II, Enza Capital, DisrupTech Ventures, Den VC, and SparkLabs Ventures.

The funding will accelerate the development of WideBot’s proprietary AI model, AQL—the first Arabic large language model (LLM) hosted on local cloud servers in Saudi Arabia, as per a recent press release.

This ensures compliance with Saudi regulations, enhances data security, and strengthens national digital sovereignty.

AQL, recognized as the most accurate Arabic LLM, understands dialects and accents across the Arab world. It outperformed competitors in a comprehensive evaluation, reinforcing its role in digital transformation for governments and enterprises.

Mohamed Nabil, WideBot AI’s CEO, emphasized the alignment of its mission with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The company aims to boost economic diversification, job creation, and operational efficiency through localized AI solutions tailored to the Arab world.

Salah Khashoggi, Chairman of Al Wafra II, highlighted the significance of investing in transformative tech firms to advance Vision 2030. Similarly, Ahmed Abdelhamid, CEO of Keheilan Asset Management, lauded WideBot AI’s role in promoting regional technological independence through Arabic-centric AI innovation.

WideBot AI has already served over 350 government and enterprise clients, including the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the Royal Protocol, and Egypt’s Tax Authority. With a presence in 12 countries and over 200 million Arabic-speaking users, WideBot continues to solidify its leadership in Arabic AI, helping organizations streamline operations and reduce costs.

Mike Mompi, Enza Capital’s co-founder, described WideBot AI as a pioneer in localizing AI for the Arabic-speaking world. AQL is set to redefine business operations and unlock economic potential across the Middle East and Africa.

WideBot AI remains at the forefront of AI innovation, delivering solutions that respect local culture and privacy while driving digital transformation across the Arab region.


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