Qlub raises $30mln to take its hit dining payment system global
This latest funding round underscores the growing demand for seamless, technology-driven dining experiences and positions Qlub to accelerate its global expansion, enhance its product offerings, and further integrate its solutions into the hospitality ecosystem.
"From the very beginning, we saw in Qlub more than just a payments solution—we saw a new infrastructure for how hospitality should work in a digital-first world. Eyad and Mahmoud and the team have consistently proven that they can blend product innovation with deep market understanding, unlocking new behavior at the intersection of tech and experience," noted Mahmoud Adi, Founding Partner at Shorooq. "We are proud to have backed Qlub from the earliest days, and remain committed to supporting visionary companies redefining everyday moments across emerging markets."
Founded in 2021 by Eyad Alkassar and Mahmoud Fouz, Qlub has rapidly emerged as a pioneer in the contactless payment space, offering QR-based solutions that allow diners to view menus, place orders, and settle bills seamlessly using their smartphones. By eliminating the need for physical menus and traditional payment methods, Qlub enhances operational efficiency for restaurants and provides a frictionless experience for customers.
With a presence in thousands of establishments across many markets, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, Brazil, Qatar, Kuwait, and Korea, Qlub has demonstrated significant traction in diverse markets. It is now processing a few billion USD annually and serves millions of customers on a monthly basis, making it the leading QR payment solution for restaurants globally.
Notable clients include Paul Cafe, Wagamama, Sushi Samba, and La Petite Maison (LPM), where the implementation of Qlub's solutions has led to strong improvements in customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Qlub clients report a 300% increase in tips, a sevenfold increase in positive Google reviews, an 80% reduction in checkout line by streamlining the process, reducing labor costs, and decreasing the number of required cashiers by an average of a third, and an overall improvement in space utilization by minimizing the need for multiple cashier counters.
"From day one, Qlub has shown how technology can simplify and modernise hospitality. We backed them at seed and are thrilled to support them again as they scale their solution globally and change how restaurants operate," added Filip Dames, Founding Partner of Cherry Ventures. "We look forward to supporting their continued success."
The participation of industry leaders such as e& and Mubadala Investments in this funding round reflects the strategic importance of Qlub's solutions in the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry.
"Qlub's innovative approach to enhancing the dining experience aligns with our commitment to supporting digital transformation in the region," said Khalifa Alshamsi, CEO of e& Life. "We are excited to partner with Qlub as they continue to redefine the standards of service in the hospitality sector."
With the new funding, Qlub plans to:
Expand its presence in existing markets and enter new regions.
Enhance its product offerings by integrating advanced analytics and insights to provide restaurants with a deeper understanding of customer behavior and preferences.
Strengthen partnerships with key players in the hospitality and technology sectors to drive further innovation and adoption of contactless payment solutions.
'Our vision is simple: Qlub makes paying at restaurants ten times faster — and that elevates the entire dining experience,' said Eyad Alkassar, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Qlub. 'Why would any restaurant, anywhere in the world, choose to operate without it?"
'We're thrilled to have the support of investors, both new and existing partners as we continue to build Qlub's vision,' said Mahmoud Fouz, Co-Founder and co-CEO of Qlub. 'We're grateful for the confidence our investors have placed in us and excited for what lies ahead.
About Qlub
Qlub is a fintech company revolutionizing the dining experience through its contactless payment solutions. By enabling diners to view menus, place orders, and pay seamlessly using their smartphones, Qlub enhances operational efficiency for restaurants and provides a frictionless experience for customers. With a presence in over 3,000 establishments across multiple countries, Qlub is committed to transforming the hospitality industry through innovation and technology.
About Shorooq
Founded in 2017, Shorooq is a multi-dimensional investment firm. Our venture capital and credit practice invests in the most innovative technology companies across the MENA region and beyond. We have built deep sectoral expertise in fintech, platforms, software, and deep tech. Shorooq has backed category leaders such as Pure Harvest Smart Farms, Nymcard, Tamara, Sarwa, Lean Technologies, TruKKer, Mozn and Lendo.
Shorooq was built on the values of building with founders and identifying attractive returns for investors. We pride ourselves on a local presence across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Korea.
Visit us at www.shorooq.com
Shorooq refers to a group of companies that are affiliates of each other and which operate under this business name, of which Shorooq Partners Ltd (regulated by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority FSRA FSP: 190004 as a category 3C Fund Manager) is a member.
Media Contacts:
Tarek Fouad
Chief Marketing Officer, Shorooq
Shorooq Group Press: press@shorooq.com
Direct: tfouad@shorooq.com
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
6 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
School uniforms aren't cheap: Cost rundown and how UAE parents are saving money
[Editor's Note: This article is part of Khaleej Times' Schools and Parents, a dedicated section designed to support families in the UAE as they explore educational choices. The section offers explainers, guidance from education leaders, expert advice and insights from parents to help readers make informed decisions about schools, curricula and communities.] For some parents in the UAE, shopping for school uniforms costs just a few hundred dirhams each year. For others, it can be a Dh2,000 dent in the household budget per child. With rising prices and additional items like jackets, shoes, and bags pushing totals even higher, families are carefully weighing what's truly essential. Schools across the UAE are set to reopen on Monday, August 25, following nearly two months of summer break. As Khaleej Times reached out to a cross-section of parents, we found that a mandatory uniform set for grades K–11 at some schools can cost around Dh600, covering shirts, pants or skirts, PE attire, and a jacket. However, at other schools, when blazers, shoes, accessories, and seasonal items are added, the total can quickly rise, with some spending nearly Dh5,000 annually. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Meanwhile, international comparisons show UAE parents may shoulder higher costs than many abroad, placing the country among the more expensive educational uniform markets. As revealed by the National Retail Federation, in the US, K-12 shoppers are budgeting $253 (about Dh923) per child for clothing and accessories, while in the UK, as per a research published by the Children's Society, parents spend around £287 (Dh1,355) for primary students and £422 (Dh1,992) for secondary. Parents counting every dirham Syrian expat Aiham Joratli, whose daughter is entering Year 1, said he spends about Dh1,500 in Al Ain for back-to-school expenses. 'A complete set of two uniforms costs Dh600. A branded school bag is Dh350, shoes Dh200, and lunch box and bottles Dh300–400,' he said. 'Prices in Al Ain are more reasonable than Dubai or Abu Dhabi, but it really depends on what you choose to buy.' For Dubai parent Ami Rasheed, whose children attend a GEMS school, uniforms alone came to Dh1,000. 'That's two sets of shorts and pants, two regular uniforms, one sports uniform, and one winter jacket per child,' she said. 'Shoes are separate — around Dh50 each for regular ones — because kids outgrow them quickly. I buy moderately priced sports shoes for the same reason.' She added, 'I prefer getting everything from 'Threads', the official supplier, rather than hunting for cheaper outlets in Sharjah. Convenience matters too.' American expat Natalia Miranda said, 'I have a nine-year-old son and this year I'm budgeting Dh2,000 for his back-to-school uniform, PE kit, trainers, boxing gear, lunch bag and a few extras. But I wish the uniforms were better quality and made from more natural fabrics.' Tailoring and second-hand options Many parents rely on community WhatsApp groups, Facebook pages, or school sales to source pre-loved school items. However, some note that it's not always possible to find everything second-hand, making tailoring a practical alternative. Neimat Ilyas, whose son goes to a GEMS school, said, 'I've been getting the school uniforms tailored for about three years now. Word spread through the WhatsApp school groups that some tailoring shops were making replicas of the school uniforms. These shops even source the fabric and stitch the uniforms, and they embroider the logo by pulling an image from the internet. The only noticeable difference is that the official store uses a digitally printed logo, whereas the tailors stitch theirs. So far, the school hasn't raised any issues with it.' She emphasised when it comes to affordability, the difference is significant. 'In the first year, we saved around Dh100 per set. We ordered nearly four sets of uniforms — what would cost around Dh95 for a shirt and Dh105 for a pant at the official store only cost Dh50 at the tailoring shop. The biggest problem with the official uniform centre is their sizing — and it's something everyone complains about. You either end up paying extra for alterations or opt for customisation. But even then, the designated vendors charge an additional Dh50 for customisation on top of the already high price of the uniforms.' Smart ways parents are cutting costs To help manage expenses, some parents say buying one set now and another mid-year can spread out spending, while uniform swap programmes — where gently used items are exchanged or donated — are helping to reduce costs and waste. Some also recommend buying accessories and non-logo basics from hypermarkets, as long as they match school colour and style guidelines. French expat, Marie Dubois, said, 'I usually buy one set at the start of the year and another midway through to spread the cost as I have three children. Uniform swap programmes organised by schools also help, and for basics without logos, I pick them up from UAE shops while they are on sale or from my home country while travelling, as long as they match the school's colours and style.' Rules on school-specific uniforms Meanwhile, education authorities have urged schools to clearly state in their fact sheets whether uniforms must be purchased from official suppliers. Many Dubai schools now allow parents to buy from external vendors, provided the items match the required design. Uniform costs must also be transparently disclosed to parents before the start of the school year. For example, North London Collegiate School (NLCS), one of Dubai's most expensive premium schools, lists uniform prices in its fact sheet ranging from Dh300 to Dh5,000, available for purchase directly from the school or via approved external suppliers. Schools defend the value of uniforms While parents continue to grapple with rising uniform prices, school leaders in the country argue that uniforms bring benefits in student equality, convenience, and school spirit — though finding ways to balance cost and quality remains an ongoing challenge. Lisa Johnson, Principal, American Academy for Girls, said, 'We believe uniforms promote a sense of belonging and help reduce social pressures around clothing brands, allowing students to focus on learning. My support for uniforms is also shaped by my previous experience as principal of the first public school in Oklahoma (US) to adopt uniforms, where they proved effective in fostering equity across a community with varied economic backgrounds. Uniforms also reduce the morning stress of deciding what to wear, which can be particularly pronounced for adolescents. Students, parents involved in designing uniforms Headteachers reiterated when it comes to uniforms, community feedback is also important to schools. 'If we were making a major change, we would consult our families from the outset. As a small school, it can be challenging to offer a wide variety of uniform options while keeping stock available, but we are always exploring ways to allow girls to individualise their style while remaining within our uniform guidelines. 'Our supplier is Magrudy's, one of the largest vendors in Dubai. They incorporate sustainable practices wherever possible, including using a percentage of recycled fabric. At the end of each school year, we also host a uniform drive where parents can donate outgrown items and exchange them for the correct size, which extends the life of each garment and helps reduce the amount of clothing sent to landfills,' added Johnson. GEMS American Academy – Abu Dhabi, is taking a collaborative approach that puts students' comfort and preferences first. Acting Head of the school, Dr Ethan Hildreth, said, 'In addition, we offer alternative fabrics to support students who might have particular needs. Students wear polos rather than ties, in keeping with a school-spirited American team ethos. Students, parents, and school colleagues were all consulted. Student representatives of school government brought in designs they liked, and elements of various designs were discussed. Students were able to try on samples, model them, and use them in practical trial applications. Parents were similarly consulted and were able to wash, dry, crease, and otherwise test the functionality of uniforms, in addition to providing feedback on the aesthetic qualities.'
Emirates 24/7
30 minutes ago
- Emirates 24/7
Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy supports the establishment and expansion of 308 digital startups
Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has announced that it successfully supported 308 high-potential digital startups to establish and grow their businesses in the emirate during H1 2025, achieving year-over-year (YoY) growth of 39% compared to the 221 companies supported during the same period last year. His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy commented: 'We are committed to developing an integrated digital business environment that provides the foundations for success for talents and digital companies, and supports their expansion from Dubai to global markets. We continue our efforts to enhance Dubai's attractiveness as a global hub for digital companies, entrepreneurs, and technology investors by strengthening the digital infrastructure, enhancing the legislative and regulatory environment, and creating an ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.' 'By strategically fostering a world-class ecosystem, we are not just attracting but actively empowering the next generation of tech leaders. We are dedicated to building impactful pathways for these companies to thrive, innovate, and expand from Dubai to the world, further cementing the city's role as a key player in the future of the global economy. These results from the first half of the year demonstrate the significant momentum we are building as we continue to accelerate Dubai's digital transformation journey.' Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, said: 'In line with our commitment to supporting the growth of tech companies in Dubai, 10 events were organised during the first half of this year to enhance partnerships and support the digital economy sectors. We also organized 15 international roadshows to showcase Dubai's advanced digital business ecosystem and promote the upcoming edition of Expand North Star, the world's largest event for startups and investors.' Organised in October 2025 by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, Expand North Star brings together the world's leading startups, innovators, investors, entrepreneurs, and digital leaders to explore the unique growth opportunities offered by Dubai and contribute to shaping the future of the digital economy. The roadshows featured presentations on Dubai's competitive advantages and the comprehensive support offered by the chamber to digital startups seeking to expand into the emirate. It also included pitch competitions showcasing innovative ideas, with the winner in each city receiving a fully sponsored opportunity to participate in Expand North Star 2025. Additional competitions were held for a chance to qualify for the final stage of the Supernova Challenge, the region's largest startup pitch competition, which will be held as part of the exhibition.
Emirates 24/7
30 minutes ago
- Emirates 24/7
Wasl Becomes First Developer to Offer Exclusive Allocation to First-Time Home Buyers in South Garden
As Dubai continues to attract global talent and long-term residents, Wasl Group, one of the emirate's leading real estate developers, is launching a new phase of the popular South Garden project, with a significant commitment to first-time home buyers. In line with the Dubai First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) program, a substantial share of the newly released residential units in South Garden Buildings D & E will be reserved to eligible first-time buyers. This marks Wasl's substantial contribution to the program, reinforcing its role in supporting the city's vision to deliver 17,000 affordable homes across six key neighborhoods. Meeting demand, creating opportunity Building on the rapid 48-hour sellout of South Garden's initial phase in 2024, the new D & E buildings bring a curated mix of studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments to the heart of Wasl Gate, a vibrant freehold master development in Jebel Ali. Strategically located with direct Metro access and proximity to Festival Plaza Mall, the project blends connectivity with calmness, featuring private amenities such as a gated Zen Garden. The project reflects Wasl's enduring commitment to delivering tranquil, well-connected communities that hold long-term value for residents and investors alike. As part of its partnership with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Wasl is granting registered first-time buyers exclusive early access to the units, along with tailored incentives such as discounted pricing, flexible payment plans and reduced upfront fees. With a limited portion of the units being released to the public and a track record of rapid sellouts, this allocation strategy is expected to spark strong interest from end-users. As for first-time buyers, it represents not just an opportunity, but a rare window to secure a home in one of Dubai's most promising freehold communities. Building for trust 'The fact that so many are choosing to buy their first home through Wasl speaks volumes. It reflects not only the strength of our communities, but the trust we've earned to deliver quality, opportunity and value in a competitive market.' said Mohamed Al Bahar, Director of Business Development, Wasl Group. He added: 'With this launch, we're reaffirming our role as a developer of purpose, supporting Dubai's evolving housing needs while giving first-time buyers a real chance to step onto the property ladder.'
