Latest news with #TarekKabrit
Khaleej Times
25-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Race is on: Who will lead UAE's $100b ‘AI gold rush' by 2030?
The UAE is rushing toward an AI-powered future, with artificial intelligence projected to inject $100 billion into its economy by 2030 — nearly 14 per cent of its GDP. But as the nation positions itself as a global AI powerhouse, a critical question emerges: Who will dominate this transformative landscape? Industry leaders point to Vertical SaaS (VSaaS) companies—specialised software providers with deep industry expertise—as frontrunners in the race to harness AI's trillion-dollar potential. They argue that a fusion of AI with SaaS is set to redefine the business landscape, paving the way for unprecedented innovation and growth. Established SaaS players, particularly those hyper-focused on niche sectors like automotive, healthcare, and finance, are leveraging decades of customer data, industry-specific knowledge, and existing client trust to build AI agents that don't just automate tasks — they think. 'AI agents are redefining the game. We're moving from software you use to software that acts,' says Tarek Kabrit, CEO of Seez, a Dubai-based AI innovator revolutionising car sales through autonomous decision-making tools. These intelligent agents — capable of predicting market shifts, negotiating deals, and optimising workflows — are becoming indispensable. A recent Trends Research & Advisory report highlights that Vertical SaaS providers, already entrenched in industries with complex workflows, are uniquely positioned to train AI systems that solve real-world problems. 'Customers don't want faster software; they want platforms that act like an extension of their team,' Kabrit adds. The UAE's AI strategy, backed by aggressive public-private partnerships, is igniting rapid growth. Recent moves read like a strategic chessboard: A $30 billion AI infrastructure alliance between BlackRock, Microsoft, and Abu Dhabi's MGX; Microsoft's $1.5 billion bet on homegrown AI champion G42; and a $1 billion talent war chest to cultivate local AI expertise. 'The UAE isn't just adopting AI — it's inventing the playbook,' says a Trends Research analyst. The public sector is leading the charge, with 47 per cent of GCC organisations already deploying AI (per Boston Consulting Group), outpacing global peers in digital readiness since launching nationwide AI transformations in 2021. While Vertical SaaS incumbents hold the cards today, insurgent startups and global tech titans are disrupting the field. Microsoft's partnership with G42, for instance, aims to export UAE-built AI solutions worldwide. Meanwhile, new entrants are banking on generative AI's ability to democratize industry-specific tools. Yet experts argue domain expertise remains king. 'Generic AI can't navigate the intricacies of, say, automotive supply chains or patient care protocols,' notes Kabrit. 'Vertical SaaS has spent years decoding these complexities—that's their moat.' As AI reshapes industries, the UAE's fusion of ambition and infrastructure is setting the stage for a showdown. Will Vertical SaaS giants maintain their lead, or will agile newcomers rewrite the rules? One thing is certain: In the UAE's $100 billion AI odyssey, the winners will be those who turn data into decisions, users into collaborators, and software into a tireless ally. 'The future belongs to platforms that don't just assist — they anticipate,' Kabrit concludes. As the race heats up, the UAE's skyline isn't the only thing reaching new heights.
Zawya
25-02-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
Proposed acquisition of Seez by Pinewood.AI to revolutionize global automotive solutions
Dubai, UAE - Seez, a Dubai-based innovator in AI-powered automotive solutions, has announced its proposed acquisition by Pinewood Technologies Group PLC (' for an equity value of $46.2m in a combination of cash and shares with the share component expected to double in the next 3 years. Founded in 2016 by Tarek Kabrit and Andrew Kabrit, Seez began with a disruptive idea: an app identifying any vehicle—from a single picture (Shazam for cars) This vision quickly attracted nearly 3 million users. Recognizing the evolving needs of both consumers and dealerships, Seez pivoted, transforming from a popular mobile app into a world-leading auto AI company. Today, having expanded globally to 16 markets ranging from Mexico to Australia, Seez offers a complete AI and ML-powered SaaS platform built on proprietary technology. Their products include an AI virtual assistant, e-commerce and omnichannel modules, and AI-powered digital marketing services. Seez serves a growing roster of Tier 1 clients, including leading automotive dealer groups, OEMs, and online classifieds, and has secured key partnerships with top finance, insurance, and SaaS providers globally. The company's rapid growth is evident in its $4.4 million annual recurring revenue as of December 2024, marking a 5x increase compared to the previous year, with projections to triple again by December 2025. proposed acquisition of Seez delivers a powerful combination of advanced AI capabilities, a loyal customer base, and a strong financial foundation, all while capitalizing on the growing importance of AI in automotive retail. With over 1,300 customer rooftops and a high-margin, recurring revenue model, Seez adds immediate value to This strategic move is strongly supported by Lithia Motors Inc., Pinewood's parent company and the largest dealer group globally, who plans to integrate Seez's AI Virtual Assistant, Seezar, across its global network of dealerships. Tarek expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to join forces with Pinewood at such a pivotal moment in the automotive industry. By combining our advanced AI-driven solutions with Pinewood's proprietary data and deep dealer integrations, we are creating a next-generation platform that will empower dealerships with smarter, more efficient tools to drive growth." Tarek emphasized that the acquisition accelerates Pinewood's expansion into the North American market while allowing both companies to redefine how dealers interact with technology, streamline operations, and enhance customer experiences. "The future of automotive retail is intelligent, autonomous, and data-driven and we couldn't have asked for a better partner to make that future a reality," he added. CEO Bill Burman reflected on the strategic importance of the proposed acquisition, noting that the partnership builds on their strong progress since initial investment in Seez in September 2024. "Seez is an outstanding company that has developed highly sophisticated AI and machine learning products that are increasingly critical tools for the automotive retail market and they are highly complementary to our own Automotive Intelligence Platform." Burman said. This proposed acquisition positions Seez and Pinewood as trailblazers in the automotive sector. Together, they aim to lead the charge in providing smarter, more efficient industry solutions that help their customers unlock value, drive performance and profitability. That's + Seez, an AI powered secure end-to-end fully cloud-based ecosystem designed by car people for car people. About Seez: Seez is an automotive technology company established in 2016 and focused on AI-powered solutions for car dealers and OEMs. With headquarters in Dubai and an office in Copenhagen, Seez delivers a suite of SaaS products designed to enhance efficiency, automation, and customer engagement. Our solutions range from omnichannel retail platforms and predictive pricing models to advanced machine learning tools and AI-driven chat solutions. Operating across 16 countries, Seez empowers automotive businesses with data-driven insights and seamless digital experiences. Further information can be located by visiting For more information on Seez, please contact: Priyanka Prakash priyanka@
Zawya
25-02-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
UK's Pinewood.AI to acquire Dubai's Seez for over $46.2mln
UK-based is set to take over Dubai-headquartered autotech start-up Seez in a new deal valued at more than $40 million. Pinewood, which provides cloud-based software in the automotive industry, has signed an agreement to acquire the outstanding 90.9% share capital of Seez from other current shareholders for $42 million (£33.3 million). The new agreement follows Pinewood's initial $4.2 million investment in Seez in September 2024. 'We are thrilled to join forces with Pinewood at such a pivotal moment in the automotive industry… We are creating a next-generation platform that will empower dealerships with smarter, more efficient tools to drive growth,' said Tarek Kabrit, CEO of Seez. The acquisition is set to be completed on or around March 19, 2025. Once the deal is completed, Pinewood will own 100% of the share capital of Seez, with the aggregate investment, including last year's, totalling $46.2 million. The new deal includes a cash consideration of £22.8 million, cash cancellation amount of £3.9 million and £6.6 new ordinary shares issued to certain sellers. (Writing by Cleofe Maceda; editing by Seban Scaria)
Wamda
24-02-2025
- Automotive
- Wamda
Pinewood.AI to acquire UAE's Seez for $46.2 million
UK-based automotive intelligence platform has agreed to acquire Seez for $46.2 million in cash and shares. The share component is expected to grow over the following three years. Founded in the UAE in 2016 by Tarek Kabrit and Andrew Kabrit, Seez is an autotech company that provides car dealerships and OEMs with software solutions to improve their customer experience and increase sales. Last year, Seez raised a $4.2 million investment round, and ever since, it has expanded globally to 16 markets ranging from Mexico to Australia. Press release: Seez, a Dubai-based innovator in AI-powered automotive solutions, has announced its proposed acquisition by Pinewood Technologies Group PLC (' for an equity value of $46.2 million in a combination of cash and shares, with the share component expected to double in the next 3 years. Founded in 2016 by Tarek Kabrit and Andrew Kabrit, Seez began with a disruptive idea: an app identifying any vehicle—from a single picture (Shazam for cars) This vision quickly attracted nearly 3 million users. Recognising the evolving needs of both consumers and dealerships, Seez pivoted, transforming from a popular mobile app into a world-leading auto AI company. Today, having expanded globally to 16 markets ranging from Mexico to Australia, Seez offers a complete AI- and ML-powered SaaS platform built on proprietary technology. Their products include an AI virtual assistant, e-commerce and omnichannel modules, and AI-powered digital marketing services. Seez serves a growing roster of Tier 1 clients, including leading automotive dealer groups, OEMs, and online classifieds, and has secured key partnerships with top finance, insurance, and SaaS providers globally. The company's rapid growth is evident in its $4.4 million annual recurring revenue as of December 2024, marking a 5x increase compared to the previous year, with projections to triple again by December 2025. proposed acquisition of Seez delivers a powerful combination of advanced AI capabilities, a loyal customer base, and a strong financial foundation, all while capitalising on the growing importance of AI in automotive retail. With over 1,300 customer rooftops and a high-margin, recurring revenue model, Seez adds immediate value to This strategic move is strongly supported by Lithia Motors Inc., Pinewood's parent company and the largest dealer group globally, which plans to integrate Seez's AI Virtual Assistant, Seezar, across its global network of dealerships. Tarek expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to join forces with Pinewood at such a pivotal moment in the automotive industry. By combining our advanced AI-driven solutions with Pinewood's proprietary data and deep dealer integrations, we are creating a next-generation platform that will empower dealerships with smarter, more efficient tools to drive growth." Tarek emphasised that the acquisition accelerates Pinewood's expansion into the North American market while allowing both companies to redefine how dealers interact with technology, streamline operations, and enhance customer experiences. "The future of automotive retail is intelligent, autonomous, and data-driven—and we couldn't have asked for a better partner to make that future a reality," he added. CEO Bill Burman reflected on the strategic importance of the proposed acquisition, noting that the partnership builds on their strong progress since initial investment in Seez in September 2024. "Seez is an outstanding company that has developed highly sophisticated AI and machine learning products that are increasingly critical tools for the automotive retail market and they are highly complementary to our own Automotive Intelligence Platform." Burman said. This proposed acquisition positions Seez and Pinewood as trailblazers in the automotive sector. Together, they aim to lead the charge in providing smarter, more efficient industry solutions that help their customers unlock value, drive performance and profitability. That's + Seez, an AI powered secure, end-to-end, fully cloud-based ecosystem designed by car people for car people.
