Dubai-based immersive media startup VUZ has secured $12 million in a pre-Series C round to broaden its footprint in emerging markets and accelerate its U.S. expansion.
Led by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the round also saw participation from Al Jazira Capital, CrossWork VC’s Success Fund, several Saudi family offices, and existing investors.
Founded by Khaled Zaatarah, VUZ offers 360-degree immersive video experiences from global events like the Grammys, football matches, and fashion shows. The platform competes with industry giants like YouTube and TikTok by providing a more interactive, “inside-the-event” experience via mobile apps, web, VR headsets, and smart TVs.
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From regional player to global contender
The investment from IFC — typically focused on infrastructure and financial services — marks a rare foray into consumer tech. “They were excited about our momentum in emerging markets and creator-focused ecosystem,” Zaatarah told TechCrunch.
With over 15 million users globally (up from 10 million in 2022) and nearly 3 billion lifetime screen views, VUZ has established itself as a strong regional player. Its user base spans the Middle East, U.S., Africa, and Asia, and the platform has signed exclusive streaming deals with La Liga and the Professional Fighters League.
Local creators, global ambitions
VUZ’s growth model includes partnering with over 100 creators who reach a combined audience of more than 100 million. Its “VUZ Studio” team helps edit immersive content, while creators earn revenue through subscriptions and live commerce tools, particularly appealing to influencers in beauty and fashion.
Revenue models are shifting: 40% of VUZ’s content is now behind a paywall, up from 30%, accessible via subscription or telecom bundles. According to the company, it has doubled revenue and grown gross profit by 80% in the past year, achieving EBITDA profitability in 2024.
Targeting underserved creator markets
VUZ plans to continue its aggressive expansion by leveraging over 40 distribution partnerships, especially with telecom providers across Africa and Asia. In contrast to global rivals focused on developed markets, VUZ says it aims to empower creators in underserved regions like Nairobi and Riyadh.
“We’re building a product and monetization model tailored to hyper-local needs — but with the infrastructure to scale globally,” Zaatarah said.
With offices now in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Jordan, and the U.S., and new teams forming in India and Indonesia, VUZ is positioning itself as a global player in immersive content. It expects to surpass 5 billion lifetime views by 2026.
