Read time: 2 mins summary & 10 minutes

Welcome to the second edition of Tech A newsletter.
Each week, I provide insights into technology and business developments, and share updates on the local Tech ecosystem (starting with the GCC region). You will also find a curated list of funding, business opportunities, and upcoming events.

⚡ Your 2-Minute Summary

💡 The fastest, most efficient, proven method I found to validate your product idea with real customers:

This week, I found the perfect methodology to find your core customer segment & validate any tech product idea. It's fast, cheap, lean, and focused.
The Bullseye Method by Google Ventures' UX expert, Michael Margolis, helps technical founders answer their most important questions: who exactly needs this Solution? Is my Solution the right one? The method: Identifying & interviewing 5 specific customers about 3 distinct prototypes in 1 day.

Before coming up with the 'Bullseye Customer Sprint methodology,' Michael Margolis conducted +200 hands-on research sprints before coming up with the right methodology. Exactly what I look for: specific, concrete advice from someone who has done it with proven results.

This methodology is perfect for new product development projects, early-stage startups, or a corporate company entering new segments.
In my essay, I dive deeper into the highlights of the methodology. To get all the details about this methodology, read his free online book: Learn More Faster.

📚 Interesting Reading & Listening:

• YC's requests for the next pioneers: Government tech for public safety, chip manufacturing breakthroughs, and stablecoin infrastructure - validated business models preferred by MENA VCs

• MENA VC insights: Khaled Talhouni reveals local VCs prioritize founders with deep market understanding and clear unit economics

📊 MENA Tech Updates:

• Abu Dhabi expanded its golden vendor list to 145 industries, offering local companies privileged access to government procurement

• GIGATONS launched in Abu Dhabi: $100B blockchain/AI platform for net-zero transition

• Partanna partners with ADIO: Converting desalination waste to eco-friendly concrete

🚀 Funding & Support Programs:

• Google for Startups launches at Hub71 Abu Dhabi: $300K cloud credits + mentorship

• Plug and Play's Aswan Bootcamp: Supporting 60 Egyptian startups in 6 months

💡Find your core customer & validate your product idea in 1 day

While working & collaborating with technology companies, there is an essential question that we, technical folks, need to spend more time on. Who, exactly, are we building this product/solution for? On the web, you will find the concept of ICP: Ideal Customer Profile. It describes a hypothetical company or individual that would gain the most value from your product/service and provide the most value to your business. The ICP is mainly used for sales & marketing guys to find new clients. I wanted something more akin to our fast-paced environment, a methodology that gets to the essence of the problem the product is trying to solve and to the person in most need. A few days ago, I found the concept of the Bullseye customer by Michael Margolis! He has been a UX (user experience) research partner at Google Ventures for +15 years. He has conducted +200 hands-on research sprints. He then pioneered this to help startups. The promise? A focused, efficient, and fast approach. As he elegantly said:

What I like about his approach is that it's for early-stage startups; it's tailored to what they need and are willing and able to do. It's fast, efficient, and cheap in time. It also gets you out of your tech comfort zone (I know, I've lived my entire life there).

The methodology is explained in his free online book. I'll give you a quick summary with key takeaways here so that you get an initial idea.

Bullseye customer sprint summary:

Definition:

Your bullseye customer is the very specific subset of your target market who initially is most likely to adopt your new product or service.

Goals:

• Get the right WHO: Validate and refine a hypothesis about who a company's bullseye customers will be—the specific subset of your target market who is initially most likely to adopt your new product or service.

• The What: Identify the features and unique value propositions customers will value most.

The formula: 5 customers, 3 prototypes, 1 day!

Yes, that's it. You look for 5 real customers, you make 3 prototypes (easy ones, like mock landing pages), and you conduct your interviews in one day.

Why those numbers?

• 5 customers: that's where you start to get diminishing returns and you don't learn much. You need to do your work beforehand to select and be as specific as possible beforehand.

• 3 prototypes: 3 forces you to propose things outside your bias. 3 forces customers to evaluate the pros & cons carefully (instead of 1 or 2). More makes it more complicated for you and more overwhelming for customers to keep track of.

• 1 day: Observing and debriefing all five interviews as a team in one day quickly exposes patterns and drives agreement on key takeaways and next steps

When to do it?

As early as possible. The added value of customer research is most significant when the risk and cost of building the wrong product are high, such as for hardware, hard tech, healthcare, or any other complex product or service, ideally before spending time, money, and energy into building, and launching an MVP (R&D, marketing, operations..etc.). You'll avoid making the wrong product and save months & 10s of thousands of dollars with just the right few days of work.

For larger companies, this is also applicable when launching into new segments, new products & new core features.

How is it done? Sprint Process Overview:

1. Goal Setting & Planning

• Create a prioritized list of key research questions

• Define specific inclusion/exclusion criteria for bullseye customers

• Consider trigger events that make customers receptive

• Plan for 5 customer interviews in one day

1. Customer Recruitment & Preparation

• Write a detailed screener questionnaire

• Recruit 5 bullseye customers who match the criteria

• Prepare 3 distinct prototypes/mockups to test

• Create an interview guide with discovery and comparison sections

1. Sprint Execution ("Watch Party")

• Conduct 5 one-hour interviews in a single day

• The team observes interviews via livestream

• Hold debrief sessions between interviews

• Take detailed notes using designated notetakers

• Compare customer reactions across

Key Success Recommendations:

1. Selecting 5 Customers

• Define specific triggers that indicate customer readiness

• Create exclusion criteria to avoid false positives

• Screen for recent relevant experiences, not hypothetical interest

• Offer appropriate incentives ($125+ for consumers, match hourly rates for professionals)

• Avoid friends/family/previous customers

• Schedule all interviews in one day to maintain momentum

1. Interview Process

• Structure: 30min discovery + 30min prototype review

• Start broad, then focus gradually

• Ask for specific recent examples rather than hypotheticals

• Use "WWWWH" questions (who, what, when, where, how)

• Watch for body language and tone changes

• Let customers lead prototype exploration

• Don't pitch or explain - observe and listen

• Record sessions for team viewing

1. Prototypes

• Create 3 distinct versions (enough variety, not overwhelming)

• Make them visually distinguishable

• Keep mockups simple but realistic-looking

• Focus on value props rather than detailed UI

• Use clear headlines that capture key differences

• Complete prototypes within days, not weeks

• Consider using competitor products as "free prototypes"

1. Documentation/Review

• Assign primary and secondary notetakers

• Capture verbatim quotes when significant

• Debrief immediately after each interview

• Look for patterns across all 5 interviews

• Focus on actual behaviors over stated preferences

• Document specific objections vs. general positive feedback

• Track differences between discovery phase reactions and prototype feedback

• Have team submit independent takeaways before group discussion

I'm thinking:

I love this method because it's simple; it forces you to think carefully about your prototypes and your bullseye customer profile. You get to the essence of the problem you're trying to solve, and you get that clarity that all founders yearn for. It's the Pareto of market research, the 10% of work (or even lower) that gets you 80% of the insights.

Resources:

The book: Lear More Faster by  Link

Listen to his podcast episode explaining the process, the why, and his pro tips: link

📊 MENA Tech Updates

Abu Dhabi expanded it’s golden vendor list to 145 industries to support local companies:

The Golden Vendor List is a strategic initiative launched by the Abu Dhabi government under the Abu Dhabi Local Content (ADLC) Programme. Its primary aim is to enhance local business participation in government procurement processes, thereby stimulating economic growth and diversification within the emirate. The updated list now encompasses 145 industries , covering 74% of the government's product-based procurement needs, and is designed to support both government and private sector entities in sourcing from a wider pool of high-quality local suppliers.

💡 Business opportunity: If you meet the government procurement standards, you get a privileged seat into the selection process. It’s one of those things where it’s best to get as early as possible. It’s an opportunity to get an edge over international competitors.

Official source to know & apply: Abu Dhabi Industrial incentives programs: link

Blockchain & Green Energy: Launch of a global technology platform in Abu Dhabi to fast track net zero transition

GIGATONS, launched by GRIDSERVE founders in Abu Dhabi, is a global technology and funding platform aiming to mobilize $100 billion for net-zero transition through three divisions: GIGASERVE (scaling EV charging infrastructure), GIGATECH (blockchain/AI-powered transparency platform), and GIGACAPITAL (investment platform).

Deep UAE roots: founders' parents pioneered eco-homes and solar projects in Abu Dhabi, Ras-Al-Khaimah, and Al-Ain

Announcement highlights:

• Partnership with UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, ADIO, and Abu Dhabi Mobility

• Officially launched at Abu Dhabi Finance Week with support from Energy Ministry Undersecretary

• Their first major project in Australia: partnership with Flow Power for an EV charging network (Q1 2025)

Tech Features:

• Blockchain and AI integration for carbon tracking + solar power for mining.

• Tokenization of investments and carbon credits

• Built on Alephium blockchain with sustainable Proof of Work (net zero mining)

• GIGA Protocol for verified carbon reduction measurements

The company aims to leverage Abu Dhabi's position as a financial hub while supporting UAE's climate goals through its technology and funding solutions.

My insights: projects like this are only possible because of these factors: reduced energy costs with internal solar power installations, support from Abu Dhabi government for blockchain regulations (ADGM), a complete ecosystem from electricity generation to EV charging. Tokenization of investments will allow individuals to invest and scale this project. It’s a win for the individuals, the company, and the government.

Source: Zawya

Decarbonizing the concrete industry: Partanna & ADIO partnership

Staying with decarbonization. The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has formed a strategic partnership with Partanna, a climate tech company from the Bahamas, to establish its regional headquarters and a cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi. Cement production accounts for 9% of global dioxide emissions.

Why it makes sense in UAE:
By replacing carbon-intensive clinkering with magnesium compounds derived from brine —a by-product of desalination, which is the main source of water in UAE— Partanna turns a waste stream into a valuable resource while producing a cost competitive product.

Source: https://www.wam.ae/en/article/149bjjh-abu-dhabi-investment-office-partners-with-partanna

🗓️ What I’m reading/Listening:

Y Combinator’s list of requests for the next unicorns:

A gold mine for tech ideas by the most recognized incubator in the world. Key request topics: Government & Public Safety, Manufacturing, Chips, Stablecoins, jobs 2.0. Greg Isenberg’s post summarizes the YC request wonderfully (link). I suggest you read it from the official source (YC website).

For Tech companies in MENA, remember that many local VCs still prefer if you implement a tech idea similar to a successful venture in the West. It makes sense because it’s less risky as an investment, and the business model is validated (although not in the same local context).

How MENA VCs Evaluate Founders (Insights from Khaled Talhouni):

An insightful podcast episode by MENA Startup Show. You’ll get insights into how local VCs evaluate startups and how to increase your chances to get funding. Link

🗓️ Events

Event recap, Logimotion 2024: Logistics & Innovation Tech

It was a small focused event that promoted innovation in logistics and connected sectors. It was a worthwhile visit as I discovered interesting startups as well as key players in the region. Here are the innovations that picked my interest:

• Orbbec: 3D cameras for accurate 3D object dimensioning, fall detection, and logistic bin picking. We don't think about it, but robots don't usually see in 3D (depth). However, a wealth of use cases need the depth axis information.

• Workcraft: an intelligently designed, well-thought-out hiring software. Yes, it uses AI.... but the way it uses it makes excellent sense. It helps you craft the job description based on your needs and database benchmark. It ranks skills and other requirements so that when you evaluate, it reduces your bias. It then screens your 100 CVs so you can only focus on the few that matter. Check out their demo to understand more.

• GoFleet: an all-in-one fleet management system. It's incredible how they manage everything from detecting a truck driver's sleepiness to following environmental conditions into your warehouse or cold rooms. Sectors include airports, construction sites, transportation, and delivery.

A quick feedback about the global AI & Blockchain summit: This is an event you go to for networking purposes only, not for discovery. The discussion are very insightful but the exhibition is small.

🤝 Funding & Support

Google Startup program Launched in Abu Dhabi

Google partner with Hub71 to launch "Google for Startups" program in Abu Dhabi to support growth and innovation. This creates a unique opportunities for “Hub71 startups” to continue a fulfilling growth journey from Abu Dhabi.

Accelerator Program highlights (2025):

• Process: Selection of 25 high-potential startups, from Hub71 ecosystem, for a 3-month program focused on scaling and business model optimization.

• Cloud Credits: Up to $300,000 in Google Cloud credits for top-performing startups.

• Networking: Access to Google’s global mentors, industry leaders, and potential funding via Alphabet’s investment divisions.

• Thematic Focus Areas: web3, sustainability, and AI.

What this means for tech startups: Hub71 is the most influent, tech hub for startups in Abu Dhabi. It’s one of your MENA go to place if you want to build a global tech company in the region. You usually need to integrate their ecosystem in order to apply for these programs.

If you want to understand more about the Hub71 ecosystem. They will be hosting a webinar on 16th Dec Online (link). Resource: link

Bootcamp Program in Egypt by the most active Global VC:

Plug and Play, ranked 2023’s Most Active Global VC (Pitchbook), has launched the Aswan Bootcamp Series aimed at empowering tech-enabled startups in Egypt.

Here are the key highlights:

• Objective: The initiative seeks to support 60 startups over six months, enhancing regional innovation and sustainable growth in Upper Egypt.

• Program Structure: The bootcamp includes eight-day in-person workshops followed by two weeks of tailored mentorship for each cohort. Participants will benefit from Plug and Play’s extensive global network, gaining insights into market development, financial management, scalability, and growth strategies.

• Inauguration: The program commenced on November 19th, attended by notable figures including Egypt’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology.

• Focus Areas: The bootcamp targets startups in sectors such as agri-tech, health-tech, e-commerce, tourism, and gov-tech. The first cohort includes 12 startups from various regions including Aswan and Assiut.

Article source: link

Amine Rabehi

Find me on LinkedIn or Book a Free Call

🔍 Whenever you’re ready, here are 3 things I can help you with:

• Technology Solution/Product consultancy: I help you assess your product idea from a technological & business point of view. So far, I have built a network of professionals covering the MENA region in term of IP, Market Research & Complex AI solution development.

• Market entry strategy and support: understand the market, legal framework

• Tech Product Development Solutions: I’ve managed more than 15 tech product development projects (hardware & software). I help you go from idea to initial batch launch.