CarniStore Secures $12.2 Million Investment From Emirates Growth Fund to Expand Premium Operations

A Landmark Investment for UAE Food Tech

CarniStore, the UAE’s digital-first premium butchery and protein platform, has secured a $12.2 million strategic minority investment from the Emirates Growth Fund (EGF). The AED 45 million deal marks the fund’s first foray into the food sector and is designed to transform the homegrown brand into a national champion. The capital will be utilized for industrial scaling, product diversification, and regional expansion beyond the United Arab Emirates.

Scaling Premium Quality

Founded in 2018 by Daniel Wanies and Fikry Boutros, CarniStore has built a reputation for high-quality meat, poultry, and seafood delivered through a sophisticated digital retail model. The platform integrates sourcing expertise with proprietary production, including its own smokehouse and dedicated supply chain. This funding will support the brand as it moves toward institutional readiness, ensuring that rapid growth does not compromise the artisan standards consumers expect.

Strategic Growth and Regional Vision

The partnership with EGF provides more than just growth equity. The fund will work alongside the founders to strengthen governance and go-to-market strategies. According to Khalifa Al Hajeri, CEO of Emirates Growth Fund, the investment reflects a mandate to support high-potential businesses within the priority sectors of the national economy. This active partnership aims to refine operational capabilities and accelerate the brand's penetration into broader Middle Eastern markets.

A Vision for the Future

CarniStore Co-Founders emphasize that this capital injection allows them to grow with intention. Future plans include the launch of new product verticals and the enhancement of internal production facilities to meet the growing demand for premium protein products. By maintaining its entrepreneurial grit while adopting institutional structures, CarniStore aims to lead the regional F&B sector and prove that a UAE-born brand can compete on an international stage.