VUZ, the startup behind immersive video experiences from major global events like La Liga matches and red carpet shows, has secured $12 million in pre-Series C funding to expand its reach in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and high-growth regions like Africa, Asia, and the United States.
The round was led by the International Finance Corporation (IFC)—marking a rare consumer tech bet by the World Bank Group arm—with additional backing from Al Jazira Capital, CrossWork VC’s Success Fund, several Saudi family offices, and returning investors.
While IFC is typically focused on infrastructure and logistics, its investment in VUZ signals growing interest in consumer platforms that serve mobile-first audiences in emerging markets. VUZ’s CEO and founder Khaled Zaatarah says IFC was drawn to the company’s global growth plans and deep presence in the content and creator economy.
“We’re building a creator-focused product that scales globally—but starts local,” Zaatarah said. “That vision is exactly what got IFC excited.”
Betting Big on Immersive Internet
VUZ, formerly known as 360VUZ, positions itself as a next-gen streaming platform offering 360-degree and VR content that lets users step into events virtually—whether that’s a Grammy performance, a football match in Spain, or a fashion show in Dubai. The platform is accessible via smartphones, the web, VR headsets like Apple Vision Pro and Oculus, and smart TVs.
The company isn’t trying to beat YouTube or TikTok at their own game. Instead, it’s carving out a niche with immersive video content and strategic partnerships. VUZ has already landed exclusive streaming deals with La Liga and the Professional Fighters League and works with over 100 content creators with a combined following of 100 million+.
Growth Strategy: Hyper-Local Meets Global Scale
With user growth stalling in saturated markets like the U.S., VUZ is going where others aren’t. Its user base has surged from 10 million in 2022 to 15 million today, with screen views jumping from 1 billion to nearly 3 billion.
Its expansion is powered by 40+ global telecom partnerships, especially in regions like Nigeria, Egypt, Indonesia, and Kenya, where mobile video consumption is booming. In the U.S., VUZ is shifting from organic user growth to performance-driven marketing, aiming to convert viewers of live award shows into loyal users.
Revenue has doubled over the past two years, and gross profit rose 80% last year. The platform now offers 60% of its content for free, with the remaining 40% behind a subscription paywall or bundled through telecom deals. In 2024, VUZ hit EBITDA profitability, according to Zaatarah.
Part of that efficiency comes from its lean creator model. Rather than rely on in-house crews, VUZ equips freelance creators with proprietary cameras and lets them upload immersive content remotely. Equipment costs are deducted from future earnings—similar to ride-hailing business models.
Empowering Local Creators, Especially in the Middle East and Africa
To further support content creators, VUZ runs “VUZ Studio,” an internal unit that helps creators edit and publish content quickly. It also offers livestream commerce tools, letting influencers—especially female creators—sell fashion and beauty products in real time.
In markets like Riyadh, Nairobi, and Lagos, where the creator economy is still developing, VUZ is tapping into local talent early. The goal is to give creators a monetizable platform before YouTube and TikTok dominate those regions.
Zaatarah is confident that VUZ’s mix of local partnerships, immersive content, and creator-first tools can unlock a different kind of internet experience—one that’s native to emerging markets but scalable to the world.
“YouTube and Netflix aren’t building for creators in places like Nairobi or Riyadh,” he said. “We are.”
VUZ now operates offices in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, and the U.S., with teams expanding in India and Indonesia. A South Africa launch is also on the horizon.
Farid Fezoua, IFC’s Global Director for Disruptive Technologies, summed up the bet: “VUZ’s tech edge and global creator reach align well with our mission to back scalable platforms that empower local innovation.”
