Hospitality Startup Mezza Launches in UAE Following Funding Round

Mezza, a UAE-based hospitality platform, has launched after raising an undisclosed seed round from a group of angel investors, as restaurants seek new ways to sustain footfall.

Founded in 2025 by Kevin Boubil, the platform provides upfront capital to restaurants in exchange for future dining credit, which is typically redeemed by customers over a 12-month period.

The model offers between $5,300 and $2.7 million (Dh20,000 to Dh10,000,000) in non-dilutive funding, structured as prepaid food and beverage credit sold at wholesale value and distributed to app users. The staggered redemption is designed to align restaurant costs with customer traffic throughout the year.

The company said its investor base includes the founders of Property Finder and Jellysmack, as well as the chairman of Deel.

Early partners on the platform include Gates Hospitality, Rosy Hospitality, Chic Nonna and Fab Food Co, with further venues expected to join as the platform expands.

The funding will support Mezza’s growth as it scales its model across the UAE, targeting both independent and established operators. The company positions its approach as an alternative to traditional financing, enabling restaurants to access capital without taking on debt or giving up equity, while also driving consistent customer demand.