The new funding will be used to expand a sovereign AI platform focused on sectors such as energy, ports, aviation, and logistics.
AI company 1001 has secured $30 million in a Series A funding round to scale its sovereign artificial intelligence platform for critical infrastructure across the GCC.
The round was led by Lux Capital, with participation from Sanabil Investments, Hanabi, and 9Yards, which is owned by PIF. Existing investors, including General Catalyst, CIV, and Stanford AI researcher Chris Ré, also increased their backing.
Founded in 2025, the GCC- and London-based company develops AI operating systems that enable organisations to manage critical infrastructure, including aviation, ports, logistics, energy, manufacturing, and industrial operations.
The company said its systems are locally built, owned, and governed, enabling organisations to retain full control of their operations while leveraging AI to enhance decision-making and efficiency.
Bilal Abu-Ghazaleh, Founder and CEO of 1001, said the funding signals growing confidence in the region’s capacity to develop advanced AI technologies.
“The GCC operates some of the world’s most critical infrastructure. Organisations in the region are seeking AI systems they can trust to support real-time decision-making while maintaining control of their operations,” he said.
He added that the new funding will enable the company to strengthen its engineering team and expand its footprint across key GCC markets.
According to the company, its platform builds a digital model of an organisation’s operations by integrating assets, processes, and systems. It can detect potential issues before they arise and either recommend or automatically execute the most effective response.
The company said its technology is designed for industries that require fast and reliable decision-making.
Deena Shakir, Partner at Lux Capital, said 1001 is developing advanced AI solutions in one of the world’s fastest-growing technology markets.
“They are demonstrating that AI for critical infrastructure can be built, managed, and governed locally rather than depending on technologies developed elsewhere,” she said.
A spokesperson for Sanabil Investments said the GCC is making significant investments in data, computing, and infrastructure, driving strong demand for trusted AI solutions developed within the region.
The company plans to use the new funding to expand its engineering capabilities, scale its sales and marketing teams, and strengthen its presence across the GCC.
1001 already employs experts from leading global institutions, including Yale, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon University, and has attracted backing from several regional and international investors since its launch.
