AJi x parachute16: A Strategic MoU to Build Saudi Arabia’s First Private-Sector-Led PropTech Innovation Accelerator

AJi and parachute16 | برشوت16 have entered a new strategic partnership that aims to reshape the future of PropTech and innovation in Saudi Arabia. Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the two organizations will collaborate to launch the Kingdom’s first private-sector-led PropTech accelerator, a program built to empower founders transforming the future of construction, real estate, sustainability, and the built environment.

The agreement was signed during CityScape Global 2025, the region’s flagship real estate event aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. This MoU represents the shared belief of both organizations that PropTech is becoming a defining force in the Kingdom’s urban transformation. As Saudi Arabia accelerates its shift toward smart, resilient, and digitally enabled cities, there is a growing need for founders who can deliver innovative solutions across construction, mobility, sustainability, facility management, and real estate technology.

AJi brings over six decades of industry leadership to the partnership. Headquartered in Riyadh and operating across 25 markets with a team of 1,400 professionals, AJi has played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s architectural and engineering landscape through human-centric design, sustainable development, and large-scale infrastructure transformation.

parachute16, established in 2016 and also headquartered in Riyadh, operates across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and the GCC as a regional startup and entrepreneurship ecosystem enabler. parachute16 specializes in scaling startups, unlocking access to investment, forging high-impact B2B and commercial partnerships, and enabling Saudi and regional startups to expand globally, and global startups to land and grow into the region through a diverse range of A-level programs and ecosystem engagement activities.

Together, this partnership will create a platform that does more than mentor startups, it will connect founders directly to real-world industry challenges, pilot opportunities, and a strong regional network of clients, investors, and ecosystem partners to scale.

Startups selected for the future accelerator will gain access to: • On-ground pilot opportunities across AJi’s active projects • Technical and industry expertise from AJi’s specialists • Structured accelerator curriculum and workshops by parachute16 • Regional and international innovation networks • Investor introductions spanning VCs, family offices, and global angel groups • Potential co-investment opportunities • Direct pathways to market readiness and scalability

As stated by Eng.Hamzeh Awwad , CEO of AJi Group:

“The AJi PropTech Accelerator will position the Kingdom as a true launchpad for scalable PropTech ventures. Startups won’t just receive mentorship — they’ll gain access to our real-world projects, technical expertise, and market network across more than 20 countries. Through pilot opportunities and direct engagement with industry partners, investors, and clients, we’re creating a platform that turns innovative ideas into investable, market-ready ventures.”

Ghassan Halawa غسّان حلاوه , Founder & CEO of parachute16, emphasized:

“What sets this accelerator apart is the depth of support we’re providing. Founders will gain access to structured workshops, expert-led sessions, and parachute16’s regional and international innovation platforms—combined with AJi’s unparalleled industry access. Beyond program content, participants will be connected to our extensive regional and global network of leading B2B companies and investors, opening doors for commercial opportunities, investment, and scalable growth. This partnership also creates pathways for mutual investment in promising ventures, driving market readiness, scalability, and long-term impact”

Under the MoU, AJi and parachute16 will exchange expertise, support innovation-driven companies, and collaborate on events and ecosystem initiatives that strengthen the PropTech landscape in Saudi Arabia.

This collaboration marks a significant step in positioning Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for PropTech innovation, where the private sector, global entrepreneurship expertise, and national development priorities come together to drive long-term economic and urban impact.