Emirates Growth Fund (EGF) has made a significant move in the UAE's food industry by investing AED 45 million in CarniStore, the leading premium protein provider in the nation. Announced on March 30, 2026, this investment is a strategic step for EGF as it marks its first entry into the food sector, demonstrating a commitment to support the growth of local enterprises.
Since its founding in 2018, CarniStore has established a strong presence in the UAE’s premium protein market by fusing traditional butchery expertise with a consumer-focused digital strategy. EGF's funding is intended to enhance CarniStore's scale and support its expansion into new product lines, as well as strengthen its position as a benchmark for quality within the UAE's food industry.
“EGF’s investment in CarniStore reflects our mandate to support high-potential UAE businesses within the ‘missing middle’ through strategic capital and active partnership,” said Khalifa Al Hajeri, CEO of Emirates Growth Fund.
Through this partnership, EGF aims to not only inject growth capital but also to work closely with CarniStore’s founders to bolster governance and institutional capabilities. This collaboration will drive CarniStore's long-term ambitions and strengthen its role within the UAE’s economic framework.
Fikry “Fix” Boutros, Co-CEO & Co-Founder of CarniStore, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “This partnership with EGF feels like a natural next step in our journey. We share a belief in building strong, homegrown businesses with a long-term vision and real foundations.”
Daniel “Dan” Wanies, Co-CEO & Co-Founder, also noted, “EGF’s strategic backing allows us to scale CarniStore with real intention, growing our operations and developing new products while protecting the premium quality and service our customers rely on.”
EGF’s strategic involvement is designed to leverage CarniStore’s entrepreneurial spirit while facilitating its institutional maturity, anticipating further advancements in the UAE’s premium food market landscape.
For more information, CarniStore can be reached at:
CarniStore
Dubai, UAE
+971 58 123 4567
info@carnistore.ae
