Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – April 8, 2025 — STUCK?, a rising AI-powered language intelligence platform based in Saudi Arabia, has closed its pre-seed funding round, raising a high six-figure investment to accelerate the development of Arabic-focused AI language solutions. The round was led by UK-based Mena Tech Fund (MTF), marking the VC’s first investment in the Kingdom.
Founded by Asmaa Naga, STUCK? is redefining how businesses approach Arabic content creation by blending artificial intelligence with deep cultural insight. The startup offers flexible language solutions—fully AI, fully human, or a hybrid model—enabling enterprises to craft culturally nuanced messaging at scale.
The funding round also saw participation from KAUST Innovation Fund and a strong cohort of Saudi angel investors, including Maha Taibah, founder of RUMMAN, and Basma Bushnak, co-founder and CEO of Emkan Education (now part of PwC). Additional support came through a syndicate led by Oqal. Previous backers include 500 Global (Sanabil) and STUCK?’s victory at the 2024 Taqadam Accelerator Program, further solidifying its growing momentum.
“STUCK? is not just a translation tool—it’s a language intelligence powerhouse,” said founder and CEO Asmaa Naga. “Our platform is purpose-built for Arabic and its dialects, bridging the gap between AI speed and human precision to deliver content that doesn’t just translate—but truly resonates.”
From Designer Bag to Tech Platform
The inspiration for STUCK? came from an unlikely place. Instead of purchasing a luxury handbag, Naga chose to invest her savings into building a platform that could tackle one of the region’s biggest tech challenges—Arabic language localization.
With a Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Oxford and over a decade of teaching experience, Naga recognized the limitations of existing tools. STUCK? was born out of her vision to develop AI solutions tailored for Arabic speakers, infused with human linguistic nuance.
Strategic Growth Ahead
The newly raised funds will be directed toward:
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Advancing proprietary AI models, specifically tuned for Arabic and regional dialects.
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Expanding into additional languages, with Chinese next on the roadmap to broaden cross-market capabilities.
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Developing secure, on-premise AI localization tools for enterprises seeking privacy-compliant language solutions.
STUCK? has already secured major corporate clients, including a key Saudi Giga Project, and continues to position itself as the go-to language partner for high-impact initiatives in the region.
A Women-Led Tech Powerhouse
STUCK? is also making waves for its leadership. The company boasts a 93% female workforce, a rarity in the AI space, especially in the MENA region. The executive team includes:
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Asmaa Naga, Founder & CEO
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Tasneem Islam, Partner & Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)
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Hossam Ahmed, Partner & Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Their mission extends beyond technology—STUCK? is reshaping the landscape of women in tech, with a focus on culturally inclusive innovation.
About STUCK?
STUCK? is a next-generation language intelligence platform that delivers culturally relevant, high-precision content in Arabic and English. Trusted by consultancies, marketing agencies, educational institutions, and government initiatives, STUCK? is redefining how organizations communicate across cultures.
For more information, visit stucktheapp.com.
