Merak Capital’s gaming accelerator, Exel by Merak, has appointed Faisal Sedrani as its new chief executive officer. Sedrani will lead the accelerator’s next stage of development, overseeing its expansion beyond gaming into a broader multi-sector innovation strategy that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Sedrani has been a central figure in Exel’s development, having led its establishment as a Merak Capital subsidiary and managed the accelerator’s startup growth initiatives. Since 2024, he has also served as vice president of Merak Capital’s innovation platform, supervising programmes aimed at scaling growth and supporting emerging companies in high-potential sectors.
Broadening the Accelerator’s Focus
While Exel by Merak is known for its work in the gaming industry, the organisation is now shifting toward a more diversified approach to innovation. The accelerator aims to empower entrepreneurs across multiple sectors, using its experience in digital and startup acceleration to build sustainable ecosystems. This expansion reflects a strategic effort to create long-term value within the Kingdom’s innovation landscape.
Sedrani’s experience outside gaming includes co-founding Smart Deer Co in 2022, where he focuses on environmental and smart technology solutions, particularly desert restoration projects. His work involves cross-functional teams in robotics, IoT, and environmental science, collaborating with local communities to implement practical ecosystem solutions.
Ongoing Accelerator Programmes
Exel by Merak continues to run its accelerator programmes, supporting startups at different stages of growth. Cohort 2 recently graduated, and Cohort 3 is scheduled to start later this year. These programmes are designed to provide mentoring, funding opportunities, and strategic guidance to emerging entrepreneurs, reinforcing the accelerator’s role in developing Saudi Arabia’s innovation ecosystem.
Sedrani commented on his appointment, stating, “After leading the company over the past year, this step reflects our direction and focus on building real value in the innovation ecosystem. Grateful for the trust and the team behind the work. Looking ahead to what we'll build next.”
Source: PocketGamer
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Faisal Sedrani?
Faisal Sedrani is the newly appointed CEO of Exel by Merak. He previously led Exel’s establishment as a Merak Capital subsidiary and serves as vice president of Merak Capital’s innovation platform.
What is Exel by Merak?
Exel by Merak is a Saudi Arabia-based accelerator owned by Merak Capital. Originally focused on gaming, it is expanding to support multi-sector innovation in line with Vision 2030.
What sectors will Exel by Merak focus on now?
The accelerator is broadening its focus beyond gaming to include multiple high-potential sectors, including technology, environmental solutions, and digital innovation.
What is the role of the accelerator programmes?
Exel’s accelerator programmes provide mentoring, funding, and guidance to startups, helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses and contribute to the Kingdom’s innovation ecosystem.
When will the next accelerator cohort begin?
Cohort 3 of Exel by Merak’s accelerator programme is scheduled to begin later this year, following the recent graduation of Cohort 2.
