Company Profile: Hafla
Background
Hafla, founded in 2021 and headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is a pioneering event-tech company that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) with human expertise to revolutionize event planning. The company's mission is to inspire and enable everyone to celebrate more by transforming complex planning processes into seamless, joyful experiences. Hafla's vision is to create a world where celebrations are accessible to all, making event planning easy and enjoyable.
Key Strategic Focus
Hafla's strategic focus centers on leveraging AI to streamline event planning, offering personalized solutions for various events, including corporate gatherings, weddings, and social celebrations. The company specializes in aggregating a vast network of venues, equipment, services, and catering options, providing a one-stop solution for event organizers. Key technologies utilized include AI-powered ideation, recommendation systems, and an integrated marketplace that connects clients with a wide array of vetted partners. Primary markets targeted are the United Arab Emirates and the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Financials and Funding
As of January 2026, Hafla has not publicly disclosed specific details regarding its funding history, total funds raised, or notable investors. The company operates in the seed stage and is part of the Hub71 incubator in Abu Dhabi, which supports startups in the MENA region.
Pipeline Development
Hafla's pipeline development focuses on expanding its AI capabilities and enhancing its marketplace offerings. The company continually updates its platform to improve user experience, integrate new service providers, and refine its AI algorithms for better event personalization. Specific timelines for anticipated milestones are not publicly available.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Hafla's technological platform is distinguished by its proprietary AI engine, which collaborates with human planners to deliver personalized event solutions. The platform's key components include:
- Mind: An AI co-creator that understands the language of events, including capacities, décor styles, dietary needs, and logistics, transforming vague ideas into detailed plans rapidly.
- Memory: A living knowledge graph built on over 80,000 event briefs, continuously improving recommendations through data-driven insights.
- Muscle: An on-ground execution engine that orchestrates sourcing, negotiations, schedules, and logistics, ensuring flawless event execution.
This integrated system enables efficient planning cycles, transparent pricing, and high-quality outcomes.
Leadership Team
Hafla was founded by Siddharth Khasgiwala and Vaibhav Doshi, both of whom serve as key decision-makers within the company. Siddharth is a passionate tech builder with experience in mapping, edtech, and AI applications in events, while Vaibhav is a curious problem solver with a background in technology and entrepreneurship.
Market Insights and Dynamics
The event planning industry is a $1 trillion global market, characterized by complexity and fragmentation. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a population exceeding 600 million, presents significant opportunities for growth and innovation in event management.
Competitor Analysis
Hafla operates in a competitive landscape with several key players:
- Eventbrite: A global platform for event management and ticketing, offering tools for event creation, promotion, and ticket sales.
- Bizzabo: An event success platform that provides solutions for event marketing, management, and attendee engagement.
- Social Tables: A collaborative event planning platform specializing in diagramming, seating, and event management.
These competitors offer various services that overlap with Hafla's offerings, such as event planning, venue booking, and vendor management.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Hafla has established partnerships with over 3,200 vetted service providers and 300 premium venues across the UAE, creating a comprehensive marketplace that enhances its service offerings and market reach.
Operational Insights
Hafla differentiates itself through its AI-driven platform, which streamlines event planning by automating data-intensive tasks and providing personalized recommendations. This approach reduces planning time, enhances decision-making, and improves overall event quality, offering a competitive advantage in the market.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Hafla's strategic roadmap includes expanding its AI capabilities, enhancing user experience, and broadening its service provider network. The company aims to scale its operations regionally and potentially globally, leveraging its technological platform to capture a larger share of the event planning market.
Contact Information
- Website: hafla.com
- Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
