Which Asian company secured double funding on Shark Tank Dubai Season 2? Details explored

Shark Tank Dubai, the UAE’s version of the popular entrepreneurial reality show, provides a stage for startups to pitch their ideas and get investments from mentors known as 'sharks.' The second season premiered on October 10, 2024. Amira Sajwani, Elie Khouri, and Faisal Juma Belhoul are the mentors from the first season who will continue into this season.

In season 2 of Shark Tank Dubai, DRNK, a sustainability-focused brand founded by Mishal and Yasir Chaudhry, made history by earning double the funding they initially requested. The couple showcased their innovative water bottle, designed to tackle single-use plastic waste. The bottle is sleek, compact, and eco-friendly, offering a practical solution for people who value both convenience and style.

DRNK bottles are built to fit neatly into handbags, laptop bags, and even diaper bags. They include features like leak-proof lids, thermal insulation, and a durable neoprene sleeve for protection.

In addition to its functional design, DRNK promotes environmental responsibility through its partnership with Ecologi, an organization focused on reforestation and climate action. For every bottle sold, a tree is planted, furthering their mission to reduce plastic waste and support sustainability.

---

Mishal and Yasir's pitch and the funding deal in Shark Tank Dubai

Mishal and Yasir Chaudhry entered Shark Tank Dubai with a proposal to secure AED 500,000 for a 25% equity stake in their company. Their pitch highlighted their water bottle design and commitment to sustainability, impressing the panel of investors.

Advertising mogul Elie Khouri made a counteroffer, providing AED 500,000 and an additional AED 500,000 in marketing support in exchange for a 40% stake in DRNK. The deal not only doubled the financial support they initially sought but also brought Khouri’s marketing expertise and global network to the table.

Discussing their decision, Yasir explained,

"It was a difficult choice, as we deeply admire all the sharks. However, we believe Elie’s extensive marketing experience will help us achieve our goal of transforming water consumption worldwide."

The co-founders saw the increased equity share as a trade-off for expanding their brand's reach in Shark Tank Dubai. According to the couple, the partnership with Khouri positioned DRNK to accelerate its mission of promoting sustainable hydration solutions and reducing single-use plastic waste.

---

Sustainability in DRNK’s bottles, as highlighted on Shark Tank Dubai

The company has partnered with Ecologi to plant a tree for every bottle sold, showing its commitment to environmental preservation. Additionally, DRNK uses recycled materials for packaging and participates in initiatives like beach cleanups and environmental education to further its eco-friendly mission.

The brand’s water bottles are available in BPA-free Tritan plastic and stainless steel, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences. These bottles are designed with features like leak-proof lids, thermal insulation, and a sleek body, making them suitable for both individual users and corporate clients.

Customization options, including laser etching and digital printing, provide businesses with a sustainable solution for branding needs. Co-founder Mishal stated,

"Our aim is to make hydration simple and sustainable without compromising convenience. With the slimmest steel water bottle in the world, we hope to inspire people to reduce plastic waste and make conscious choices."

Yasir, the co-founder of DRNK, explained that while they recognized the potential to learn from the other investors, their primary focus was on transforming global water consumption. He added that they needed a partner like Elie, whose extensive network could help them market their products globally.

---

Viewers can watch Shark Tank Dubai season 2 on OSN+ and Apple TV.