Yalla : 2025 Environmental, Social and Governance Report-EN
YALA
Published on 04/22/2026 at 10:39 pm EDT
https://www.yalla.com
ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL & GOVERNANCE REPORT
YALLA GROUP LIMITED (NYSE: YALA)
02 About this Report 04 About Yalla Group 08 Letter from Our CEO
09 Letter from Our President
10 Responsible Governance
12 Corporate Governance
19 ESG Governance
28 Environment
30 Yalla's Response to Climate Change
33 Green Office
36 Trust
38 Information Security
44 Supply Chain Management
45 Intellectual Property
46 Our People
48 Diversity, Equality and Inclusion
50 Employee Attraction
51 Employee Training and Development
53 Employee Care
56 Our Community
58 Yalla Community
61 Appendix
Appendix 1
Appendix 2
Appendix 3
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2025 Environmental,
Social and Governance Report
About this Report
About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance
Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 03
Yalla Group Limited ("Yalla", the "Company" or "we") is proud to present our fifth Environmental, Social and Governance Report (the "Report") for the year 2025 to highlight our corporate vision beyond financial achievements.
This report aims to offer stakeholders a clear, transparent, and comprehensive review of our sustainability performance. The content of the Report has been defined through a meticulous materiality process involving all stakeholders, which is explained in detail in the body of the Report.
For any comments or suggestions related to the Report, please contact us via email at [email protected]. We look forward to receiving your valuable input.
YEAR
The Report covers our environmental, social, and governance performance for the year 2025. We have published the Report on a yearly basis since 2021.
COMPARABLE DATA
Some disclosures showcase performance across the years 2025 and 2024, highlighting significant developments.
GRI ACCORDANCE
The Report has been prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards.
ALIGNMENTS
The Report also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Task Force on Climate-Related
Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework.
MONETARY VALUES
Unless otherwise stated, all monetary values in the Report are
expressed in U.S. dollars.
CONTACT POINT
Readers and all stakeholders can find the English
and Arabic versions of the Report at our official website (https://www.yalla.com/).
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Social and Governance Report
About this Report
About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 05
Mission
Provide localized online social networking and entertainment activities
Yalla Group Limited is the largest MENA-based online social networking and gaming company in terms of revenue in 2022.
Vision
Build the largest destination for online social networking
and entertainment activities in MENA1
Values
Multicultural Understanding, User First, Simple, and Target
We operate two flagship mobile applications, Yalla, a voice-centric group chat platform, and Yalla Ludo, a casual gaming application featuring online versions of board games, popular in MENA, with in-game voice chat and localized Majlis functionality.
Building on the success of Yalla and Yalla Ludo, we continue to add engaging new content, creating a regionally focused, integrated ecosystem dedicated to fulfilling MENA users' evolving online social networking and gaming needs.
Through its holding subsidiary, Yalla Game Limited, we have expanded our capabilities in mid-core and hard-core games in the MENA region, leveraging our local expertise to bring innovative gaming content to users.
In addition, our growing Yalla ecosystem includes YallaChat, an IM product tailored for Arabic users, WeMuslim, a product that supports Arabic users in observing their customs, and casual games such as Yalla Baloot and 101 Okey Yalla, developed to sustain vibrant local gaming communities in MENA. We are also exploring outside of MENA with Yalla Parchis, a Ludo game designed for the South American markets.
Our mobile applications deliver a seamless experience that fosters a sense of loyalty and belonging, establishing highly devoted and engaged user communities through close attention to detail and localized appeal that profoundly resonates with users.
1 MENA refers to the Middle East and North Africa region, including Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malta, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, Western Sahara, Yemen and others, in total 21 countries. Data source: The World Bank & Wikipedia.
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About this Report
About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 07
Our Integrated Ecosystem
Social
Yalla
Voice-centric group chatting
YallaChat
IM product tailored for Arabic users
WeMuslim
Supports Muslim users in observing their customs
Casual Games
Yalla Ludo
MENA casual games + social networking
Yalla Baloot & Hand
Saudi Arabian card game
101 Okey Yalla
Turkish board game
Turbo Match
Match-3 featuring vehicle customization theme
Yalla Parchis
South American Ludo
exploring opportunities overseas
Boom Survivor
Rogue-like game
Mid-Core & Hard-Core Games
More to come
More to come
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Social and Governance Report
About this Report
About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 09
Welcome to Yalla Group's 2025 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report.
I am pleased to present Yalla Group's 2025 ESG Report, which highlights our steadfast commitment to sustainability, innovation, and responsible growth.
It is my honor to share our continued progress and achievements over the past year as we remain firmly committed to sustainability, innovation,
and social responsibility. This report reflects our ongoing dedication to creating lasting value for our shareholders, the communities we serve, and the planet we share.
2025 represented another year of purposeful advancement for Yalla Group. Amid a dynamic global environment, we stayed true to our mission of connecting people and enriching lives through our innovative social ecosystems and gaming platforms across the MENA region, delivering steady growth while maintaining responsible business practices.
Sustainability remains central to our long-term strategy. We advanced our environmental initiatives by further integrating energy-efficient technologies across operations and increasing our reliance on renewable energy sources, taking meaningful steps on our path toward carbon neutrality. We continued to expand paperless office practices and digital approval workflows, significantly cutting paper consumption and enhancing efficiency. Through ongoing internal campaigns and workshops,
we have strengthened a culture of resource conservation, encouraging every employee to embrace sustainable habits both at work and in daily life.
We have also deepened the integration of artificial intelligence across intelligent customer service, product development, and testing processes. By automating routine tasks and optimizing resource
use, AI has helped us reduce energy consumption and minimize waste while improving overall productivity - demonstrating how responsible innovation can support both business excellence and a greener future.
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion continues to strengthen. With team members from multiple countries contributing unique perspectives, we have reinforced policies that promote equal opportunities for career growth and professional development, ensuring an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Our sustained commitment to ESG has also indirectly fueled business innovation and earned meaningful industry recognition. In 2025, we were honored with the GOLD Stevie® Award for Innovation in Entertainment Apps and the Middle East Technology Excellence Awards 2025. These accolades serve as powerful validation of how our focus on responsible and sustainable practices drives both positive societal impact and longterm business success, further strengthening our
confidence and resolve to continue investing in ESG initiatives.
Looking ahead, we are energized by the opportunities before us. We will keep innovating with purpose, collaborating closely with stakeholders, and leading responsibly to create positive, enduring impact.
Thank you for your continued trust and support. Together, we will build an even brighter tomorrow.
Best regards,
Tao YANG,
Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer
This report captures our efforts to generate longterm value for all stakeholders while addressing key environmental, social, and governance priorities.
As the leading online social networking and gaming company in the MENA region, we recognize the importance of operating in ways that respect our communities and the environment.
Cultural respect and community engagement remain at the heart of our mission. We continued to celebrate regional traditions through activities during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, while organizing offline gaming tournaments and events across countries and cities. These initiatives foster belonging, promote equal access to digital entertainment, and support the development of the internet ecosystem in underserved areas.
In line with our focus on social responsibility across the MENA region, we partnered with the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) to launch internship programs dedicated to cultivating AI talent among local students and young professionals. This collaboration contributes directly to talent development and technological advancement in the region. Complementing these efforts, we expanded our regional presence by opening a new office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, further deepening our ties with local communities and reinforcing our contributions to talent growth, technological progress, and environmental initiatives throughout the MENA region.
On the environmental front, we made further progress in reducing our ecological footprint
through expanded adoption of energy-efficient technologies, sustainable practices, and resource conservation. We also continued to prioritize employee well-being with programs focused on mental health support, work-life balance, and flexible arrangements that empower our team to deliver their best.
In 2025, we further strengthened our cybersecurity and user data protection measures, maintaining full adherence to MENA regulations. Our robust information security framework - supported by advanced encryption, firewalls, and AI-driven tools - safeguards user privacy at every stage of data handling, building greater trust in our platforms.
Governance remains a core pillar of our operations. We continued to enhance risk management frameworks, uphold the highest ethical standards, and improve transparency and accountability.
Through active stakeholder dialogue, we have refined our approaches to meet evolving expectations and solidify our role as a responsible corporate citizen.
Looking ahead, we are excited to leverage technology in support of a more inclusive and sustainable future. The MENA region's digital transformation offers tremendous potential, and we remain determined to lead by example in our industry.
Thank you to all our stakeholders for your ongoing trust and partnership. Together, we will continue building a brighter, more equitable future.
Best regards,
Saifi ISMAIL
Director and President
Yalla Group is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and ensuring full compliance to all applicable laws and regulations. To this end, we have established a robust governance framework encompassing corporate governance, risk management, business ethics, and sustainable procurement. We are also steadily enhancing our capacity to fulfill social responsibilities and advance ESG governance, with a commitment to safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders.
12 2025 Environmental, About this Report About Yalla Group
Social and Governance Report
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 13
The functions and powers of our Board of Directors include, among others:
GOVERNANCE MECHANISM
We are a Cayman Islands holding company and conduct our operations mainly through operating subsidiaries in the United Arab Emirates and China. We strictly abide by the applicable laws and regulations of the countries and regions we operate in.
At the same time, as the first Emirati technology company listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), we also comply with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulatory requirements and the NYSE for listed companies.
BOARD AND BOARD COMMITTEES
Yalla is dedicated to fostering a corporate governance framework built on openness, transparency, and operational efficiency. As of 2025, our Board comprises seven members, including four independent directors and three executive directors. Independent directors represent 57.1% of the total Board composition. This structure plays a critical role in maintaining effective checks and balances, safeguarding shareholder interests, and ensuring the Company's long-term integrity.
We also place a strong emphasis on Board diversity as a cornerstone of sound governance. Our director selection process considers multiple dimensions, including professional backgrounds, technical expertise, gender, age, cultural heritage, and education. Each director contributes profound industry insights and specialized expertise from fields such as finance, information technology, and communications. Their diverse perspectives and professional strengths enable more informed, innovative, and balanced decision-making, which drives the Company's strategic success.
Formulating and overseeing the implementation of the group's goals, mission, strategies, policies, and business plan;
Establishing appropriate risk management policies to prevent, address, and respond to risks;
Implementing strong accounting and financial reporting systems, as well as adequate internal controls;
Formulating annual financial budget and monitoring the operational and financial performance;
Board Changes in 2025
The Board of Directors' composition and size remained unchanged during 2025. The stability of the Board ensures the effectiveness of corporate governance.
Supervising the process of nominating and electing board members;
Appointing senior executives;
Providing timely and accurate disclosure and communication to all relevant stakeholders;
Creating and sanctioning policies related to corporate social responsibility and corporate governance measures;
Monitoring the effectiveness of the compensation structure and ensuring that employees' interests are properly coordinated.
Board Committees
Our Board of Directors has established three specialized committees: the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee, and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. These committees are responsible for overseeing key areas of corporate
governance and providing professional advice to support the Board's strategic decision-making.
Below is a summary of our Committee and Membership structure.
Committee
Audit Committee Compensation
Tao Yang
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
Saifi Ismail
Jianfeng Xu Saeed Al Hamli
Independent Director
Mohamed Al Ghanim
Independent Director
David Cui
Independent Director
Lili Xu
Independent Director
Chair Member
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About Yalla Group
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Our People
Our Community Appendix 15
Audit Committee
Our Audit Committee consists of Mr. David Cui, Ms. Lili Xu and Mr. Saeed Al Hamli. Mr. David Cui is the chairperson of our Audit Committee. Mr. David Cui satisfies the criteria of an Audit Committee financial expert as set forth under the applicable rules of the SEC. Each of Mr. David Cui, Ms. Lili Xu and Mr. Saeed Al Hamli satisfies the requirements for an "independent director" within the meaning of Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual and will meet the criteria for independence set forth in Rule 10A-3 of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act.
Compensation Committee
Our Compensation Committee consists of Mr. Tao Yang, Mr. Jianfeng Xu and Mr. David Cui. Mr. Tao Yang is the chairperson of our Compensation Committee. Mr. David Cui satisfies the requirements for an "independent director" within the meaning of Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual.
Our Compensation Committee is responsible for, among other things:
The Audit Committee oversees our accounting and financial reporting processes and the audits of our financial statements. Our Audit Committee is responsible for, among other things:
Reviewing, evaluating and, if necessary, revising our overall compensation policies;
Reviewing and evaluating the performance of our
Setting performance targets for our senior officers with respect to our incentive -compensation plan and equity-based compensation plans;
Selecting the independent auditor;
Pre-approving auditing and non-auditing services permitted to be performed by the independent auditor;
Annually reviewing the independent auditor's report describing the auditing firm's internal quality control procedures, any material issues
Reviewing with management and the independent auditors the effect of regulatory and accounting initiatives, as well as off-balance sheet structures, on our financial statements;
Discussing policies with respect to risk assessment and risk management with management, internal auditors and the independent auditor;
directors and senior officers and determining the compensation of our senior officers;
Reviewing and approving our senior officers' employment agreements with us;
Administering our equity-based compensation plans in accordance with the terms thereof; and such other matters that are specifically delegated to the remuneration committee by our board of directors from time to time.
raised by the most recent internal quality control review, or peer review, of the independent auditors and all relationships between the independent auditor and our company;
Setting clear hiring policies for employees and former employees of the independent auditors;
Reviewing with the independent auditor any audit problems or difficulties and management's response;
Reviewing and, if material, approving all related party transactions on an ongoing basis;
Timely reviewing reports from the independent auditor regarding all critical accounting policies and practices to be used by our company, all alternative treatments of financial information within u.S. Gaap that have been discussed with management and all other material written communications between the independent auditor and management;
Establishing procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received from
our employees regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters and
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
Our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee consists of Mr. Tao Yang, Mr. Saifi Ismail and Mr. Mohamed Al Ghanim. Mr. Tao Yang is the chairperson of our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Mr.
Mohamed Al Ghanim satisfies the requirements for an "independent director" within the meaning of Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will assist the Board of Directors in selecting individuals qualified to become our directors and in determining the composition of the Board and its committees.
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will be responsible for, among other things:
Reviewing and discussing the annual audited financial statements with management and the independent auditor;
Reviewing and discussing with management and the independent auditors major issues regarding accounting principles and financial statement presentations;
Reviewing reports prepared by management or the independent auditors relating to significant financial reporting issues and judgments;
Discussing earnings press releases with management, as well as financial information and earnings guidance provided to analysts and rating agencies;
the confidential, anonymous submission by our employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters;
Annually reviewing and reassessing the adequacy of our audit committee charter;
Such other matters that are specifically delegated to our audit committee by our board of directors from time to time;
Meeting separately, periodically, with management, internal auditors and the independent auditor; and
Reporting regularly to the full board of directors.
Selecting and recommending to the board
nominees for election by the shareholders or appointment by the board;
Reviewing annually with the board the current composition of the board with regards to characteristics such as independence, knowledge, skills, experience and diversity;
Making recommendations on the frequency and
structure of board meetings and monitoring the functioning of the committees of the board;
Advising the board periodically with regards to significant developments in the law and
practice of corporate governance as well as our compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and making recommendations to the board on all matters of corporate governance and on any remedial action to be taken.
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About this Report
About Yalla Group
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Our People
Our Community Appendix 17
RISK MANAGEMENT
Effective risk management and robust internal monitoring systems are pivotal to the achievement of our strategic objectives. We maintain a comprehensive risk management and internal control framework, under the oversight and guidance of the Board of Directors, to ensure full awareness and effective mitigation of business risks across the organization.
Risk Management System
CODE OF BUSINESS CONDUCT AND ETHICS
We prioritize full compliance with all applicable legal requirements and cultivate a corporate culture anchored in integrity and self-governance, which forms the cornerstone of our business operations. Our goal is to integrate ethical standards seamlessly into every aspect of our internal and external activities, thereby building and sustaining a transparent, trustworthy, and reputable corporate environment.
Our Code of Conduct applies to all employees across every level of Yalla Group, including directors, executives, and subsidiaries. External parties such as consultants, contractors, and other parties acting on the Company's behalf
The Board of Directors bears ultimate responsibility for risk management and internal control.
The Audit Committee provides supervision
At Yalla, the Internal Audit and Compliance team is responsible for identifying and evaluating internal and external risks across the Company and its various departments. Simultaneously, the
management team focuses on enhancing risk
are also required to align their conduct with the principles set forth in this Code. The Code defines clear standards for professional and ethical conduct, specifying permissible and impermissible practices in both internal workflows and external interaction, including:
and guidance in the development and implementation of the internal control and audit system.
Risk Assessment Process
The Internal Audit and Compliance team performs in-depth risk assessments to pinpoint potential risks and collaborates with relevant
mitigation measures to elevate the Company's overall risk management capabilities.
Furthermore, the team is responsible for preparing an annual work report to be submitted to both the Audit Committee and Senior
Compliance with laws, regulations, and policies
Conflicts of interest
Corporate opportunities
Corporate assets and confidential information
Competition and fair dealing
Gifts and entertainment
Company records
Accuracy of financial reports and other public communications
Prohibition of insider trading
Public communications and prevention of selective disclosure
Environment
Harassment and discrimination
departments to develop appropriate control measures. Drawing on these assessment outcomes, the team formulates the scope and details of the annual work plan, which is then reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee.
Management. These plans and reports highlight priority focus areas, summarize key findings, and offer actionable recommendations.
RISK
For Yalla Group's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, please visit:
https://ir.yalla.com/Corporate-Governance
Implementation and enforcement of the Code
We remain firmly committed to upholding the Code of Conduct and nurturing a culture of integrity and ethical decision-making throughout the organization. By providing a secure, encouraging, and supportive environment, we empower employees to raise ethical concerns without fear. We maintain robust monitoring and reporting mechanisms, including a reliable third-party reporting platform that ensures full confidentiality, enables anonymous reporting options, and strictly prohibits any form of retaliation. These measures establish trustworthy and effective communication channels that safeguard the anonymity and security of individuals who report potential issues.
To further strengthen our adaptive risk management framework in 2025, we dynamically adjusted the audit scope in response to evolving internal business priorities. We applied more comprehensive audit procedures to select key projects and advanced the standardization, process efficiency, and governance of audit practices in these areas, thereby enhancing proactive risk identification, more effective mitigation, and overall control robustness to support sustained operational resilience.
To ensure employees fully understand and apply the Code in their daily responsibilities, we continue to conduct the Ethics and Compliance Training Program on a regular basis. All directors, officers, and employees receive annual training on the Code, with ongoing sessions and active oversight helping to keep staff informed of its requirements and to reinforce consistent adherence to its standards.
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About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 19
SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT
We integrate sustainability criteria into our procurement decision-making and select suppliers through a fully transparent and impartial process.
We uphold and oversee supply chain integrity through three core pillars of governance.
System Establishment
We have developed and maintained the System for the Management of Commercial Procurement, which clearly outlines procurement conduct standards. This includes strict prohibitions on kickbacks and bribes, as well as mandatory requirements for employees to avoid any form of economic entanglement with suppliers. We have also implemented role segregation throughout the procurement lifecycle, establishing a clear governance structure where each role undertakes distinct responsibilities, bears corresponding accountability, and functions with mutual checks and balances.
Process Control
The aforementioned Management System mandates decentralized governance across the entire procurement workflow, including request approval, order application approval, contract approval, and purchase acceptance, among other procedures. Furthermore, employees across different departments and level of seniority are assigned responsibilities that align with their respective professional expertise and operational roles.
Contract Constraints
We have integrated anti-commercial bribery provisions into contracts to deter unfair business competition, while maintaining a dedicated feedback mailbox to solicit input and concerns from our supply chain partners.
The compliance team's email address ([email protected]) is clearly specified in all critical contracts. We explicitly stipulate that if any party or employee identifies conduct that may constitute commercial bribery under applicable laws and regulations, they are obligated to report the matter to this email address or take other lawful measures based on the specific circumstances.
In 2025, we strictly complied with the legal and regulatory requirements related to anti-corruption, and no significant legal cases were raised involving corruption.
A robust ESG governance framework stands as a fundamental cornerstone underpinning Yalla Group's commitment to sustainable development. To ensure the effective execution of its ESG strategy, the Company maintains an ongoing refinement of its ESG governance structure, with the Board of Directors assuming direct responsibility for formulating the Company's overarching ESG governance strategy.
Under the Board's oversight, the ESG Working Group sets annual ESG objectives and core responsibilities, including integrating ESG considerations into the Company's strategic and operational processes, regularly reviewing ESG goals and risk management effectiveness, and providing guidance to departments on ESG initiatives and annual ESG report compilation.
Guided by the Board of Directors, the ESG Working Group implements tailored ESG strategies and actionable initiatives. For the day-to-day management of ESG matters, we have established a comprehensive set of systems and processes to seamlessly integrate ESG principles into the Company's operational, managerial, and decision-making workflows, ensuring the effective fulfillment of our ESG commitments. Meanwhile, we are actively enhancing the Company's ESG governance framework and elevating the overall standards of our ESG governance practices.
Stakeholder Communication
We place a strong emphasis on proactive, inclusive, and ongoing engagement with our diverse stakeholder groups, including employees, shareholders and investors, users, suppliers, business partners, government authorities and regulatory bodies, industry associations, peer companies, local communities, and society at large. We are deeply committed to continually strengthening and diversifying our multi-channel communication approaches to more accurately capture their evolving expectations, concerns, and suggestions regarding our ESG performance and practices.
By systematically integrating these stakeholder insights into our strategic decision-making, we aim to continuously refine our ESG initiatives, strengthen collaborative partnerships, and drive shared value creation that balances economic growth, environmental stewardship, and societal well-being.
Stakeholders
Expectations and Needs
Communication and Feedback
Yalla Group's Stakeholder Communication Mechanism
Employees
Employment and labor practices
Diversity and equal opportunity
Employee benefits and welfare
Career development
Occupational health and safety
Labor contracts
Employee handbook
Employee interviews
Performance evaluations
Education and training
Corporate office automation (OA) platform
Complaint and feedback mailbox
Shareholders and Investors
Financial performance
Compliance management
Anti-corruption measures
Intellectual property protection and technological innovation
General meeting of shareholders
Circulars and announcements
Investor interaction platforms such as the official website
Other regular and irregular communication (telephone calls, emails, etc.)
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About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 21
Users
Suppliers and Partners
Government and Regulatory Agencies
Stakeholders
Expectations and Needs
Communication and Feedback
Information and data security
User privacy protection
User relationship management
Product health and safety
Accessibility to data and services
Responsibility for content
Supply chain management
Anti-corruption measures
Corporate governance
Compliance management
Employee rights and guidelines
Intellectual property protection and technological innovation
Information and data security
Climate change
Resource utilization and pollution prevention
Community investment
Customer services
Other irregular communication (telephone calls, emails, etc.)
On-site audits
Project acceptance and quarterly evaluations
Other irregular communication (telephone calls, emails, etc.)
Regular and irregular communication (telephone calls, emails, etc.)
Case Study
Yalla Group Participating in WN Conference in Abu Dhabi
The WN Conference of 2025 was held in Abu Dhabi on February 11-12, 2025. Mr. Saifi Ismail, the Director and President of Yalla Group, was invited to showcase its experience from a regional startup to a publicly listed tech unicorn. The WN Conference is an exclusive event designed for deal-making, networking, and collaboration with top industry leaders.
During the conference, Saifi delivered a keynote address highlighting Yalla Group's journey from a regional startup to a publicly listed tech unicorn, emphasizing its role in driving innovation, fostering community engagement, and expanding the region's gaming landscape.
Ismail shed light on Yalla's exceptional growth, noting that since its 2020 IPO, the company has achieved a steady rise in revenue and user engagement. As of Q3 2024, Yalla Group recorded over 40 million monthly active users, with an average daily engagement of more than five hours per user. The company also boasts 12 million paying users.
Ismail reaffirmed that Yalla Group is committed to innovation and market expansion, stating: "At Yalla Group, we are driven by a clear vision: to be the premier online destination for social
networking and entertainment in MENA. As we navigate the evolving digital landscape, we remain committed to enhancing the quality of our offerings and expanding our reach, ensuring that we provide the most engaging and culturally resonant experiences for our users."
Industry Associations and Companies in the Same Industry
Financial performance
User relationship management
Intellectual property protection and technological innovation
Exhibitions
Other irregular communication (telephone calls, emails, etc.)
Communities and Society
Community investment
Product health and safety
Charity projects
Other irregular communication (telephone calls, emails, etc.)
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Our Community Appendix 23
Case Study
Yalla Group to open regional head office in Riyadh, expanding presence in Saudi Arabia
On November 8th, 2025, Yalla Group announced a strategic expansion plan in Saudi Arabia where it will soon open a new regional head office in Riyadh. This will be part of Yalla Group's ongoing efforts to expand its footprint and harness the tremendous potential of Saudi Arabia's flourishing digital and entertainment ecosystem.
The regional office will serve as a central hub for managing Yalla Group's operations and partnerships within Saudi Arabia and beyond. It will enable the company to forge closer ties with local stakeholders, develop localized gaming content, and foster collaboration with other players across the Kingdom's rapidly growing entertainment ecosystem. In addition to tapping into the Saudi market, the regional head office is set to create new employment opportunities and nurture local talent.
Meanwhile, Saifi Ismail, President of Yalla Group, said: "The opening of our regional office in Riyadh marks a strategic milestone in Yalla Group's expansion plans in the Saudi market. It demonstrates our commitment to contributing to the development of the Kingdom's advanced digital landscape. Our new office will serve as the core from which we will manage our operations across Saudi Arabia, enabling us to forge stronger partnerships and drive growth within an integrated technology ecosystem that fosters innovation. We aim to work closely with Saudi talent and stakeholders to develop and refine our offerings, ensuring they are in line with the aspirations of local users."
"Yalla Group is set to not only expand its market presence but also to be an active part of the Kingdom's vision for a flourishing digital economy. We are committed to introducing innovative solutions that will not only entertain but also create meaningful connections and vibrant communities in the digital space." Ismail added.
MATERIALITY ASSESSMENT FOR ESG MATTERS
In 2025, we undertook a materiality assessment for ESG matters to pinpoint the most significant sustainability issues aligned with our business priorities and stakeholder expectations. This evaluation drew on our strategic development path, input from diverse stakeholders, insights from external experts, prevailing industry best practices and trends, key domestic and international sustainability frameworks, and relevant ESG indicators from capital market rating agencies.
Going forward, we will maintain an ongoing review and refinement of our ESG topic pool by incorporating perspectives from a wider range of parties, including plans to broaden external stakeholder involvement. These insights will support ongoing enhancements to our business strategies and elevate our performance in environmental, social, and governance areas.
Steps for ESG issue materiality assessment for the Reporting Period:
01 Identification and Screening of ESG Matters
To establish our ESG topic pool, we referred to leading global frameworks including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards, Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) standards, United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and other pertinent domestic and international sustainability frameworks, as well as prevailing industry trends. We also incorporated perspectives from prominent ESG rating agencies such as S&P DJSI (S&P Dow Jones), Refinitiv, and MSCI, combined with our own operational practices, input from external experts, and feedback from a range of stakeholders. Through comprehensive and prudent evaluation, we formed Yalla Group's ESG topic pool for the year.
02 Stakeholder Engagement
We carried out a survey among internal stakeholders using a questionnaire that integrated scoring and checkbox responses, complemented by open and candid discussions with representatives from different departments. Following careful organization, sorting, and analysis of the responses, we finalized the survey outcomes and computed an overall satisfaction score of 4.2 (out of 5) from internal stakeholders concerning Yalla Group's sustainable development initiatives, indicating a notably high level endorsement and continued positive momentum.
03 Confirmation of Material Matters
Building on the questionnaire findings and carefully weighing the importance of each issue to both stakeholders and the Company, we assessed 28 ESG matters and constructed a materiality matrix. This matrix was developed from the viewpoints of "long-term development," "management enhancement," "investment urgency," and "risk management."
Material Matters Assessment Process for Yalla Group's 2025 ESG Report
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About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 25
In 2025, the results of Yalla Group's material matters were as follows:
Yalla Group's 2025 Material ESG Matters
Low Materiality
Medium Materiality
High Materiality
Matrix for Yalla Group's Material Matters
04 Wastewater Discharge
17 Product Health and Safety
14 Development and Training
01 Greenhouse Gas
Emissions
05 Indirect Energy 11 Employment and Labor
Practices
21 Accessibility to Data
and Services
02 Hazardous Waste
10 Diversity and Equal
12
Employee Benefits and
22
Responsibility for
Generation
Opportunity
Welfare
Content
03 Generation of Non-
16 Supply Chain
13
Occupational Health
hazardous Waste
Management
and Safety
23 Growth with Providers
06 Direct Energy 28 Community Investment 15
Employee Rights and Guidelines
25
Promotion and Marketing
07 Water Resources 18
Information and Data Security
26
Anti-corruption Measures
08 Potential Impact of the Environment and
Natural Resources on 19
User Privacy Protection
27
Economic and Social Value of Business
the Company
Activities
24 Intellectual Property Protection and Technological Innovation
5.00
6
8 3
7
2 4
1
9
5
10
28
17
16
23
13
22
24
27
12
14
11
15 21
25
26
19 18 20
High
4.50
Importance to Stakeholders
4.00
3.50
3.00
2.50
2.00
1.50
Low
1.00
1.00
1.50
2.00
2.50
3.00
3.50
4.00
4.50
5.00
09 Climate Change 20 User Relationship
Management
Low
Importance to Yalla's Operations and Management
High
26
2025 Environmental,
Social and Governance Report
About this Report
About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 27
Implementing the Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
In September 2015, the United Nations formally adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, establishing 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focused on areas such as poverty reduction, health, education, and environmental stewardship.This landmark framework calls for unified international cooperation to achieve these shared ambitions over the subsequent 15 years, harnessing collective action to end poverty, protect our planet, and foster lasting peace and prosperity for all.
In 2025, we conducted a comprehensive review to map our business operations against all 17 SDGs. Building on this alignment, we continued to prioritize and implement targeted initiatives across four core goals: Industry,
Goal 9
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Relevant SDGs
Our Actions
We are committed to innovation and to building a rich product system. In 2025, our technology and product development expenses were US$34.3 million, which increased by 18.0% from US$29.0 million in 2024.
We maintain a strict prohibition on child labor and forced labor. We are deeply committed to the
Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9); Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12); Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16); and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). Throughout the year, we actively engaged and collaborated with our stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to these universal objectives and advance sustainable progress.
Yalla Group's Responses to the UN SDGs
Goal 10 Reduced Inequalities
Responsible
principles of equality, inclusion, and diversity, and
we resolutely oppose all forms of discrimination and inequity in our workplace and operations.
We remain dedicated to delivering high-quality, reliable products and services that enhance the overall user
Relevant SDGs
Our Actions
We place the highest priority on the health, safety, and overall well-being of our employees. To safeguard
Goal 12
Consumption and Production
experience. At the same time, we continue to nurture a vibrant, engaged, and positive Yalla community that fosters meaningful interactions among users.
We fully embrace the green office philosophy and actively work to optimize resource consumption,
Goal 3
Good Health and Well-being
their physical and mental wellness, we implement
comprehensive protective measures, including annual health examinations, supplementary medical insurance coverage, and readily available first-aid kits in the workplace.
We are committed to fostering continuous learning and professional growth among our employees.
Through a variety of training formats, channels, and
Goal 13 Climate Action
Goal 15 Life on Land
minimize waste, and promote environmentally sustainable operations and long-term business growth.
We partner with stakeholders at all levels to support broader environmental protection efforts. In 2025, we upheld green operational practices and organized a series of online initiatives within the Yalla Community. These activities aimed to raise awareness and
Goal 4 Quality Education
Goal 5 Gender Equality
platforms, we support skill enhancement, conduct fair and scientific performance evaluations, and provide clear pathways for career progression and development.
We firmly adhere to the principle of gender equality across all aspects of our operations. We actively eliminate any form of gender-based discrimination in recruitment, promotions, compensation, and other employment practices, while ensuring the legitimate rights and interests of female employees are fully
Goal 16
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
encourage users to adopt more environmentally responsible behaviors.
We continuously strengthen our compliance framework and governance practices while upholding the highest standards of business conduct. We enforce a strict zero-tolerance policy toward any form of corruption, bribery, or violation of business ethics.
We actively engage with government bodies and relevant institutions to contribute to the advancement
Goal 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth
protected.
We contribute to local economic vitality by fulfilling our tax obligations and creating quality employment
opportunities. In parallel, we maintain fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory recruitment practices, ensuring equal access to job opportunities for all qualified candidates.
Goal 17 Partnerships for
the Goals
of the UAE's digital economy. A notable example is our ongoing collaboration with the UAE's National Program for Coders initiative, through which we support talent development and digital innovation in the region.
In 2025, Yalla remained steadfast in its commitment to green development principles, further elevating its standard for green operations. By leveraging technological capabilities to drive energy conservation and emission reduction initiatives, the company adopted innovative office models and scientific operational strategies, aiming to minimize the environmental footprint of daily business activities while advancing its sustainable development goals.
30 2025 Environmental, About this Report About Yalla Group
Social and Governance Report
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 31
TRANSITION RISKS
Type Description Countermeasures
To enhance our ability to address climate change effectively, Yalla has conducted scenario analysis in line with the Task Force on Climate-Related
Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations. This analysis identifies key transition risks and physical risks arising from climate change to the Group.
We also evaluate the potential impacts of these climate-related risks on our operations and business performance, and have developed corresponding mitigation measures to lay a solid foundation for the steady and sustainable development of our business.
Policy and Legal
Technology
More stringent obligations
for reporting emissions and requirements for compliance
Failed investments in immature new technologies
Front-End Expenses of Technology Transformation
Achieve meticulous management for each process
of energy use and improve the data collection and disclosure system of carbon emissions.
Before fully considering the compatibility of new technologies with Yalla's business, conduct a thorough evaluation of the new technologies.
Carefully arrange the replacement of new equipment and increase the proportion of renewable energy usage.
Market
Reputation
PHYSICAL RISKS
User's favoring of green principles and environmental conservation ideas
Procurement costs rise
Customer preferences change
Negative public perception of companies' environmental impact
Follow market preferences closely and increase the green and environmental elements in Yalla's products
Consider using clean energy as a criterion when selecting suppliers and maintain an open dialogue with them while keeping costs in check.
Listen to customers in a timely manner and understand their changing preferences. Increase corresponding green products according to their preferences.
Engage with stakeholders to understand their concerns and expectations regarding climate-related risks and the Company's management of these risks. Be transparent about Yalla's climate-related risks and how we plan to manage them.
Type Description Countermeasures
Acute
Chronic
Extreme weather events, natural disasters, and sudden supply chain disruptions
Sea level rise, chronic water shortages, and increased frequency of extreme weather events
Implement the normalization of climate monitoring and make adequate preparations for possible hazards in advance.
Developing a long-term strategy that integrates climate considerations into our business strategy and planning processes.
32
2025 Environmental,
Social and Governance Report
About this Report
About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 33
CLIMATE RISK AND OPPORTUNITY
Yalla is confident that proactive climate change action encompassing both mitigation and adaptation measures will unlock significant business development opportunities. We are actively identifying and seizing these prospects to accelerate the Group's transition toward a green, low-carbon operational model. Our core objective is to harness climate change-driven opportunities to elevate our business and operational management capabilities, while effectively mitigating the corresponding risks.
Type
Description
Countermeasures
Yalla is committed to driving energy conservation, emission reduction and eco-friendly practices across its operations. Through a diverse range of targeted measures, we strive to contribute to a green, low-carbon and sustainable world, with a focus on optimizing resource efficiency, minimizing resource waste and taking proactive action to address climate change.
Transition Opportunities
Emerging market opportunities will stem from ongoing stakeholder focus on climate change, sustainability policies, and the advancement of
eco-friendly products and brands dedicated to ethical business practices.
Boost the integration of environmental protection and climate change themes into game products to raise awareness of environmental responsibility and strengthen the brand's image.
In daily operations, preference is given to energy-efficient storage and low-power equipment purchases, while increasing the reuse of electronic components to further lower carbon emissions.
Integrate eco-friendly, public-interest features into game products to spread knowledge about climate change and social sustainability, or include thematic activities focused on environmental protection and climate change in game promotions, to heighten societal focus on climate issues and enhance awareness of climate risk management.
In day-to-day operations, Yalla actively promotes paperless office workflows, water and electricity conservation, waste sorting and plastic reduction efforts, while working to raise employees' awareness of environmental protection and foster eco-conscious working habits.
Resource Optimization
1) Water Conservation
We are dedicated to preserving water resources as part of our green office commitment and implement practical strategies to minimize water usage while supporting sustainable development:
Install water-saving signage and equip facilities with low-flow faucets to encourage
mindful consumption
Enhance regular maintenance of water systems, including routine pipeline checks and prompt leak repairs to prevent
unnecessary waste
We continuously refine our green office initiatives to reduce resource consumption, leveraging technology, standardized processes and employee awareness to optimize water, electricity, and paper usage:
2) Energy Saving
We remain dedicated to efficient energy management within our green office framework, adopting targeted initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce consumption, and lower our environmental footprint:
Prioritize the procurement of energy-efficient office equipment and appliances to support long-term savings
Enforce scientific temperature settings (25℃ for air conditioning in summer) to balance
comfort and conservation
▪
Assign dedicated staff to monitor after-hours energy use, ensuring timely shutdown of non-essential devices
Place clear reminder signage in office areas, meeting rooms, and workstations to
promote powering off lights and equipment
when leaving
Paper Reduction
We actively promote paper minimization across our green office operations to reduce waste and advance digital transformation:
Implement paperless workflows, including electronic approvals via DingTalk, email-based communications, and comprehensive digital archiving
Conduct ongoing awareness campaigns and enforce duplex (double-sided) printing as the default setting for all printers
34
2025 Environmental,
Social and Governance Report
About this Report
About Yalla Group
Responsible Governance Environment Trust
Our People
Our Community Appendix 35
Waste Management
We are committed to minimizing waste generation, promoting proper sorting and recycling, and contributing to climate and environmental protection as part of our green office initiative. To this end, we actively raise employee awareness through publicity and training, while guiding and encouraging the implementation of waste reduction, sorting, and recycling in the workplace.
Waste Reduction
We actively promote the efficient use of office supplies and prioritize reusable items to significantly reduce waste generation within our green office environment:
Extend the service life of office supplies by encouraging reuse and implementing internal recycling programs for used items
Strengthen supervision and management mechanisms to optimize the consumption of office supplies and prevent unnecessary waste
Promote the use of reusable items and minimize reliance on disposable products during employee activities and daily routines
Case
Yalla Must Be Green Program
In 2025, the Dubai office launched the "Must Be Green" green initiative, encouraging employees to practice small green acts in work and daily life including using reusable materials, using eco-friendly bags for shopping, donating unused items, sorting trash, recycling bottles. Each act earns 0.2 points (10 points = 1 "Green Day"), and accumulated Green Days can be redeemed for rewards, driving the adoption of sustainable habits through incentive mechanisms.
Aligning with the Company's green office philosophy, this lightweight, high-participation initiative empowers every employee to contribute to sustainability. Collective small actions reduce our environmental footprint, unite team consensus, and advance the building of a low-carbon, sustainable workplace ecosystem.
Waste Sorting & Recycling
Across all our offices, waste is systematically classified and collected per established categories to support efficient recycling and responsible disposal as a core element of our green office practices. We have established a structured process to enhance waste sorting and recycling efficiency:
Strengthen daily publicity and implementation of garbage classification
Install clear, standardized waste classification signage and guidelines at all relevant locations
Provide dedicated bins for wet waste, dry waste, and recyclables in pantries and common areas to facilitate proper separation and streamline downstream processing
Ensure recyclable materials (such as cardboard, plastic bottles, cans, and paper) are collected daily by cleaning staff, centrally sorted, and responsibly sold or handed over for compliant recycling
For hazardous waste, which primarily consists of used batteries, toner cartridges, and ink cartridges, we maintain strict sorting and collection protocols, entrusting final disposal to qualified third-party service providers who handle them in full compliance with regulations
Must Be Green Brochure
Trust is a core priority underpinning Yalla's ESG commitments. In the reporting year, we have taken targeted actions to strengthen our internal safety and compliance culture, advance a socially responsible supply chain, and reinforce intellectual property protection, all to build and sustain the trust and confidence of our users and partners.
Disclaimer
Yalla Group Ltd. published this content on April 23, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on April 23, 2026 at 02:38 UTC.