MENA’s startup scene thrives in Q2 2025 with major funding and strategic moves in fintech, health, food tech, and SaaS. Saudi Arabia and UAE lead with large rounds and expansions, while emerging markets like Iraq see growing tech innovation.
Nigeria’s telecom sector will see a major quality boost by Q3 2025, driven by a $1 billion equipment investment following tariff adjustments. The upgrade targets expanded 4G/5G coverage, improved broadband, and rural connectivity, combining private investment with government support to ensure nationwide digital inclusion.
Circle, Kuwait’s q-commerce startup, raises $6M Series A to expand across MENA. The company offers under-20-minute delivery via a tech-enabled network of dark stores, driving 7x revenue growth in Kuwait and preparing for regional rollout in 2026.
IFC invests in UAE immersive media startup VUZ during a $12 million funding round to accelerate global expansion in AI-driven live streaming and spatial experiences. The move supports IFC’s digital inclusion goals as VUZ targets Saudi Arabia, Africa, US, and Asia markets.
Thndr raised $15.7 million led by Prosus to expand its digital investment platform across MENA, focusing on the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The Cairo-based fintech leads retail investing in Egypt, onboarding 82% of new EGX investors and growing female participation. The funding supports regional growth and financial inclusion efforts.
Egypt’s mobile operators have invested $2.7 billion in 5G licenses since 2019, highlighting confidence in Egypt’s digital growth. The 5G Technology Forum in Cairo united global stakeholders to discuss accelerating deployment, smart infrastructure, and Egypt’s role as a regional digital innovation hub.
Nawy has secured $75 million in funding to fuel its expansion across MENA and elevate its tech-driven real estate services. With an AI-first approach and new market expansion plans, the company is poised to transform the real estate industry in Africa and the Middle East.
MedIQ, a health tech platform based in Pakistan, raised $6 million in Series A funding to expand its operations across the GCC. With the backing of Rasmal Ventures and Joa Capital, MedIQ aims to strengthen its tech stack and scale in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and neighboring markets.
Startup Bangladesh Limited has invested in Shikho, an EdTech startup, to accelerate the adoption of AI-driven learning tools in Bangladesh. With over $8 million in total funding, the collaboration aims to scale access to quality education across urban and rural areas, fostering an inclusive, mobile-first learning experience.
ITHCA Group has partnered with US-based Lumotive to strengthen Oman’s semiconductor industry. The investment focuses on establishing a centre of excellence for semiconductor design, fostering research, skills development, and knowledge transfer. Lumotive, backed by prominent investors, is recognized for its innovative technology in optical semiconductors.
