Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Digital Cooperation Organisation’s Startup Country Guide 2024 highlights Oman’s evolving startup ecosystem, emphasizing Vision 2040, government incentives, and sectoral opportunities in fintech, AI, 5G, and IoT, supported by initiatives like the Oman Future Fund and OTF’s Techween.
Saudi Arabia’s explosive growth in startup funding, led by a booming fintech sector, highlights its rising prominence as a dynamic investment hub in the MENA region, attracting significant capital and fueling innovation.
NICAT opens Cohort 6 applications to scout startups advancing aerospace, defense, and deep tech in Pakistan. With strong industry integration and a founder-focused bootcamp model, NICAT aims to drive innovation, inclusion, and global competitiveness in frontier technologies.
ORA, a Casablanca-born Moroccan startup, raised $7.5 million in Series A funding, championing the value of local innovation and signaling Morocco’s readiness to support homegrown tech ventures.
Algeria is involving its start-up ecosystem in infrastructure projects to drive innovation and reduce technological dependence. A new joint commission will connect start-ups with infrastructure stakeholders, supporting digital solutions and creating skilled jobs as part of the country’s broader knowledge economy strategy.
Snoonu partners with Saudi Arabia’s Jahez Group, becoming Qatar’s first unicorn with a QR 1 billion valuation, accelerating innovation and digital growth across the GCC.
Oman’s MTCIT launched the Space Accelerators Programme to nurture 10 local startups in space tech sectors like satellite communications and AI, fostering entrepreneurship and national capability development.
Ten female-led startups across multiple sectors have been selected for Standard Chartered and Bahrain FinTech Bay’s Futuremakers Women in Tech Bahrain programme. The eight-week acceleration initiative supports entrepreneurial growth through mentorship, workshops, and networking, culminating in Demo Day with financial awards.
G42 became the first UAE-based company named to TIME’s 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential Companies. Recognized for advancing responsible AI globally, G42 is building an accessible “Intelligence Grid” and expanding its impact across sectors including healthcare, energy, and space.
Morocco’s startup funding surged to nearly $95 million in 2024, driven by a few high-value deals and growing interest in TravelTech and FinTech. However, early-stage dominance, limited exits, and a funding gap risk stalling growth. Strategic support in late-stage funding, M&A, and emerging tech is essential to unlock Morocco’s next phase of innovation-led economic expansion.