Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Jordan’s Alefredo EdTech has acquired UK-based Tutor House for $600,000, expanding its global footprint and completing its AI-driven learning platform by integrating tutoring, assessments and analytics, as regional edtech companies increasingly pursue cross-border acquisitions to scale internationally.
MENA startups raised over $250 million as fintech, health tech, data, and gaming ventures secured major rounds across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain. Despite a December slowdown, B2B, cybersecurity, and deeptech deals signaled strong regional momentum, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as the region’s leading startup hub.
Flat6Labs concluded its three-year StartMashreq Program with strong results across Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq, supporting thousands of entrepreneurs, advancing inclusion, creating jobs, and unlocking significant startup funding. Backed by the Netherlands and IFC, the initiative demonstrated how targeted ecosystem support can drive resilient, cross-border entrepreneurship in challenging markets.
Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit backed 11 startups across MENA, South Asia, and Hong Kong with $100,000 each, focusing on innovation in logistics, fintech, mobility, and more. The program supports Saudi Vision 2030, scaling solutions that address regional challenges while connecting founders to global markets and investment networks.
MENA startups are attracting strong investor interest, with Intella ($12.5m Series A), WheelsOn ($12.5m), Munify ($3m), Seraya ($1.8m), Sheba Joy ($293k), Justyol ($1m), and Addvocate.AI securing new funding. Basata announced a $7m expansion plan, while QIA joined Anthropic’s $13bn Series F.
Middle East startups are setting global tech trends, with the UAE as a major launchpad. Innovators like Seez and Dake Rechsand offer original, scalable solutions to global challenges, attracting strong investments and expanding internationally.
Riyadh ranks 23rd globally in emerging startup ecosystems, thanks to strong government support, venture capital growth, and thriving tech sectors like AI and FinTech, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions and regional innovation leadership.
Major funding rounds and strategic investments across MENA are boosting the tech startup ecosystem. Key sectors include fintech, immersive media, spacetech, AI, and quick-commerce. Notable deals feature Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Kuwait, and Iraq startups. These investments drive regional innovation and align with economic goals like Saudi Vision 2030.
EdVentures, the corporate venture capital arm of Nahdet Misr Publishing Group, has invested six-figure US dollars in Egyptian ed-tech startups Schoolz and Ibn Sina. These investments expand EdVentures’ portfolio to 24 startups and continue its mission to enhance education and professional development through innovative technology in the MENA region.
Nowlun, a digital freight forwarding platform in the MENA region, has raised $1.7 million in seed funding to fuel its expansion and technology development. The platform offers competitive ocean freight rates, real-time shipment tracking, and streamlined cargo management, revolutionizing the logistics industry with cutting-edge technology.