Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
StartUp Bahrain will host its fifth StartUp Bahrain Weekend on October 9–11, 2025, at AUBH. The 54-hour startup marathon will unite 250 participants to build ventures, pitch ideas, and compete for BD 1,000 in prizes, while fostering collaboration, mentorship, and exposure for Bahrain’s startup ecosystem.
MENA startup funding hit $783M in July 2025, surpassing last year’s total in just seven months. Saudi Arabia and the UAE dominated with two unicorns—Ninja and XPANCEO—while Iraq and Morocco surprised with breakout deals. Deeptech and e-commerce led sector growth, but the gender funding gap remains severe.
Saudi’s Gathern raised $72M in Series B funding led by PIF-owned Sanabil Investments, reaching a $266M valuation. The platform manages 72,000 units across 200+ Saudi cities, contributing SAR 2B to the local economy. The funds will drive regional expansion, inbound tourism, long-term stays, and AI solutions, with a Tadawul listing on the horizon.
Tunisia hosts BIGTECH Africa Expo 2025, Africa’s premier innovation and AI event, attracting startups, investors, and experts to boost the continent’s digital transformation and global tech stature.
MENA startups across fintech, logistics, AI, and SaaS sectors raised significant capital recently, reflecting robust regional innovation. New funds and media partnerships bolster ecosystem growth, while Saudi Arabia hosts OpenAI models locally, enhancing AI access.
Zain Jordan funded AI startup LeafleX with 15,000 JOD and one year of logistical support, reinforcing its commitment to youth entrepreneurship and tech innovation in healthcare.
Disrupt Asia 2025 will showcase Sri Lanka as a regional innovation hub, attracting global investors and fostering digital transformation. The event features top government officials, international leaders, and startups, strengthening Sri Lanka’s position in South Asia’s growing tech ecosystem.
Kuwaiti women lead 41% of startups, driving innovation across sectors like fintech and e-commerce. Backed by Vision 2035 and support platforms, female founders are reshaping the economy and culture despite funding and regulatory challenges.
Oman’s MTCIT launched the Space Accelerators Programme to support ten local startups in developing space technologies across satellite communications, AI, drones, and more. The one-year initiative includes technical and business training and aligns with Oman’s economic diversification and tech advancement objectives.
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.