Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s startup ecosystem has reached a $4 billion valuation, driven by growth in fintech, mobility, and enterprise technology sectors. Despite strong early-stage momentum and international investor interest, limited domestic growth capital continues to delay unicorn creation, highlighting the need for deeper funding and large-scale exits to sustain long-term expansion.
The Startup Charter reflects Egypt’s ongoing efforts to position innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable growth within the country’s evolving technology ecosystem.
Pakistan is considering a proposed $50 million Techxila Fund II with Gobi Partners to support startups in fintech, logistics, e-commerce, and health technology, as part of efforts to strengthen the venture capital ecosystem and promote technology-driven economic growth.
Zain Great Idea Demo Day showcased 11 startups from six Arab markets, connecting entrepreneurs with investors and partners while reinforcing Zain Group’s strategy of linking innovation, venture investment, and digital technology to accelerate regional startup growth.
Experts at SEF 2026 said the UAE’s digital infrastructure and regulations enable startups to scale globally. They stressed that AI success depends mostly on business culture, not tools, and praised the UAE’s government–private sector partnership, access to talent, and strong digital ecosystem.
Qatar announced a $2 billion expansion of its Fund of Funds and new incentives for startups at Web Summit 2026, including 10-year residencies and compute credits. The move strengthens Qatar’s position as a global innovation hub attracting founders, investors, and technology leaders worldwide.
Vodafone Qatar will showcase end-to-end digital solutions at Web Summit Qatar 2026, guiding startups and SMEs from idea to scale through immersive demos and expert consultations. The initiative aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and reinforces Vodafone’s role as a trusted partner for business growth in the digital economy.
Ooredoo will return as Diamond Sponsor of Web Summit Qatar 2026, showcasing AI, connectivity, and startup innovation through an immersive Innovation Hub Pavilion. The sponsorship reinforces Ooredoo’s role in enabling Qatar’s National Digital Strategy 2030 and positions the company at the centre of the country’s growing global technology ecosystem.
Omani fintech startup Raaz is helping families gain financial clarity by turning everyday banking data into actionable insights. Founded by Daanish Khan, the app consolidates accounts, tracks spending, and offers personalised guidance, aiming to replace financial anxiety with confidence as it prepares for a full GCC rollout.
Morocco-based Enakl raised $2.3 million in Seed funding to expand its intelligent shared mobility platform. Backed by local and international investors, the startup will scale commercially, launch a SaaS product for operators, and test new ridepooling models, building on public-sector pilots and growing demand for sustainable urban transport.