Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem LEAPs once again

Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem LEAPs once again
Launched by Abdelrahman Sherief, Ahmed Ismail, Ismail Omar, and Mohammed El-Horishy, Taager helps entrepreneurs start and scale online businesses. (Supplied)
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Updated 15 February 2025
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Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem LEAPs once again

Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem LEAPs once again
  • LEAP 2025 boosts KSA’s role as a regional hub for fintech, e-commerce

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s LEAP 2025 tech conference, held from Feb. 9 to 12, showcased the Kingdom’s growing startup ecosystem, with multiple funding rounds, acquisitions, and expansion plans announced during the event.  

The conference, a key platform for innovation and investment, further cemented Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional hub for fintech, e-commerce, logistics, and emerging technologies.  

Saudi Arabia-based contech startup BRKZ used the forum to announce the completion of a $17 million series A extension, which includes $8 million raised in March 2023 and $1 million in venture debt.  

Investors in the round included Capifly, along with existing backers BECO Capital, Aramco’s Waed, and 9900 Capital, as well as Better Tomorrow Ventures, RZM Investment, and Class 5 Global.

MISY Ventures, Knollwood Investment Advisory, and Fluent Ventures are also among the supporters. Founded in 2023 by Ibrahim Manna, BRKZ is a B2B construction technology platform that connects suppliers and buyers while offering various delivery and payment options.  The latest funding brings BRKZ’s total capital raised to $22.5 million. 

Tabby doubles valuation to $3.3bn with a $160m round 

Saudi Arabia-based fintech Tabby has secured $160 million in a series E funding round at a $3.3 billion valuation.  

The round was led by existing investors Blue Pool Capital and Hassana Investment Company, with additional participation from STV and Wellington Management. 

Founded in 2019 in the UAE by Hosam Arab, Tabby operates as a buy now, pay later platform, handling $10 billion in annualized transaction volumes. 




Saudi-based fintech startup RasMal has closed a $4.8 million pre-series A investment round, led by Syndicate Element Holding Group. (Supplied)

The new funds will be used to accelerate the company’s expansion in financial services, including digital spending accounts, payments, cards, and money management tools.  

The latest investment also strengthens Tabby’s planned initial public offering. The company had previously raised $200 million in a series D round in October 2023.  

Buildnow closes $9.7m to expand SME-focused construction financing 

Saudi Arabia-based Buildnow has raised $9.7 million in a funding round led by STV and Arbah Capital, with additional financing coming from a mix of debt and equity. 

Founded in 2022 by Hisham Al-Saleh, Rahat Dewan, and Abdulla Sheikh, Buildnow is a build now, pay later platform that supplies construction materials on flexible credit terms while paying small and medium enterprise suppliers upfront in cash.  

The new capital will be used to scale its operations in the construction and building sector. In March last year, the company closed a $9.4 million seed round, comprising $6.5 million in equity and $2.9 million in debt financing.

Taager raises $6.75 million to expand social e-commerce in MENA 

Social e-commerce platform Taager, which was founded in Egypt and is now headquartered in Saudi Arabia, has secured $6.75 million in a pre-series B round led by Norrsken22. 

Launched in 2019 by Abdelrahman Sherief, Ahmed Ismail, Ismail Omar, and Mohammed El-Horishy, Taager helps entrepreneurs start and scale online businesses by offering product sourcing, storage, shipping, and customer payment solutions.  

Operating in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, and Iraq, the company aims to further expand across the Middle East with its new funding.  

In 2021, Taager raised $6.4 million in a seed round led by 4DX Ventures, Raed Ventures, and other investors.

RasMal raises $4.8m to enhance digital cap table management 

Saudi-based fintech startup RasMal has closed a $4.8 million pre-series A investment round, led by Syndicate Element Holding Group. 

Founded in 2019 by Basil Al-Kuraya and Nasser Al-Tamimi, RasMal offers digital solutions for private companies to automate cap table management, fundraising, and equity transfers. 

The company also supports investors and private funds in streamlining investment processes. The new funding will be used to introduce new tools and services to further enhance fundraising and equity management for its clients.

Waad Investment secures backing from Oman’s ITHCA Group 

Saudi-based Waad Investment has announced an investment from ITHCA Group, an entity created by Oman Investment Authority in 2019. 

The deal aims to strengthen telecom, IT, and venture capital collaboration between Saudi and Omani companies, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and the sultanate’s Vision 2040. 




Saudi-based Waad Investment has announced an investment from ITHCA Group.

PIESHIP secures $2.1m seed round for logistics expansion 

Logistics startup PIESHIP raised $2.1 million in a seed round led by Nama Ventures, with participation from SEEDRA Ventures and angel investors. 

Founded in Saudi Arabia in 2023 by Nasser Al-Harthi, Musaed Al-Amri, and Mohammed Mohsen, PIESHIP provides warehouse management solutions, last-mile delivery services, and logistics technology.  

The investment will support the company’s growth in the Saudi market. The startup previously secured an undisclosed pre-seed investment from Nama Ventures and SEEDRA Ventures.

LAHINT raises $1m to expand automated government services 

LAHINT, a Saudi-based e-services platform, has raised $1 million in a pre-seed funding round from undisclosed investors. 

Founded in 2023 by Ahmed Saber and Mohamed Ibrahim, LAHINT provides automated government services for both individuals and businesses.  

The company plans to expand its service offerings and introduce AI-powered eligibility consultations. Last year, LAHINT raised $267,000 in an earlier pre-seed round.

Mush Social acquires Pubbles to expand virtual communities 

Social media platform Mush Social has acquired Pubbles, a social media app operating in the Kingdom, to enhance its user base and digital presence. 

Founded in Saudi Arabia in 2022 by Abdulhadi Al-Asmi, Mush Social enables users to earn points and own virtual assets through its interactive map feature.  

Pubbles, launched in 2020, specializes in virtual communities and interactive technologies. In November 2024, Mush Social secured a $1.2 million pre-seed round led by Nifal Consulting.

Salla acquires Sweply, rebrands it as Salla Ads 

Saudi e-commerce Software-as-a-Service provider Salla has acquired Sweply, a digital advertising platform, as part of its strategy to integrate advertising solutions into its ecosystem. 

Founded in 2016 by Nawaf Hariri and Salman Butt, Salla enables merchants to set up online stores quickly.  

Sweply, launched in 2021 by Ebrahim Saeed and Wael Hassan, specializes in automated digital advertising. 

Following the acquisition, Sweply will be rebranded as “Salla Ads.” In March, Salla raised $130 million in a pre-IPO round led by Investcorp, Sanabil Investment, and STV. 

Foodics acquires UK-based Solo Venture, invests in three startups 

Saudi Arabia-based Foodics has acquired UK-based Solo Venture, a provider of self-ordering kiosks and online ordering solutions, as part of its strategy to enhance its restaurant and payments technology ecosystem. 

Founded in 2014 by Ahmad Al-Zaini and Mosab Al-Othmani, Foodics offers a point-of-sale and restaurant management platform for dine-in restaurants, food trucks, and cloud kitchens. 

Alongside the acquisition, Foodics has invested in Norma, a Greek AI-powered data analytics firm; Add, an accounting system for small businesses; and Arzaq Plus, a supply chain platform using AI and smart logistics to optimize sourcing and reduce waste.  

Foodics also plans to introduce a buy now, pay later feature for restaurant bills, improving cash flow management.

Unipal raises pre-series A funding to expand in Saudi Arabia 

Bahrain-born education tech startup Unipal has closed its pre-series A funding round, led by Plus VC with participation from Al Jazira Capital, RZM Investments, Falak Angels, and Doha Tech Angels. 

Founded in 2020 by Ali Al-Alawi and Ali Al-Shaer, Unipal provides discounts and special offers to university students via its platform.  

The funding will support Unipal’s expansion into Jeddah, Madinah, Dammam, and Khobar and the launch of its new AI-driven app.

T2 acquires majority stake in fintech platform Moola 

Saudi tech services provider T2 has acquired a majority stake in Moola, a Saudi expense management platform, to enter the fintech sector. 

Founded in 2022 by Waseem Hammoud, Moola provides corporate business cards and financial automation tools. T2 serves over 12,000 clients with software and business intelligence solutions. 

Raenest secures $11m series A for African expansion 

Raenest, a multi-currency accounts platform for African businesses, has closed an $11 million series A led by QED Investors, with backing from Norrsken22, Ventures Platform, P1 Ventures, and Seedstars. 

The funding will help Raenest expand in Nigeria, Kenya, the US, and Egypt, while growing Geegpay, its payment solution for Africa’s gig economy. 

MENA startup funding reaches $863m in January  

The MENA startup ecosystem raised $863 million in January, across 63 funding rounds, though $768 million came from debt financing. When excluding debt, the investment level was similar to January 2024, according to Wamda’s monthly report. 

Saudi Arabia dominated regional funding, securing $839.5 million across 21 deals, with Lendo and Forus debt rounds accounting for $750 million. 

The UAE followed with $14.6 million across 15 deals, while Egyptian startups raised $6 million from seven transactions. Other MENA countries collectively raised less than $2.5 million. 

The fintech sector led with $776.6 million across 11 deals, largely due to Lendo and Forus’ financings. Property tech attracted $38.7 million, while e-commerce startups secured $30 million across five rounds.


Aramco Ventures invests in Ucaneo to develop Germany’s largest direct air capture plant

Aramco Ventures invests in Ucaneo to develop Germany’s largest direct air capture plant
Updated 11 March 2025
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Aramco Ventures invests in Ucaneo to develop Germany’s largest direct air capture plant

Aramco Ventures invests in Ucaneo to develop Germany’s largest direct air capture plant

RIYADH: Aramco Ventures, the investment arm of Saudi Aramco, has joined a funding round for German startup Ucaneo, which is developing the country’s largest direct air capture facility. 

The backing follows Ucaneo’s €6.75 million ($7.3 million) seed round in September 2024, the company said in a statement. It did not disclose the value of its investment. 

Headquartered in Berlin, Ucaneo is focused on advancing DAC technology to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere efficiently and at scale. 

DAC is gaining traction as industries and governments seek scalable solutions to reduce emissions and meet global climate targets.

“Direct Air Capture, if achievable at a competitive cost, could play a crucial role in global decarbonization. Ucaneo’s approach, leveraging novel solvents and renewable energy-driven electrochemistry, has the potential to deliver a cost-effective and highly efficient solution,” said Bruce Niven, executive managing director at Aramco Ventures. 

He added: “We are excited to partner with Ucaneo’s innovative team to advance this technology toward large-scale adoption.” 

The facility, set to open in the first half of 2026, is expected to bring down DAC costs below €300 per tonne of CO2, positioning it among the most cost-competitive solutions globally, Ucaneo said. 

The company has also launched an industrial pilot capturing 30-50 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, making it one of Germany’s largest DAC test sites. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Aramco Ventures as one of our investors. For us, it was essential to find a partner who not only supports our scaling efforts but is also deeply committed to playing a leading role in the energy transition,” said Florian Tiller, co-founder and CEO of Ucaneo. 

“Only through impactful scale and strong partnerships can innovative technology developers like Ucaneo enable the world to build a real net-zero economy,” he added. 

Aramco Ventures’ backing of Ucaneo comes just days after it led a $30 million Series A round for US-based climate tech startup Spiritus, alongside Khosla Ventures, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, and TDK Ventures. Spiritus aims to scale its DAC technology to curb emissions from data centers and industrial construction without stalling growth. 

The investment underscores Aramco’s increasing focus on carbon capture and emissions reduction technologies as part of its broader strategy to support the energy transition. 


GCC firms maintain financial stability despite regional tensions: Moody’s

GCC firms maintain financial stability despite regional tensions: Moody’s
Updated 11 March 2025
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GCC firms maintain financial stability despite regional tensions: Moody’s

GCC firms maintain financial stability despite regional tensions: Moody’s

RIYADH: Companies in the Gulf Cooperation Council have maintained strong credit qualities despite the economic uncertainty caused by geopolitical tensions, according to Moody’s Investors Service.

A report from the firm stated that a significant number of GCC firms continue to benefit from strong balance sheets, low leverage, and ample cash reserves, ensuring financial stability and resilience.

Outstanding debt was steady at $410 billion last year, and is likely to remain at this level in 2025, Moody’s added. 

Heightened geopolitical tensions remain the main source of near-term credit risk in the region. Sound economic and operating conditions, robust business models, effective operating execution and financial discipline, were also cited as key reasons for the stability seen by many companies.

Mikhail Shipilov, vice president and senior analyst at Moody’s Ratings, said: “This translates into good financial performance, strong credit metrics and solid liquidity, which are likely to be sustained over the next 12 months.” 

He added: “Many companies have features that mitigate geopolitical risks, which have had a limited effect so far on credit quality. These features include geographic diversification of operating assets, alternative supply routes or a focus on domestic markets.”

Many GCC companies have adopted strategic measures to mitigate risks from geopolitical uncertainties, according to the report.

Several companies have diversified their operational presence, securing stability through international markets. Alternative supply routes and a focus on domestic demand provide an additional buffer against potential disruptions, Moody’s said.

While Qatari firms remain relatively more exposed due to their asset concentration, their strong sovereign backing and liquidity reserves continue to reinforce financial resilience.

Macroeconomic conditions remain favorable for domestic-driven sectors, including real estate, telecommunications, and utilities.

Economic diversification initiatives, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, continue to drive non-hydrocarbon growth.

The UAE’s economy is forecast to have expanded by 3.8 percent in 2024, with 4.8 percent growth in 2025, supported by a buoyant real estate sector and strong foreign investment.

Saudi Arabia is set to see 3.3 percent GDP growth in 2025 and 4.8 percent in 2026, bolstered by large-scale infrastructure projects and a growing tourism sector.

Export-oriented companies, especially in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries, continue to demonstrate resilience, according to the report.

Saudi Aramco stands out with its “immense operational scale, low production costs and downstream integration,” according to the report.

QatarEnergy benefits from vast, low-cost gas reserves and an expanding liquefied natural gas portfolio, securing its role as a major player in the energy sector.

Regional petrochemical companies leverage cost-efficient feedstock and advanced facilities to maintain a competitive edge in global markets.

The credit outlook for GCC corporates remains stable, supported by sound financial policies and government-led economic initiatives.


Saudi Arabia, South Korea sign deal to boost cooperation in space sector

Saudi Arabia, South Korea sign deal to boost cooperation in space sector
Updated 11 March 2025
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Saudi Arabia, South Korea sign deal to boost cooperation in space sector

Saudi Arabia, South Korea sign deal to boost cooperation in space sector

RIYADH: The Saudi Space Agency has entered into a new partnership with the Korean Aerospace Administration to boost cooperation in the space sector.

A memorandum of understanding was signed at the SSA’s headquarters in Riyadh, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between Saudi Arabia and South Korea in space exploration and technology development.

The agreement is in line with the Saudi Space Agency’s broader mission to support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal of becoming a global leader in space exploration.

It also seeks to contribute to the nation’s scientific and economic growth through innovation and technological advancements in space.

The MoU comes as part of Saudi Arabia’s growing commercial space sector, which is primarily driven by the private sector.

Over 250 companies are currently operating in the country, emphasizing the strong involvement of the private sector. Additionally, more than 20 government agencies regulate and support the industry, according to recent findings by SpaceTech in Gulf.

Mohammed Al-Tamimi, CEO of the Saudi Space Agency, emphasized that the agreement reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to enhancing international cooperation in space.

He stated that the SSA values such global partnerships, viewing them as essential for advancing technological capabilities and growing the space economy. Al-Tamimi underscored that the MoU will foster collaboration by integrating the expertise of both Saudi and Korean space professionals.

The terms of the agreement outline key areas of collaboration, including the development of deep space technologies, manned flight programs, satellite launches, and payloads. The MoU also sets out to strengthen capabilities in space sciences and engineering, facilitate the exchange of knowledge, and enhance expertise in advanced space applications.

Moreover, the agreement seeks to advance space research and technical development, while fostering an environment conducive to investment in the space sector. This partnership is expected to contribute to the growth of the space economy and improve the global standing of both Saudi Arabia and South Korea.

In September, Al-Tamimi led the Saudi delegation to the fifth G20 Space Economy Leaders Meeting in Foz do Iguacu, Brazil, where he highlighted Saudi Arabia’s advancements in space exploration.

He also emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to using space technology for sustainable development and climate change mitigation. During the meeting, he participated in discussions on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the role of space in addressing global challenges, further showcasing the Saudi Space Agency’s efforts to improve infrastructure, attract investment, and leverage space technology for sustainable progress.


Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,718

Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,718
Updated 11 March 2025
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Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,718

Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,718

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index continued its downward trend for the second consecutive day on Tuesday as it shed 27.67 points or 0.24 percent to close at 11,717.96. 

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR7.70 billion ($2.05 billion), with 122 stocks advancing and 116 declining. 

Saudi Arabia’s parallel market Nomu also shed 268.15 points to close at 30,763.22. 

The MSCI Tadawul index declined by 0.25 percent to 1,483.35. 

The best-performing stock on the main market was Riyadh Cables Group Co. The company’s share price increased by 10 percent to SR129.80. 

The share price of Batic Investments and Logistics Co. also edged up by 6.34 percent to SR2.85.

Al-Baha Investment and Development Co. also saw its stock price rising by 5.88 percent to SR0.36. 

Conversely, the share price of Arabian Contracting Services Co. declined by 5.12 percent to SR129.80. 

On the announcements front, Mohammed Hadi Al Rasheed and Partners Co. said that its net profit for 2024 reached SR80.74 million, representing a rise of 80.58 percent compared to 2023. 

In a Tadawul statement, the company said that the rise in net profit was driven by an increase in sales and customers amid expansion in line with the company’s strategy.

Despite posting an increase in profit, the share price of Mohammed Hadi Al Rasheed and Partners Co. declined by 9.04 percent to SR142.80. 

Twareat Medical Care Co. said that its net profit witnessed a rise of 65.98 percent year on year to reach SR23.5 million. 

The healthcare firm added that its overall revenue also rose by 23.97 percent year on year in 2024, driven by improved sales strategies, new service contracts in areas like NEOM, Jubail, and Jafurah, and expanding medical services for existing clients.

Twareat Medical Care Co.’s board of directors also recommended dividends at SR0.25 per share for 2024. 

The share price of  the company edged up by 6.53 percent to SR22.50. 

Arabian Centers Co., also known as Cenomi Centers said that the firm’s net profit for 2024 stood at SR1.22 billion, representing a decline of 18.44 percent compared to 2023. 

In a Tadawul statement, Cenomi Centers revealed that its overall revenue reached SR2.34 billion in 2024, marking a year on year rise of 4.01 percent. 

It also announced that its board of directors has decided to pay a dividend of SR0.37 per share for the third quarter of 2024. 

The share price of Cenomi Centers edged up by 1.29 percent to SR20.36. 

Walaa Cooperative Insurance Co. said that it witnessed a net profit of SR64.30 million in 2024, representing a 56.55 percent decline compared to 2023. 

The insurance firm’s share price declined by 3.53 percent to SR18.04. 


Tabuk offers over 120 investment opportunities, driven by young workforce, strong demand

Tabuk offers over 120 investment opportunities, driven by young workforce, strong demand
Updated 11 March 2025
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Tabuk offers over 120 investment opportunities, driven by young workforce, strong demand

Tabuk offers over 120 investment opportunities, driven by young workforce, strong demand
  • Region is undergoing a major transformation, hosting some of the Kingdom’s most innovative projects and significant investments
  • It aims to become a leading tourism destination along the Red Sea

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk region offers over 120 investment opportunities across sectors, from large projects to small businesses, leveraging its young workforce and strong consumer demand, a top official said.

The region’s mayor, Hussam bin Muwafaq Al-Youssef, and local business leaders discussed important initiatives and investment opportunities in the municipal sector. The meeting, part of the “Chamber’s Diwaniya” events during Ramadan, aimed to strengthen communication, encourage dialogue, and exchange ideas.

The gathering was also attended by Imad Al-Fakhri, chairman of the Tabuk Chamber of Commerce, and members of the organization’s board of directors, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The northwestern region is undergoing a major transformation, hosting some of the Kingdom’s most innovative projects and significant investments. It aims to become a leading tourism destination along the Red Sea.

A key driver of this change is NEOM, a futuristic urban development that merges natural wonders with cutting-edge technologies. As Saudi Arabia’s largest giga-project and a central element of Vision 2030, NEOM, along with AMAALA and the Red Sea projects, are set to fuel growth and attract substantial investment across various sectors.

During the gathering titled “Tabuk ... Your Investment Destination,” Al-Yousef discussed key regional developmental and economic projects and shed light on his mayoralty’s plans to improve quality of life and attract investments.

The mayor highlighted some of the region’s competitive advantages, such as manufacturing, agriculture, mining, energy, and tourism, which have contributed to boosting Tabuk’s investment appeal.

He discussed the area’s significant potential, particularly in the tourism sector and said the municipality is working to create an investment-friendly environment by offering a variety of flexible processes and support to investors and entrepreneurs.

Al-Youssef said Tabuk boasts valuable assets, specifically its young talent, population structure, and purchasing power, placing the region third in the Kingdom for per capita consumption.

He added the municipality has over 120 available investment prospects across different sectors, including large, medium, and small-scale projects.

He encouraged business leaders to seize the opportunities and invest in the growing sectors, particularly with the government’s ongoing support for the private sector.

Al-Fakhri praised the municipality’s efforts in creating a competitive business environment and supporting investors and commended the collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving development, attracting investments, and overcoming challenges to benefit the region and its residents.

Al-Yousef listened to attendees’ feedback on the challenges investors face in the municipal sector and received suggestions for improving the investment environment and municipal services.