The startup funding of MENA surged this week, reflecting growing investor confidence and rapidly expanding innovation across the region. Moreover, startups and investors in AI, fintech, proptech, agri tech, and venture capital announced multiple deals, further signaling a rapid flow of capital into emerging businesses.
In Saudi Arabia, Sukna Capital partnered with Partners for Growth to launch a $50 million lending initiative for tech firms and SMEs. Specifically, the Sukna SFDF, the Kingdom’s first open-ended direct lending fund, provides Shariah-compliant, non-dilutive financing, including working capital lines, term loans, and contract financing. As a result, the fund supports Vision 2030 by expanding credit access and helping founders scale while preserving equity.
Meanwhile, South Korea’s Rebellions, backed by Wa’ed Ventures, raised $250 million in a Series C round at a $1.4 billion valuation. Investors included Arm, Samsung Ventures, Pegatron VC, and Korea Development Bank. Additionally, Rebellions has established a Saudi subsidiary and deployed AI chips in Saudi Arabia, Japan, and the US, further strengthening its regional presence.
Saudi startups gained momentum as well. Sadq, a digital signature platform, closed a $1 million pre-Series A extension led by Impact46. Meanwhile, Tadawulcom Real Estate raised $400,000 to expand its proptech SaaS platform. At the same time, DOO secured $1.7 million to scale its AI-powered customer support platform across the GCC.
Across the United States, Epic Padel closed a $10 million seed round to expand operations in Virginia and Utah. Similarly, UAE-based BECO Capital raised $370 million across early-stage and growth funds, boosting assets under management to $820 million. Likewise, Egypt’s Sabika raised six-figure funding to grow its Shariah-compliant gold platform.
Additionally, Careem acquired a minority stake in Swapp to enhance car rental services. Meanwhile, UAE-based agri tech startup Aydi raised $7.5 million to deploy its AI agronomy assistant globally. At the same time, Iliad Partners completed a second closing of its $50 million VC fund. Tokinvest also raised $3.2 million to expand its asset tokenization platform.
Moreover, Climaty AI raised $2 million to scale its AI marketing ecosystem. In addition, fintech UPFRONT secured $10 million pre-seed funding to address the region’s SMB cash flow gap. Collectively, these developments show strong growth across the MENA investment landscape.
Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia’s Monsha’at will host the Biban Forum 2025 in Riyadh from November 5 to 8. The event, themed “Global Destination for Opportunities,” expects over 140,000 visitors from 150 countries. It will feature workshops, panel discussions, exhibitions, and deal signings, further boosting the SME and startup ecosystem.
Overall, the funding continues to accelerate innovation, attract both regional and global investment, and strengthen the ecosystem for emerging technology ventures. Consequently, these trends highlight expanding opportunities for both founders and investors.
