Bahrain’s startup ecosystem has achieved significant growth in 2024, reaching a valuation of $1.2 billion. This represents a 13% increase compared to the previous year.
This growth highlights the Kingdom’s increasing role as a prominent player in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) startup scene.
Bahrain has ranked among the top 10 ecosystems in MENA for funding and performance. It also stands in the top 15 ecosystems in the region for knowledge. Bahrain’s consistent rise reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to nurturing a thriving entrepreneurial environment.
Startup Genome, in partnership with the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), released the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) at VivaTech in Paris. This report highlighted Bahrain’s remarkable progress.
The Kingdom’s startup ecosystem continues to grow thanks to several key initiatives and strategic sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, and cybersecurity. Bahrain’s ecosystem benefits from a well-connected infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and access to capital.
Programs initiated by Tamkeen, the Kingdom’s economic development agency, have played a vital role in helping entrepreneurs access funding and develop innovative solutions.
Bahrain’s focus on advanced regulatory policies supports sectors like fintech and cybersecurity. Additionally, AI-related innovations are flourishing due to infrastructure improvements and educational programs.
Bahrain has also promoted open banking technologies, launched initiatives to support cryptocurrencies, and provided various resources for AI-driven startups. These advancements align with the Kingdom’s vision to become a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Bahrain offers a strategic entry point to the GCC and MENA markets. The Kingdom’s geographic location makes it an ideal hub for regional expansion. In addition, Bahrain offers relatively low operating costs, which helps startups thrive.
Moreover, government policies and business incubators are strengthening the ecosystem. The Kingdom organized more than 130 events dedicated to startups in 2024.
The continuous support from the government and private sector fosters growth and helps Bahrain stand out on the global entrepreneurial map.
The GSER 2025 report confirms Bahrain’s position as a leading startup ecosystem in the MENA region. With strategic support, regulatory policies, and a growing pool of talent, Bahrain’s startup ecosystem is poised for long-term success.
As the Kingdom’s entrepreneurial sector grows, Bahrain’s focus on fintech, cybersecurity, and AI will drive further growth and innovation.
