MENA’s Innovation Ecosystems Accelerate in GSER 2025

The Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2025 (GSER 2025) reveals a year of rapid progress for startup ecosystems across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). From rising unicorns to increased exit activity and a growing pipeline of early-stage startups, the MENA region is fast becoming a critical player in the global innovation economy.

At the forefront is Riyadh, which saw one of the most significant climbs in the Emerging Ecosystems ranking, fueled by major exits and growing investment momentum. Meanwhile, cities like Dubai, Cairo, Abu Dhabi, and Amman continue to demonstrate consistent ecosystem development, supported by government-led innovation agendas and an expanding base of regional investors.

• The top five ecosystems in MENA are Tel Aviv, Dubai, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Cairo.
• Tel Aviv is the only MENA ecosystem ranking in the Top 40 and remains the region’s leading ecosystem, maintaining its place at #4.
• Dubai is the #19 Emerging Ecosystem globally and the #2 MENA Ecosystem in Talent & Experience.
• Cairo is the #1 MENA Ecosystem in Bang for Buck, measuring the amount of runway tech startups acquire, on average, from a VC round. Tunisia is #2.
• Riyadh made impressive progress, jumping from the 51-60 range last year to the 21-30 range in 2025. It produced a billion dollar exit with Fintech Rasan and saw an 11% increase in early-stage funding deal count.
• Abu Dhabi moved from the 61-70 range in the GSER 2024 to the 51-60 range this year thanks to the top-valued exit of Alef Education at $2.6 billion. The number of active unicorns increased, and early-stage funding deal count was up by 48%.
• Jeddah, AlKhobar-Dammam, and Amman entered the top 10 MENA ecosystems this year, at #6, 9, and 10, respectively.
• Sharjah’s Ecosystem Value growth in GSER 2025 was 142%.

Bahrain - Top 10 MENA Ecosystem in Performance

“Bahrain positions itself as a prime destination for startups to ideate, launch, and expand into new markets. Its well-connected ecosystem, robust infrastructure, and highly-skilled tech talent provide a strong foundation for growth.” — Maha Mofeez, Chief Executive, Tamkeen

Sharjah - Top 10 MENA Ecosystem in Funding

“Sharjah’s exceptional ecosystem growth reflects the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. At Sheraa, we build a thriving startup community and cultivate a movement rooted in innovation, resilience, and regional relevance. Through targeted initiatives, strategic partnerships, and a founder-first approach, we empower entrepreneurs to lead in sectors shaping our future, including sustainability, advanced manufacturing, the creative economy, and edtech, through Sheraa’s Centers of Excellence. As Sharjah reinforces its position as the UAE’s hub for talent and knowledge, we remain committed to building a globally competitive ecosystem that delivers lasting value to founders, investors, and communities alike.” — H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa)

Tunisia - #3 MENA Ecosystem in Affordable Talent

"Tunisia’s startup and VC ecosystem is vibrant, backed by strong talent, progressive regulations, and attractive investment incentives, making it a strategic gateway for innovation and scalable ventures across Africa and beyond." — Nejia Gharbi , CEO, CDC