The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) startup ecosystem raised US$494 million across 58 deals in February 2025, marking a 371% increase from January and nearly a fivefold rise from last year.

Debt financing dropped sharply, making up only 15% of total investment, down from 90% in January.

Saudi Arabia led with US$250.3 million from 25 deals, followed by the UAE with US$203.5 million from 15 startups, and Egypt with US$27.5 million from 8 deals.

Fintech dominated sector funding, securing US$274 million from 15 deals, followed by insurtech with US$55 million and logistics with US$28.5 million.

Later-stage funding saw strong activity, with Tabby raising US$160 million in series E, while Ula and Merit Incentives each secured US$28 million in series B.

B2B startups led with US$191.6 million, while B2C startups raised US$138.5 million.

Investment disparities were evident. Startups led by male founders received US$429 million (87% of total funding), while female-led startups secured only US$200,000. The remaining funds went to startups co-founded by both genders.