MENA startups raised $228 million in April 2025, marking a 105% MoM surge
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) startup ecosystem saw a substantial surge in investment in April 2025, securing $228.4 million across 26 deals. This figure marks a 105% increase from the funds raised in March and nearly a 300% rise compared to April last year.
Interestingly, the absence of debt-financed deals in April highlights growing investor confidence in equity-based funding— a trend reflecting a healthier capital environment.
Saudi Arabia led MENA startup funding during the month, attracting $158.5 million across eight deals—primarily driven by iMENA Group’s $135 million pre-IPO round. The UAE followed, with nine startups raising a total of $62 million.
Elsewhere in the region, Morocco experienced a notable jump to third place, attracting $4 million in funding across two startups. Egypt, by contrast, saw a more modest outcome, with four startups securing just $1.5 million.
Investor appetite remained strongest in the fintech sector, which attracted $44 million across seven deals. Traveltech also climbed the ranks, thanks in part to HRA Experience’s transaction, while e-commerce drew $2.5 million across three startups. Notably, SaaS startups made a return in April, securing $1.8 million in three deals after minimal visibility in the first quarter.
While later-stage activity was limited to iMENA’s pre-IPO round, early-stage startups dominated the month’s investment landscape, raising $49 million across 20 transactions.
Funding for female-led startups continued its downward trend, falling to a concerning low of under $500,000 in April. In contrast, startups with male founders secured 97% of all disclosed investment. An additional $6.5 million went to three startups with both male and female co-founders.
By business model, the business-to-business (B2B) segment led the way, attracting an impressive $180 million across 12 deals. Business-to-consumer (B2C) startups followed, securing $43 million across seven deals. The remaining investments went to six startups operating dual B2B and B2C models.
