Explosive Growth In MENA’s Startup Ecosystem

by News Editor

March 5, 2025

February marked a groundbreaking month for MENA’s startup landscape, with an impressive $494 million raised across 58 deals—almost five times more than last year’s total for the same month. While Saudi Arabia dominated with $250.3 million accrued over 25 deals, the UAE and Egypt followed suit with $203.5 million and $27.5 million respectively.

Debt Financing Dips In February

Unlike January, where debt financing took the bulk of investments, February saw it drop to just 15% of total funding. The exclusion of debt reveals a staggering 371% increase in investment activity, highlighting a promising shift in financial dynamics.

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Industry Leaders And Rising Sectors

Fintech emerged as the leading sector, delivering $274 million over 15 deals. Insurtech and logistics took the next spots, with $55 million and $28.5 million respectively. This upswing showcases both sustained interest and escalating financial backing for key tech industries.

Regional Contributions and Gender Disparities

B2B models attracted the most attention in February, garnering $191.6 million through 33 transactions. However, gender disparities remain, as startups led by male founders bagged 87% of the total investment. Despite the progress, this underlines the need for more equitable funding allocations.

For further insights into startup ecosystems, explore how Cyprus is setting new records in global startup growth.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Cyprus Surplus Hits €1.24B In 2025 As Debt Remains At 55%

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 24, 2026

Cyprus recorded a fiscal surplus of €1.24 billion in 2025, equivalent to 3.4% of GDP, according to preliminary data from the Cyprus Statistical Service. Public debt stood at €20.08 billion, or 55% of GDP, remaining below the European Union reference threshold.

Ensuring Fiscal Stability

The figures were validated under the Excessive Deficit Procedure, which assesses member states’ compliance with fiscal rules. Verification under this framework indicates alignment with EU budgetary requirements and supports Cyprus’ position as a fiscally stable economy within the bloc.

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Revenue Growth Dynamics

Total revenues increased by €1.17 billion, or 7.9% year on year, to €15.92 billion, up from €14.75 billion in 2024. Growth was supported by higher tax and contribution inflows. Revenue from income and wealth taxes rose by 10% to €4.18 billion, while social contributions increased by 8.5% to €4.9 billion. Net VAT revenues declined slightly by 0.5% to €3.15 billion. At the same time, income from goods and services rose by 20.5%, and current transfers increased by 22.9%, contributing to overall revenue expansion.

Strategic Expenditure Management

Government spending rose by €1.37 billion, or 10.3%, to €14.68 billion, up from €13.31 billion in 2024. Social benefits increased by 6.7% to €5.66 billion, while compensation of public employees grew by 7.3% to €4.16 billion. Capital expenditure recorded the largest increase, rising by 45.1% to €1.75 billion, reflecting higher investment activity. Spending on property income payable declined by 4%, while subsidies fell by 14.4%.

Positioning For Future Growth

The 2025 results show continued surplus generation alongside controlled public debt levels. Maintaining debt below 60% of GDP aligns with EU benchmarks and supports fiscal flexibility, while revenue growth and investment spending indicate ongoing economic activity.

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