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.

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Cyprus Tourism Down 20% Amid Middle East Instability

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

June 2, 2026

Economic Overview

Cyprus’ tourism sector has recorded a 20% decline this year, with industry representatives attributing much of the downturn to ongoing instability in the Middle East. Christos Angelides, President of the Cyprus Hotel Managers Association (Pasydixe), said the losses are significant and cannot be overlooked, particularly as the sector enters the peak summer season.

Recovery Through Last-Minute Bookings

Despite the weaker performance, hoteliers remain hopeful that demand could improve during the coming months through last-minute reservations. Year-round hotels were particularly affected during the March-May period, when booking activity slowed, and cancellations increased. According to Angelides, the industry is now relying on stronger demand in July and August to partially offset earlier losses. “We are still left with July to generate tourist flow,” he said, noting that booking trends over the coming weeks will be critical for the season’s overall outcome.

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EU Assistance And Industry Reforms

The sector has called for financial support from the European Union to help businesses manage the impact of lower tourist arrivals. Angelides said additional assistance would help operators remain competitive against other European destinations while continuing to invest in service quality and visitor safety, two factors that have traditionally supported Cyprus’ tourism industry.

Competitive Pressures And Strategic Response

Occupancy levels in key tourism regions, including Larnaca and Famagusta, remain below expectations, reflecting the broader challenges facing the sector. Angelides called for a coordinated strategy extending through 2027 to strengthen Cyprus’ tourism offering and address concerns that have affected traveler confidence in recent months.

Although the industry expects 2026 to end below initial forecasts, stakeholders are focusing on extending the tourist season and adapting to changing market conditions in an effort to support a recovery in visitor numbers.

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