Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, Sehteq managed to raise over US $23 million in funding for its series A round from 971 Capital and acquired Dawa Express that same year.
Sehteq also ranked 4th highest in MENA for “first-time fundraising”, falling behind STCpay, Sweetheart Kitchen, and Jahez; the insurtech startup was also the 11th most funded startup in MENA overall in 2020.
Dubai’s Digital Economy and Its Expanding Startup Ecosystem
Dubai’s startup ecosystem will have raised over USD 2 billion by the end of 2022, with self-employed and digital economy roles tripling. Few MENA markets have a 20-year-old startup ecosystem birthing multiple unicorns. Dubai has been the digital startup hub for tech giants and new unicorns alike. Since 2017, Dubai has raised 96% of UAE’s funds, totaling over USD 2 billion by October 2022. LinkedIn data shows a booming digital economy job market with increasing opportunities and remote work options. Learn from top home-grown startups and global transplants why Dubai is poised to become the next digital economy capital of the world.