Top 10 Tech Scaleup Cities in MENA (By Number of Scaleups in 2022)

The region and the UAE’s numbers are dominated by Dubai, which has been the major benefactor of funding with over 300 scaleups calling the metropolis their home. In comparison, the second largest group of scaleups are based in Cairo at 135, less than half based in Dubai. 

The UAE’s dominance is also bolstered further by Abu Dhabi-based scaleups, ranking fourth in the list of top 20 cities, with Riyadh-based scaleups ranking third. 

While there is no doubt that Dubai is a preferred startup destination, the fact that over half of startups that have raised more than US$1 million of capital, based on disclosed values, is a further testament to Dubai’s attractiveness for startups.