By Lucidity Insights Research Team • March 16, 2025
Not long ago, paying in installments was a clunky, outdated process—but BNPL has turned that model on its head. In the Middle East, where digital banking is evolving at breakneck speed, Tabby has positioned itself as a game-changer.
What started as a bold fintech idea in Dubai in 2019 has now catapulted Tabby into unicorn status—the first independent fintech unicorn in the region, securing $250M in Series D funding and reaching a $1.5B valuation. But Tabby isn’t stopping there.
With its sights set on Saudi Arabia, Tabby strategically acquired Tweeq, a digital wallet, unlocking new possibilities ahead of its anticipated IPO on the Tadawul Stock Exchange. By combining BNPL with digital banking solutions, Tabby is evolving beyond payments—it's shaping how financial transactions will look in the future.
As AI-driven financial tools become essential for seamless consumer experiences, the Middle East is stepping into a new era of fintech, proving that banking innovation isn’t coming—it’s already here.
Want to see how Fintech is redefining the Middle East? Dive into "The State of Fintech in the Middle East" for exclusive insights.
The State of Fintech in the Middle East
With 1,500+ fintechs, $4.2B in 2023 funding, 7 IPOs, 30+ M&A exits, and the rise of unicorns and superapps, the Middle East’s fintech sector is transforming into a global powerhouse. Discover the key players, emerging trends, and market forces shaping the future of finance in MENAT.
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NeoBanks are reshaping finance with digital-only services, reaching a $198B market in 2024. The Middle East is emerging as a key hub for fintech innovation.
Discover the latest trends in MENAT Fintech for 2025, with 1,500+ startups, $4.2B funding in 2023, and 26 soonicorns. Watch the video trailer.
At the end of 2020, there were a total of 87 fintech unicorns globally. 2021 was a fintech breakout year, minting 119 fintechs in the first 9 months of 2021 alone.
The UAE is home to the largest cluster of fintechs and is the first destination for prominent global fintechs to establish themselves in the Arab world.
Saudi fintech is transforming fast—70% cashless transactions by 2023, 216 fintechs in action, and Geidea leading SME-focused payment innovation in the region.