Saudi Capital Riyadh Leaps 60 Spots to Join Top 25 Global Startup Ecosystems
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menaraisingstars
- June 21, 2025
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Riyadh has made a significant advancement in the global startup ecosystem landscape, climbing 60 places to secure the 23rd position in the latest global ranking, highlighting rapid growth and increasing prominence in the MENA region.
A Remarkable Rise
According to the Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) 2024 by Startup Genome, Riyadh has jumped an impressive 60 positions, moving from its previous rank outside the top 50 to land at 23rd globally. This dramatic ascent places the Saudi capital firmly among the world’s leading cities for startups and innovation. The report underscores Riyadh’s emergence as a dynamic and rapidly growing hub, attracting significant attention and investment.
Driving Factors
The GSER 2024 report attributes Riyadh’s substantial rise to several key factors. Strong government support has played a crucial role, with initiatives like Invest Saudi and various catalyst programs actively fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurs. Significant funding availability is another major driver, with increased venture capital flowing into the ecosystem. Furthermore, the city has demonstrated enhanced capabilities in attracting and retaining talent, improving its connectedness within the global network, expanding market reach, and deepening knowledge within key sectors. These combined elements have created a fertile ground for startup success and accelerated ecosystem development.
Implications for MENA
Riyadh’s climb into the top 25 is a significant development for the entire MENA startup ecosystem. It signals the increasing maturity and global competitiveness of cities in the region. For founders and professionals in MENA, this means greater access to funding, a growing pool of skilled talent, and increased visibility on the international stage. The momentum generated by Riyadh’s success is likely to have positive ripple effects, encouraging further investment and innovation across neighboring ecosystems.
Looking Ahead
Riyadh’s trajectory suggests a continued focus on strengthening its position as a global innovation hub. With ongoing government support, increasing private sector participation, and a growing influx of talent, the ecosystem is poised for further expansion. This rapid development presents significant opportunities for both local and international startups looking to scale and tap into the vast potential of the Saudi and wider MENA markets.
Source: MEATechWatch
