Foreign Startup Licenses in Saudi Arabia Surge 118% to 550 by Mid-2025
The number of foreign startups licensed under Saudi Arabia's "Riyadi" initiative has increased significantly.
RIYADH — The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has witnessed a significant growth in the licensing of foreign startups through its 'Riyadi' initiative, reaching a total of 550 licenses by mid-2025.
This represents an impressive 118% increase compared to the same period last year, as reported by the Ministry of Investment.The surge in licenses reflects national efforts aimed at establishing Saudi Arabia as a prominent regional hub for entrepreneurship.
These initiatives focus on facilitating entry for international startups and creating a flexible regulatory environment that promotes innovation and attracts investment.In support of this growth, the General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises (Monsha’at) has issued 364 licenses to business incubators and accelerators nationwide.
These entities play a crucial role in attracting international entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary support throughout their growth journey, from early prototyping and mentorship to gaining access to investors and markets.The Kingdom has also hosted several flagship international events such as Biban and LEAP, which have drawn global founders by highlighting Saudi Arabia's dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem and investment opportunities.
Furthermore, active participation in global forums like Web Summit, Vivatech, and Slush has enhanced international networking and promoted the Kingdom as an attractive destination for startup activities.The 'Riyadi' license (Startup Investment Registration) is a key initiative launched by the Ministry of Investment to empower both local and international entrepreneurs to easily establish ventures with partners from around the world.
This program aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader objectives of economic diversification, innovation, and fostering an entrepreneurial culture.
This represents an impressive 118% increase compared to the same period last year, as reported by the Ministry of Investment.The surge in licenses reflects national efforts aimed at establishing Saudi Arabia as a prominent regional hub for entrepreneurship.
These initiatives focus on facilitating entry for international startups and creating a flexible regulatory environment that promotes innovation and attracts investment.In support of this growth, the General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises (Monsha’at) has issued 364 licenses to business incubators and accelerators nationwide.
These entities play a crucial role in attracting international entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary support throughout their growth journey, from early prototyping and mentorship to gaining access to investors and markets.The Kingdom has also hosted several flagship international events such as Biban and LEAP, which have drawn global founders by highlighting Saudi Arabia's dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem and investment opportunities.
Furthermore, active participation in global forums like Web Summit, Vivatech, and Slush has enhanced international networking and promoted the Kingdom as an attractive destination for startup activities.The 'Riyadi' license (Startup Investment Registration) is a key initiative launched by the Ministry of Investment to empower both local and international entrepreneurs to easily establish ventures with partners from around the world.
This program aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader objectives of economic diversification, innovation, and fostering an entrepreneurial culture.
