// NEWS //
Middle East start-ups gain global ground with original tech solutions
region are attracting investors and global partners with smart, scalable solutions to urgent problems.
“‘ In MENA’ no longer means just copying something else. It now stands for original products built to meet real needs in tough markets, with plans to grow beyond from the start.”
He credits UAE government policies for creating a safe, business-friendly environment for founders.
Middle East tech start-ups are gaining international recognition, with the UAE emerging as a key launchpad for success. Homegrown innovations tackling real-world challenges are scaling fast and attracting significant investment.
Dubai-based entrepreneur and tech investor, Abdumalik Mirakhmedov, said the rise of companies such as Seez, InstaDeep and Dake Rechsand has redefined what‘ Made in MENA’ means, with original, scalable solutions now competing globally.
“ The most exciting new tech is no longer exclusive to Silicon Valley,” said Mirakhmedov, Director and Co-founder of Scalo Technologies.“ Start-ups in this
One standout is Dubai-based AutoTech start-up, Seez. It began with an app that could identify any car from a single photo, gaining nearly 3 million users, before pivoting to provide AI- and Machine Learning-powered software solutions for dealerships and manufacturers. Now active in 16 markets from Mexico to Australia, Seez was acquired earlier this year by UK-based Pinewood Technologies for US $ 46.2 million.”
Research reveals fall in percentage of UK small businesses working on new initiatives to unlock future growth
The percentage of UK small businesses working on new initiatives to drive future growth has dropped to a fouryear low of 65 %, down from 71 % in Q1 2025, according to new research from Novuna Business Finance.
The study of 1,000 small business owners showed sharp sector declines compared with Q1, including manufacturing( 83 % to 69 %), transport and distribution( 76 % to 73 %), real estate( 72 % to 44 %) and media( 86 % to 61 %).
Over the last decade, low points in growth forecasts were typically offset by firms working on longer-term plans. This quarter marks the first time both measures have fallen.
Among those pursuing initiatives, the most common steps were defensive: keeping fixed costs down( 58 %), improving cash flow( 31 %) and tackling late payment( 25 %). Growthfocused moves included hiring more people( 17 %), investing in machinery and equipment( 16 %) and expanding into new overseas markets( 16 %).
Joanna Morris, Head of Insight at Novuna Business Finance, said:“ After the surge in small business confidence this time last year, there has been a slide in the percentage of business owners predicting growth for the last four quarters.
In parallel, the fall in the percentage of small businesses offsetting this by working on new projects to unlock future growth potential is a concern.”
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