INFOGRAPHIC: Startup Funding in Africa and the Middle East — Week 13, 2025

Ogbonda Chivumnovu -

Startups across Africa and the Middle East are securing serious cash as they push to reshape industries and solve big problems. From UAE-based health tech to Israeli security startups, the funding landscape is buzzing with activity — and the numbers are impressive.

Valeo Health, a healthtech player from the UAE, secured $12 million in its Series B round, bringing its total funding to $20 million — a strong signal of confidence in their approach to transforming healthcare delivery.

Cybersecurity is also getting some serious attention. Israeli startup Charm Security just came out of stealth mode with an $8 million seed round led by Team8. Their focus? Using AI to protect consumers and financial institutions from social engineering fraud — a growing threat in the digital world.

Meanwhile, African fintechs are making major moves. Egyptian payment solutions startup Enza raised $6.75 million in seed funding to drive more inclusive digital payments across the continent. Nigerian AI-powered lender Payhippo closed a $4 million pre-Series A round and rebranded to Rivy, doubling its mission to power Africa’s renewable energy sector.

Fintech is also heating up in the Middle East. Riyadh-based Nayla Finance secured $4 million in seed funding to provide micro-businesses with much-needed capital. UAE-based AI startup Lumi AI pulled in $3.7 million in seed funding from heavyweights like AgFunder and Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund ADQ to scale its AI-driven solutions.

Even HR tech is getting involved in the action. South African startup Jem HR, which simplifies employee benefits through WhatsApp, just closed a $3.3 million pre-Series A round to fuel its growth. In Saudi Arabia, fintech company Arabian Pay secured an undisclosed amount in a pre-seed round backed by Al Bassami Holding Group.

The funding flood shows no signs of slowing. As these startups scale, they’re not just raising capital — they’re redefining industries and setting the stage for the next wave of innovation.