Can Saudi Arabia become a leading global fintech hub?

May 22, 2024

Kholoud Hussein 

 

Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has managed to take the lead and take advanced steps to boost the fintech sector and develop it into a flourishing industry marked by rapid growth, diversifying services, and increasing contribution to its national economy. Yet, the kingdom is facing challenges to become a leading global fintech hub. 

 

Key players 

 

In April 2018, the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA), in collaboration with the Saudi Capital Markets Authority (CMA), kickstarted the nation’s fintech growth journey with the launch of Fintech Saudi, an initiative aimed at cementing KSA’s position as the leading fintech hub in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. Fintech Saudi continuously strives to boost, support, and represent the fintech industry in KSA through initiatives such as its Accelerator program, Career Fair, Fintech Tour, and the Summer Sessions. Since the launch of Fintech Saudi, there has been a 20-fold increase in the number of fintechs operating in the kingdom. Over SAR 4 billion ($1 billion) has been invested into fintech companies in KSA, and over 100,000 people have engaged in fintech-related events, training courses, and internships organized by Fintech Saudi.

 

According to a recent report by Arthur D. Little, the development and approval of the national fintech strategy in May 2022 marked the next stage of fintech development for KSA. The strategy was based on six pillars:

 

  1. Developing KSA as the fintech hub for the Middle East
  2. Creating a regulatory environment supportive of growth and innovation
  3. Funding for start-ups
  4. Training and skill enhancement
  5. Accelerating support infrastructure
  6. Driving local and international collaboration

KSA’s Vision 2030 plan for fintech has four key objectives, constituting clear milestones toward its aspirations of being a global fintech leader: 

 

  1. Establish at least 525 fintech companies (versus 200 in 2023)
  2. Open 18,000 fintech job opportunities (versus around 5,400 in 2023)
  3. Account for $13.3 billion in direct GDP (versus around $1 billion in 2023)
  4. Achieve $12.2 billion in direct venture capital (VC) contributions (versus $1.4 billion in 2023)

The number of fintech companies in KSA more than doubled in one year, from 89 in 2022 to ~200 in 2023. This impressive growth has been catalyzed by a range of measures to stimulate innovation, with three in particular standing out:

 

  1. Fintech Saudi: The establishment of Fintech Saudi was a catalyst for change, leading to such measures as the Fintech Accelerator program, the Fintech Saudi Innovation Hub, an online fintech directory, regulatory enhancements in collaboration with SAMA, and various flagship events (e.g., Fintech Tour and hackathon)
  2. Fintech Regulatory Sandbox: The SAMA-established sandbox allowed controlled live testing of fintech innovations, facilitating a smooth transition to the open market
  3. Start-up funding: Various financial-support mechanisms have been deployed in the Saudi fintech ecosystem, some of which are industry-agnostic. For example, the Saudi Venture Capital Company (SVC), supported by CMA and the Financial Sector Development Program (FSDP), launched a SAR 300 million fund focused on fintech start-ups and plans to invest SAR 6 billion more into start-ups and SMEs across other sectors.

 

So far, SVC has invested in 35 VC funds, which have facilitated over 900 deals and SAR 1.9 billion in investments. The Saudi National Technology Development Program (NTDP) has launched the Technology Development Financing initiative that supports start-ups with debt funding.

 

Key progress areas

 

The report pointed out that the three key areas illustrate the major progress already made in KSA fintech: digital payments, alternative financing, and financial product aggregation.

 

For digital payment, the kingdom embarked on a journey to transform society to be less dependent on cash transactions. A cornerstone was the FSDP, which played a pivotal role in introducing new players to the financial services landscape. According to the Saudi Vision 2030, there is a plan to escalate the proportion of non-cash transactions to 80% by 2030, a significant leap from its 18% baseline in 2016.

 

The fintech landscape has been enriched through collaborative synergies between Saudi Payments and fintech companies. Among the various developments, digital wallets, local transfers, QR code payments, and SADAD system bill payments stand out as the most prominent. According to data released by SAMA, digital wallet usage has seen an exponential rise from 315,000 in 2018 to 17 million by 2022, representing over half of KSA’s population. In 2018, bank transfers were the primary method for topping up these wallets, accounting for approximately 70% of all top-ups. However, by 2022 around 80% of top-ups were being made via debit or credit cards.

 

On the other hand, the alternative financing sector, particularly “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) and debt crowdfunding, has emerged as the second-largest fintech subsector in Saudi Arabia, trailing only behind Saudi Payments. This growth reflects a shift in consumer and business financing preferences, increasingly leaning toward more flexible and accessible options than traditional banking models.

 

Debt crowdfunding has become a vital avenue for financing, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) facing challenges in securing traditional bank loans. The platforms operating now in KSA offer a streamlined digital process for businesses to sell invoices and secure funding, alleviating cash flow issues and aiding growth.

 

As reported by SAMA, the investor base in the KSA crowdfunding market has seen significant growth, from 302 in 2019 to over 92,000 in 2022. These investors have collectively issued over 1,800 loans worth more than SAR 1.1 billion since 2019, with about SAR 770 million in loans disbursed in 2022 alone.

 

Challenges 

 

Saudi Arabia’s fintech landscape is still young and nascent. It does not have the deal flow we see in Egypt, the advantage of Bahrain’s long experience in financial markets, nor the pull of the UAE’s ecosystem, whose financial landscape is also further ahead in terms of crypto and blockchain regulations.

 

Talent is also a big issue. A report from Fintech Saudi shows that hiring qualified talent was the main obstacle for 40% of fintech startups, followed by regulations at 37%, then access to customers/customers testing at 28%.

 

In addition, there is a gap in Saudi Arabia, like most of the other countries in the region, between the education system and work requirements. Universities need to bridge this gap by preparing students for the labor market in different tech spaces. 

 

Further, the kingdom’s startup ecosystem is still young, and attracting talent requires hefty salaries that most startups cannot afford. It still lags behind Dubai as a hub for global companies and talent, while processes tend to be more laborious and time-consuming. Riyadh and Jeddah both lack the quality of life that has proven to be so crucial for attracting talent and that is visible in the makeup of the fintech sector in the country. According to recent data, 80% of the fintech startups operating in Saudi Arabia are headquartered in the kingdom and are founded primarily by Saudi entrepreneurs.

 

However, the Saudi government has made its intentions very clear – it wants a diversified economy where entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators should be able to flourish. If it continues to progress in its current trajectory, Saudi Arabia certainly has the potential and capacity to become the best market for fintech for many reasons, including the spending capabilities of the population, the advancement of the financial sector, and the progression of the regulator.

 

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The Future of Shopping: Exploring the Q-Commerce Phenomenon

Noha Gad

 

The retail landscape in Saudi Arabia has witnessed a significant leap in recent years, driven by rapid technological advancements and the growing demand for convenience.  In a country where digital transformation and innovation are at the forefront, quick commerce (q-commerce) found fertile ground, revolutionizing the way consumers shop online by prioritizing speed and convenience.

Q-commerce, sometimes used interchangeably with ‘on-demand delivery’ and ‘e-grocery’, is e-commerce in a new and faster form. This innovative model combines the efficiency of traditional e-commerce with the immediacy of local delivery services, catering primarily to urban dwellers who seek quick access to everyday essentials like groceries, household items, and prepared meals.

As the demand for rapid delivery solutions has surged, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, q-commerce has emerged as a distinct segment within the retail landscape.

 

Traditional E-commerce Vs. Q-Commerce

Unlike traditional e-commerce, which often involves longer delivery times and a broader product range, q-commerce focuses on a limited selection of high-demand items stored in strategically located micro-fulfillment centers.

These facilities are designed to facilitate swift deliveries using agile transportation methods, such as bicycles or scooters, ensuring that customers receive their orders within an hour or even minutes.

Regarding business models, Saudi q-commerce companies, such as Jahez, HungerStation, Nana, and Floward, utilize small and local warehouses located near urban centers to enable rapid fulfillment of orders. However, traditional e-commerce companies generally rely on larger, centralized distribution hubs that serve a broader geographic area but at the cost of speed.

Q-commerce aligns with modern consumers' desire for instant gratification, where customers expect their orders to arrive almost immediately. It primarily targets urban areas where demand for quick delivery is high and logistics are manageable.

 

Key Features of Q-commerce

Q-commerce is rapidly transforming the retail sector in Saudi Arabia by offering a unique shopping experience. Here are the key features that define q-commerce:

  • Ultra-fast delivery
  • Convenience
  • Hyperlocal operations
  • Limited product range
  • Real-time order tracking
  • Reliability and quality assurance
  • Cost efficiency

 

Benefits of q-commerce for businesses in Saudi Arabia

The q-commerce market in Saudi Arabia offers numerous advantages for businesses looking to thrive in a competitive marketplace as it is anticipated to reach around four billion orders annually by 2026, backed by increasing consumer demand for fast delivery services and the emergence of new players in the sector. Here are some major benefits of adopting a q-commerce model in the Kingdom:

  • Rapid market growth. 
  • Enhanced customer experience. 
  • Increased operational efficiency
  • Access to valuable consumer data
  • Flexibility and scalability 
  • Competitive advantage

 

In conclusion, q-commerce is reshaping the retail landscape in Saudi Arabia and beyond, offering businesses an innovative way to meet the growing demand for speed and convenience in shopping. By leveraging ultra-fast delivery services, strategic micro-fulfillment centers, and advanced technology, companies can enhance customer experiences while optimizing their operations.

As the q-commerce market continues to expand, businesses that adapt to this model stand to gain a significant competitive advantage. They can attract a loyal customer base while realizing Vision 2030’s digital transformation and economic diversification goals. 

From Pitch to Funding: Essential Steps for a Successful Startup Fundraise

Ghada Ismail

 

Securing capital for any startup can be one of the most common challenges in the world of business everywhere, however, in the rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape of Saudi Arabia, attracting funds for your startup is no longer just a dream—it's an achievable reality. 

 

With a robust support system bolstered by government initiatives and a burgeoning network of investors, entrepreneurs are well-positioned to access the capital they need to thrive, yet for some entrepreneurs, navigating the fundraising process can still feel daunting. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur looking for seed funding or an established startup seeking venture capital, understanding the intricacies of the funding landscape is crucial. This mini-guide will walk you through the essential steps to conduct a successful fundraising campaign, helping you unlock the doors to financial support and propel your business toward success.

 

1. Understand the Funding Landscape

Saudi Arabia offers various funding options, including venture capital, angel investors, crowdfunding, and government grants. Organizations like Monsha'at, the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority, provide crucial resources and support for startups seeking funding, with a landscape that will help you identify which funding sources align best with your business model.

 

2. Develop a Strong Business Plan

A well-structured business plan is essential. It should detail your startup's vision, target market, , and financial projections. Investors are keen on understanding how their money will be utilized and the expected return on investment. Ensure your plan is data-driven and well-tailored to the interests of your potential investors.

 

3. Create an Engaging Pitch Deck

Your pitch deck is your opportunity to make a compelling first impression. It should highlight the problem your startup solves, your innovative solution, and your market strategy. Use visuals and concise data to support your narrative. Remember to practice your pitch so you can deliver it confidently and answer questions effectively.

 

4. Build Meaningful Connections

Networking is a cornerstone of the fundraising process in Saudi Arabia's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Attend industry events, such as Biban 2024, and local meetups to connect with potential investors, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs. These gatherings provide an invaluable opportunity to share experiences, exchange ideas, and create lasting relationships.

 

5. Choose the Right Funding Option

Consider your startup’s stage and funding needs. Early-stage startups might look for seed funding from angel investors, while later stages could attract venture capitalists for Series A rounds. Crowdfunding is also gaining traction in Saudi Arabia an alternative avenue for raising capital by appealing directly to the public.

 

6. Prepare for Due Diligence

Once you catch an investor’s interest, prepare for a thorough due diligence process. Investors will review your financial records, legal documents, and overall business health. Being transparent and organized during this phase can strengthen trust and potentially lead to smoother negotiations.

 

To wrap things up, embarking on a fundraising journey for your startup in Saudi Arabia is not just about securing financial backing; it’s an opportunity to connect with a vibrant ecosystem that celebrates innovation and entrepreneurship. By strategically navigating the funding landscape, crafting an engaging narrative, and building authentic relationships, you can turn your vision into reality. Remember, every pitch is a stepping stone toward not only finding investors but also fostering valuable partnerships that can propel your startup forward. As you prepare to take this crucial step, embrace the process with confidence, knowing that the support of the Kingdom’s evolving entrepreneurial environment is with you. Your next chapter of growth awaits—seize the opportunity and unlock the potential that lies ahead!

 

 

 

The Rise of Embedded Finance: Transforming Everyday Business at Seamless KSA 2024

Kholoud Hussein

 

Embedded finance is rapidly reshaping how financial services are delivered, integrating them directly into non-financial platforms and everyday business operations. At Seamless KSA 2024, this trend is a focal point, showcasing how fintech, retail, and e-commerce are using embedded finance to revolutionize business interactions, driving new growth opportunities and enhanced customer experiences.

 

Embedded finance enables businesses to offer payments, lending, insurance, and other financial services within their platforms without relying on third-party financial institutions. For example, e-commerce platforms are now providing Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options, giving customers the ability to finance purchases seamlessly. Saudi companies like Tamara are leading the way, streamlining the customer experience and driving higher sales conversions.

 

This transformation is not just improving user experiences; it’s also boosting business outcomes. According to industry reports, embedded finance is expected to grow by 25% annually in Saudi Arabia, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and retailers benefiting the most. By embedding financial services into their platforms, businesses can unlock new revenue streams, improve customer retention, and make transactions more efficient.

 

Embedded finance is particularly impactful for SMEs, which often struggle to access traditional financial services. Companies like Lendo and Funding Souq are integrating lending solutions directly into business platforms, allowing small businesses to quickly access working capital, helping them grow and compete in a digital economy.

 

As Saudi Arabia’s digital economy continues to expand, embedded finance is set to play an even larger role in sectors like insurance, wealth management, and B2B transactions. The innovations showcased at Seamless KSA 2024 highlight the potential of embedded finance to become a core part of the Kingdom’s financial ecosystem, benefiting businesses and consumers alike through seamless, integrated financial services.

FinTech as a Catalyst for Financial Inclusion in Saudi Arabia in 2024

Kholoud Hussein 

 

FinTech has emerged as a powerful tool for driving financial inclusion in Saudi Arabia, especially in 2024, as the Kingdom continues its ambitious journey toward a digital economy under Vision 2030. With a growing number of unbanked and underbanked individuals and small businesses, fintech innovations offer solutions extending beyond traditional banking, bringing more people into the formal financial system and enhancing economic participation.

 

In Saudi Arabia, where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make up a significant portion of the economy, many face challenges accessing traditional financial services. FinTech has bridged this gap by providing digital banking, lending platforms, and mobile payment solutions that cater specifically to their needs. Companies like STC Pay, Tamara, and Lendo are leading the way by offering innovative financial products that streamline payments, provide access to credit, and enable seamless transactions. According to a 2024 report by Fintech Saudi, the fintech sector in the Kingdom grew by 54% over the past year, significantly increasing financial accessibility for both individuals and SMEs.

 

Government initiatives have also played a crucial role in supporting fintech’s impact on financial inclusion. The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) and Fintech Saudi have implemented regulatory frameworks, such as the Regulatory Sandbox, to foster fintech development and ensure financial products are secure, accessible, and compliant. In a recent statement, SAMA Governor Ayman Al-Sayari remarked, “Fintech is central to our vision of an inclusive financial ecosystem. By empowering underserved communities with digital tools, we are creating opportunities for growth and participation.”

 

Furthermore, mobile wallets like Mada Pay and Apple Pay have made it easier for consumers to manage their finances without needing a traditional bank account. With more than 75% of the population using smartphones, mobile payment adoption is expected to continue rising, bringing financial services to those previously excluded from the formal banking system.

 

In conclusion, FinTech is playing a transformative role in financial inclusion in Saudi Arabia, breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities for SMEs and individuals alike. As digital financial services expand, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to achieve its Vision 2030 goals of creating a more inclusive and digitally-driven economy.

5 factors that make startups the driving force behind Saudi Arabia's non-cash economy

Shaimaa Ibrahim

 

The cashless economy represents a fundamental transformation in the way financial transactions are being processed globally. In Saudi Arabia, the ambitious Vision 2030 targets enhancing financial inclusion and building a digital environment that fosters a non-cash economy.

Startups working in tech-based sectors play a pivotal role in enhancing the non-cash economy and driving digital transformation in the world in general and Saudi Arabia in particular. These startups contribute to developing innovative solutions that change consumer behavior and promote digital payments.

 

Importance of non-cash economy

The non-cash economy contributes to accelerating payments, reducing transaction times, enhancing the efficiency of commercial businesses, and lowering operational costs. It also provides unbanked individuals and small-sized enterprises a seamless access to financial services. Hence, the Saudi government adopted several strategies to drive digital transformation by fostering innovation in the fintech industry and upgrading e-payments infrastructure, leading to a leap in digital payments in the Kingdom.

According to figures released by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), the share of e-payments in the retail sector reached 70% of total retail payments in 2023, up from 62% in 2022. Additionally, Saudi national payment schemes saw significant growth in 2023 as the number of e-payments processed through these schemes hit 10.8 billion, compared to 8.7 billion transactions in 2022.

 

Startups and non-cash economy

Startups play a crucial role in driving the Kingdom’s shift towards a non-cash economy, thanks to their innovative solutions that transform the pattern of financial transactions.

 

Here, we showcase the key factors that make startups the driving force behind Saudi Arabia’s non-cash economy:

  • Offering innovative solutions. Startups develop new solutions that offer users convenient and safe payment methods and enhance digital payment culture.
  • Enhancing e-commerce.  Startups often establish platforms that streamline online purchases and payments by providing safe and flexible payment options.
  • Supporting Vision 2030. Startups in Saudi Arabia spare no effort to realize Vision 2030’s goals of enhancing digital transformation, achieving financial inclusion, and diversifying the national economy away from oil resources.
  • Promoting cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is a top priority for startups. That is why they invest heavily in upgrading security measures to protect users' data.
  • Boosting financial inclusion. Startups provide financial services for individuals and small-sized enterprises that do not have access to traditional banking services, offering flexible payment solutions that cater to the different needs of all categories.

 

Finally, startups can play a crucial role in realizing Vision 2030 objectives, backed by the Kingdom’s continuous digitization efforts. By tackling challenges facing startups and bolstering cooperation between government and private sector, Saudi Arabia will be able to create a robust digital economy that fosters sustainable economic development.

 

Translation: Noha Gad