Kholoud Hussein 

In today’s fast-evolving business world, especially within the high-growth startup ecosystem, the traditional employer-employee dynamic is undergoing a fundamental shift. One of the most powerful tools fueling this change is the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)—a compensation mechanism that offers employees an equity stake in the company. Once considered a niche concept in corporate America, ESOPs have become a strategic cornerstone in startups across the globe, including emerging ecosystems in the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.

What Is an ESOP?

An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is a program that allows employees to become partial owners of the company they work for. Instead of solely receiving salaries or bonuses, employees are granted shares (or options to buy shares) in the company, either directly or through a trust. These shares typically vest over a period of time, incentivizing long-term commitment and alignment with the company’s goals.

In simpler terms, ESOPs give employees "skin in the game." When the company does well, so do they. If the company is acquired or goes public, employees with vested stock can realize substantial financial gains.

Why Startups Embrace ESOPs

Startups, especially in their early stages, often face budget constraints. Offering high salaries to attract top talent isn't always feasible. That’s where ESOPs come in—not only as a financial workaround but as a strategic asset.

1. Talent Attraction and Retention:
   In highly competitive markets, top-tier talent is drawn to startups that offer equity. The promise of future ownership, particularly in a fast-scaling company, can be more appealing than a higher salary at a traditional firm.
2. Motivation and Performance:
   When employees are co-owners, they’re more likely to think and act like entrepreneurs themselves. This fosters a culture of accountability, innovation, and performance-driven decision-making.
3. Cash Preservation:
   By offering equity instead of higher cash compensation, startups can allocate resources to product development, marketing, or scaling—vital for survival and growth in early stages.
4. Alignment of Interests:
   ESOPs naturally align employee interests with those of the founders and investors. Everyone becomes invested in the company's success, leading to better collaboration and long-term thinking.

How ESOPs Work in Startups

Typically, startups set aside a percentage of their equity—often 10% to 20%—in an "ESOP pool." This pool is then distributed among current and future employees based on role, seniority, and performance.

Shares are not handed out all at once. Instead, they vest over time, commonly on a 4-year schedule with a 1-year cliff. That means employees earn their shares gradually, encouraging them to stay and contribute over the long haul.

In high-growth startups, especially those targeting IPOs or acquisitions, vested ESOPs can become extremely valuable. Employees may cash out during an exit event or through secondary share sales, transforming equity into life-changing rewards.

ESOPs in Emerging Markets

In the MENA region, the concept of ESOPs is gaining ground as local startups mature and global investment interest rises. Governments and regulators in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt are beginning to recognize the value of employee ownership as a means of encouraging entrepreneurship and economic diversification.

However, challenges remain, such as legal frameworks, tax implications, and cultural acceptance. Many employees remain unfamiliar with the concept of equity compensation, and some startup founders are hesitant to dilute their ownership stake. Education and transparency are crucial in bridging this gap and fully unlocking the potential of ESOPs in regional markets.

To conclude, for startups, ESOPs are not just a tool to attract employees—they are a strategic enabler of growth, culture, and resilience. They align incentives, foster loyalty, and build a sense of shared mission. In a world where innovation moves fast and people drive performance, ownership can be a game-changer.

As startup ecosystems continue to expand globally, integrating ESOPs into compensation strategies will not only help attract top talent but will also redefine how success is shared and who gets to own the future.

Ghada Ismail

Founded in 2006 in San Marino, Bioscience Institute has grown into a leading name in regenerative medicine and genomics, with key operations in Europe and the Middle East. The company was the first to establish a private stem cell lab in the GCC, launching a state-of-the-art Cell Factory and Biobank in Dubai.

Known for its strong focus on research and innovation, Bioscience works closely with top universities and reinvests in developing advanced therapies. As it looks to expand further into the Gulf, particularly Saudi Arabia, the company is bringing its expertise in stem cells, personalized medicine, and AI-powered diagnostics to the region.

In this interview, we explore how Bioscience built credibility in a new field, how it views the Saudi market, and what’s next for its growth in the GCC.

You launched the first private stem cell lab in the GCC back in 2013. What was the regional and global landscape for stem cell therapy like at the time, and how did you establish scientific credibility in such an emerging field?

When we began our stem cell cultivation activity in Dubai in 2013, we built a cell factory that was the only one of its kind in the entire Middle East. At the time, there were only about a hundred clinical trials underway, whereas now there are more than 1,600. Back then, there were no authorizations from the FDA or the European Medicines Agency, whereas now such approvals exist. Scientific evidence was limited to a few localized treatments, whereas today systemic physiopathological and pathological conditions are being treated with excellent results. Scientific evidence and our rigorous activity have contributed to building our credibility in the region.

Bioscience has been operating across Europe and the UAE. What draws you to Saudi Arabia now, and how do you view its potential for knowledge transfer and long-term collaboration?

We are very interested in what is happening in KSA and in the opportunity to export our know-how, which began to take shape in 2007 when we started our operations in Italy. For this to happen, it will be necessary to share our experience with a Saudi partner who is suitable in terms of expertise and capabilities.

How would you describe the regulatory and cultural environment in the GCC when it comes to adopting advanced biomedical technologies like stem cell therapy?

The regulatory and cultural environment of the GCC has been open to dialogue and has not taken a prejudiced stance. As a result, it focuses on the substance of proposals, facilitating the introduction of innovative technologies in the region more quickly than in other countries. The GCC regulatory framework is highly flexible and is not influenced by the lobbying of large industries, as is often the case in the USA and Europe.

How is Bioscience leveraging AI to support clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes, especially as the company expands into more complex markets like Saudi Arabia?

We use AI for our Clinical Decision Support System, which assists our physicians in performing accurate patient assessments and identifying the most suitable therapy by cross-referencing data from numerous biomarkers—something that would otherwise be impossible for a human to achieve.

With digital transformation reshaping patient expectations in Saudi Arabia, how is Bioscience adapting its technology and service models to meet demand for more personalized and tech-enabled care?

We have developed an IT platform that functions as an operating system and can be integrated into the operations of any clinic, enabling the use of the most advanced protocol in the fields of molecular biology, genomics, and regenerative medicine with stem cells and exosomes.

Given Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in biotech and innovation, do you see the Kingdom emerging as a regional R&D hub for regenerative medicine in the coming years?

Saudi Arabia has the potential to become a hub for R&D in regenerative medicine; however, in addition to investments, a supportive environment and incentives should be created for companies with know-how that could be shared.

Ghada Ismail

Speed is life in startup land. Getting your idea to market quickly can be the difference between leading the charge and watching someone else do it first. But let’s face it: building a product from scratch takes time, money, and technical resources that many founders simply don’t have, especially in the early days. That’s where white-label products come into play.

In effect, a white-label product is an off-the-shelf solution produced by one company and sold to another, which retails it and flaunts it as if it were theirs. It's the technology era's version of a bare piece of paper: you slap on your logo, your design, your dream, and you're in business.

White-labeling allows startups to quickly get started without having to reinvent the wheel. Instead of spending months on development, founders can focus on what really matters: building a great brand, growing rapidly, and gaining users.

Why Startups Prefer White-Label Solutions

White-labeling is a favorite tool for early-stage founders, especially those who are non-technical or those in highly regulated verticals such as fintech or healthtech. It's how you go fast without compromising quality or compliance.

Here's why it works so well:

• Quicker time-to-market: You can go to market in weeks instead of months.

• Lower costs: Skip the expensive development phase and save your money for scaling.

• Pre-integrated compliance: The majority of providers already comply with regulatory requirements in the industry, so you don't need to go through the legal trouble.

• White-label branding: Make the product fit your own brand; your image, your voice, your UX.

• Less development time: Spend less time developing and more time selling, marketing, and expanding.

It's a smart way to conduct a test in the real world without burning your runway.

Where White-Labeling Works Best

White-label models thrive in areas where the underlying functionality is analogous, and most crucial is how you brand and deliver value to your users.

Some of the most used industries where startups use white-label offerings are:

• Fintech: Digital wallets, BNPL (buy now, pay later) apps, insurance platforms, robo-advisors.

• E-commerce: Website builders, loyalty programs.

• Healthtech: Virtual clinics, appointment systems, patient portals.

• SaaS: Chatbots, invoicing platforms, analytics dashboards.

• Edtech: Learning platforms, online classrooms, exam tools.

Where a regulatory environment is strict, as in the case of Saudi Arabia, and sectors like fintech and healthtech are growing aggressively, white-label products allow startups to access markets rapidly without falling foul of regulation.

What to Watch Out For

No answer is ever perfect, naturally. White-labeling has its trade-offs, and here are some of them: 

• Limited control: You're working within someone else's template, so you could be restricted in what you can modify.

• Vendor dependence: Your product is dependent on the reliability and support of your white-label vendor.

• Scalability problems: As your business grows, you could end up having to switch to a custom-built system that can handle more users or special features.

• Insufficient differentiation: If you have more than one firm utilizing the same base product, your competitive edge has to come from branding, customer support, or add-ons.

The key is to use white-labeling as a stepping stone, not a long-term home. It's a great beginning, but you'll need to have an exit strategy when you outgrow it.

Wrapping Things Up…

White-label options represent a smart, strategic way in which startups are able to reach the market faster, spend less on developing out, and focus on growth. To many entrepreneurs, they're the magic ingredient to concept proofing and early traction.

But while a white-label product can help you get started, it won't make you successful. That's still up to you; how well you understand your users, how you build your brand, and how you adapt as you grow.

So if you're a founder with a vision and limited tech capabilities, or you operate in a tough, regulated space, white-labeling might be the go-to launch strategy for you to enter the market.

Ghada Ismail
 

The way we pay is changing. Again! From magnetic stripes to chip cards, mobile wallets, and wearables, each wave has brought more convenience and speed. Now, the next frontier may be something far more innate: the human palm.

Palm recognition technology, once confined to high-security settings, is making its way into everyday finance. With a simple wave of the hand, users can authorize payments, verify their identity, and access services with no phone or card required. Tech giants like Amazon have already introduced palm-scanning systems across retail, entertainment, and even healthcare. Pilots are also appearing across Asia and the Middle East, including rising interest in Saudi Arabia and the GCC.

As digital economies seek faster, safer, and more inclusive payment options, palm biometrics offer a compelling solution. But they also raise valid questions around privacy and surveillance. Is this frictionless future a leap forward—or a little too close for comfort?

Either way, the next era of financial access may be closer than we think—literally in the palm of our hands.

How Palm Recognition Works
Palm recognition systems use near-infrared light to scan the unique vein patterns beneath the skin; an internal signature nearly impossible to forge. The data is encrypted and stored securely, often in cloud-based environments. During authentication, users simply hover their palm over a scanner, and the system matches the scan to their registered biometric template in under a second.

Amazon has been a leading adopter with its “Amazon One” system, which combines palm and vein imagery for high-accuracy authentication. The technology integrates with existing payment networks like Visa and Mastercard, allowing users to link their palm to a digital wallet or bank account.

Fintech Use Cases Around the World

Amazon One in Whole Foods and Beyond

• Retail Rollout: Amazon One is now active in more than 500 Whole Foods Market locations across the U.S., following a nationwide expansion completed in 2023.
• Airports & Venues: The technology is also in use at major airports and sports stadiums, including retail outlets in U.S. terminals and venues like Coors Field.

Healthcare Innovation at NYU Langone Health

• In March 2025, NYU Langone Health began rolling out Amazon One for patient check-in, offering a contactless alternative at its clinics and hospitals.

International Developments

• Singapore: At the 2024 Singapore Fintech Festival, Tencent and Visa jointly piloted palm-based payments. After a one-time registration, customers were able to pay with their palm at participating cafes.
• China: In Beijing, passengers on the Daxing Airport Express Line can use palm recognition via WeChat Pay to enter the metro—no cards or phones required.

These examples show that palm biometrics are no longer experimental. They're entering the mainstream.

Why Fintech Is Embracing the Palm

Palm biometrics offer a mix of advantages that appeal to fintechs and users alike:

• Speed: Authentication is virtually instantaneous, reducing queues and wait times.
• Security: Vein patterns are internal and highly resistant to spoofing, offering stronger protection than fingerprints or facial recognition.
• Hygiene: Fully contactless, palm scanning is ideal for public environments—especially post-pandemic.
• Accessibility: Palm authentication offers a device-free option for people without smartphones or physical cards, improving financial access.

These benefits are especially relevant in emerging markets and among unbanked populations, where biometrics can play a crucial role in digital inclusion.

The Privacy Debate

Despite its promise, palm recognition raises valid privacy concerns. Since vascular patterns are immutable, a breach of biometric data could have long-lasting consequences.

Amazon states that palm data captured by Amazon One is encrypted and stored securely in the AWS Cloud, emphasizing that it is not shared with government agencies or advertisers. While this commitment offers some reassurance, privacy advocates remain cautious. The lack of universal regulation on biometric data storage, retention, and usage leaves room for concern—particularly in countries without strong consumer protection frameworks.

Building public trust will require transparency, user consent mechanisms, and robust oversight.

Regional Innovation: Palm Tech Expands Across the Middle East and Africa
In the Middle East and Africa, palm recognition is gaining traction beyond global tech giants. IDCentriq, a leader in biometric authentication, participated at Seamless Middle East 2025, held from 20–22 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre, where the company unveiled its ePalm palm-vein authentication technology, designed for secure, contactless identity verification in government and financial sectors.

Ali AlMeshal, CEO of PaymentsCo for the GCC, a regional subsidiary of IDCentriq, said: “Adopting technologies like ePalm will be crucial in fostering consumer confidence and driving growth in the digital payments landscape across the GCC.”

Led by Executive Chairman and CEO Muhanad Azzeh, IDCentriq is positioning ePalm as a homegrown solution tailored for the region’s shift toward cashless economies and digitally integrated public services.

Saudi Arabia’s Palm Vein Scanner Market Gathers Momentum

In Saudi Arabia, the palm vein scanner market is gaining traction as demand grows for secure, contactless biometric authentication across key sectors like healthcare, finance, and government, according to a report issued by 6wresearch in 2023. The technology’s ability to provide precise, tamper-resistant identity verification using subdermal vein patterns makes it particularly appealing in a country prioritizing advanced security infrastructure.

The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated adoption, as institutions sought hygienic, touch-free solutions for access control and identity management. Today, palm vein scanners are increasingly being deployed in high-security environments and customer-facing applications where trust and privacy are paramount.

Still, challenges remain, particularly around ensuring accuracy, public acceptance, and robust data protection. Key players active in the Saudi market include Fujitsu, Hitachi, and M2SYS Technology, all offering solutions tailored to the Kingdom’s growing need for scalable, secure authentication systems.

The Road Ahead

Palm recognition is still novel, but its rapid global rollout suggests it's more than a passing trend. As companies like Amazon expand internationally, and as fintechs across Asia and the Middle East chase frictionless user experiences, palm biometrics are emerging as a serious contender in the future of digital identity.

In Saudi Arabia and beyond, the next big step in financial access may require nothing more than a wave of the hand.

No card. No phone. Just a palm.

Ghada Ismail

Lean Technologies has become one of the standout players in MENA’s fintech space, building the infrastructure that helps businesses offer modern financial services. With its latest funding round, the company is entering a new chapter, focused on expanding its reach, deepening partnerships, and shaping the region’s Open Finance future.

In this interview, Mehdi Tazi, Chief Operating Officer at Lean, shares with Sharikat Mubasher what the company’s latest milestone means for its next phase, how it’s supporting everyone from early-stage startups to large enterprises, and why MENA’s fintech landscape is capturing global attention.

1. Lean’s recent $67.5 million Series B is one of the largest fintech raises in the region. What does this milestone represent for the company’s next phase?

It marks a significant step forward in our journey. We’ve spent the last few years building critical infrastructure, earning trust, and laying the groundwork for Open Finance in the region. With this raise, we’re accelerating product development, expanding regional coverage, and helping more businesses embed modern financial services into their platforms. We’re here to lead this next chapter, responsibly and at scale.

When we started Lean 5 years ago, we were struck by the lack of fintech penetration in the Middle East and inspired by the immense potential to create a unified fintech infrastructure platform that can reduce barriers to entry. We aspired to make financial data sharing seamless and accessible, while enabling instant, low-cost payments. Today, we have connected over one million user accounts and processed more than $2 billion in transactions and thanks to the support of forward-thinking regulators in the UAE and KSA, the region is leading the way with open banking standards that unlock amazing new possibilities.

2. What makes fintech in the MENA region an attractive investment opportunity for leading investors like Sequoia and General Catalyst, and what does their involvement say about the region’s venture capital landscape?

Fintech in MENA is evolving quickly and the fundamentals are stronger than ever. In Saudi Arabia, the number of licensed fintechs has grown from 89 in 2022 to over 200 by mid-2024. In the UAE, fintech accounted for nearly 40% of all venture funding in H1 2024, making it the region’s most heavily backed sector. That kind of year-on-year growth reflects a market that’s no longer catching up, it’s building from the ground up.

At the same time, the underlying infrastructure hasn’t kept pace. Demand for modern financial experiences is rising, but legacy systems are still holding many businesses back. That’s where Lean comes in, and why investors like Sequoia, General Catalyst, and Bain Capital are here.

Their involvement isn’t just a vote of confidence in Lean. It signals that global investors see MENA as one of the few regions where foundational fintech infrastructure is still being built, where companies can define the rails, not just build on top of them. That’s the opportunity, and that’s the bet.

3. How does Lean’s API platform reduce barriers to entry for fintech founders across MENA?

Historically, founders in MENA had to navigate months of bank integrations and fragmented infrastructure before launching a product. Lean removes that friction. With one secure API, businesses can access real-time bank payments and financial data without compromising on compliance or user trust.

Careem moved from costly card payments to seamless A2A bank transfers using our infrastructure. DAMAC sped up its payment processing by 24x, reducing wait times from hours to minutes to improve its collections process.

We are not just providing APIs. We are removing technical and regulatory barriers so that fintech teams can build meaningful solutions that help people manage money more efficiently and transparently.

4. How do you adapt your offering for large enterprises versus emerging fintechs?

At Lean, we start with the same powerful platform, but we shape how we deliver it around the needs of each customer.

Emerging fintechs are often looking to move quickly and experiment. They value speed, flexibility and a partner who can help them build fast. Larger enterprises, on the other hand, look for depth. They need systems that are secure, scalable and able to work smoothly within their existing set-up.

What makes the real difference is not just the technology, but the people behind it. We do not hand over a product and step away. Our teams work closely with our customers, helping them integrate the platform, adapt workflows, and get real value from day one. We bring the care and attention you would expect from a trusted partner, not just a provider.

This hands-on approach means our customers never feel left on their own. Whether it is a fintech launching something new or a major enterprise rolling out across regions, we are right there with them, making sure the solution fits, performs and grows with them.

Everything we do is shaped by one belief - when our customers succeed, so do we.

5. You’ve now processed over $2 billion in transactions through your platform. What operational strengths or strategic decisions helped you achieve that scale?

From day one, we focused on building payment infrastructure that solves real business problems; instant settlement, lower fees, and improved reliability, making payments viable at scale. While some businesses accepted bank payments, they faced slow, non-instant payments and spent hours on reconciliation, limiting their ability to scale. Others needed instant payment options but lacked a reliable alternative to costly card payments.

Our first priority was to digitize and streamline this flow, replacing legacy systems with an account-to-account payment experience that is instant, reliable and cost-effective. This was not just about improving efficiency. It was about creating a genuine alternative to legacy payment systems. At the same time, we invested in reliability, compliance and transparency so our clients could scale on a platform built for long-term trust. This focus on practical value and operational resilience is what enabled us to reach more than $2 billion in transaction volume. More importantly, it’s what allows our clients to scale with confidence.

6. With more than a million accounts connected via secure APIs, what does this tell us about user trust and the adoption of financial connectivity in MENA?

It tells us that users are ready, as long as the experience is built the right way.

Connecting a financial account is a high-trust action. We have spent years refining our consent flows, strengthening our infrastructure, and working closely with regulators to make that process as seamless, secure and transparent as possible.

The result is clear. More than one million accounts have been connected through Lean. That shows people are open to trying new financial experiences when the value is obvious and the infrastructure feels trustworthy.

We are also seeing strong engagement with our clients. For example, more than 50% of users on platforms like Sarwa, the all-in-one investment platform, choose to pay via Lean. That level of share of wallet shows not just adoption, but real trust and stickiness.

And it goes beyond convenience. For some of our clients, Lean is helping to drive genuine financial inclusion. Many expats arrive in the region with little or no credit history. Because we can help underwrite them using bank data, they can now access financial services they might have struggled to get before. We have seen this impact within our own team, where access to financial services has transformed individual lives. It is not just meaningful, it is personal, and it matters.

7. Lean supports over 300 companies across sectors, from ride-hailing to e-commerce and real estate. How are you tailoring your offering to serve such a broad client base?

We take a customer-first approach. Our strength lies in understanding the pain points and building infrastructure that solves them. Whether it is a digital wallet, a ride-hailing app or a property developer, we begin by focusing on the core problems rather than promoting product features.

Let's take Tabby as an example. They needed a better way to approve users with limited credit history. Credit bureau data wasn’t cutting it, and manual uploads were too slow. With Lean, they connected directly to customers’ bank data, improving approval rates by 8.9%, unlocking 50% more high-risk users, and reducing default risk by 4x.

e& money was dealing with high card fees and poor payment conversion. We helped them move to instant A2A payments, eliminating the card layer, saving $800,000 a year, and doubling customer return rates.

Tawuniya’s pain was operational. Claims were delayed due to manual verification and misrouted disbursements. We automated the process end-to-end, cut disbursement time by 50%, and helped them reach a 94.8% transaction success rate.

These outcomes are the result of targeted infrastructure solving real business problems in a scalable, measurable way.

8. What advice would you offer to startup teams building products in heavily regulated spaces like financial infrastructure?

Regulation is not an obstacle. It is part of the product. In a space like ours, trust and compliance are fundamental. My advice is to build for scale from day one. That means getting the right controls in place early, staying close to regulators, and understanding the operational implications of every decision you make. Moving fast is important, but moving responsibly is what keeps you in the game long-term.

9. What strategic priorities will define Lean’s next phase of growth?

We’re focused on three things: expanding our payments and data infrastructure, deepening adoption across key sectors, and supporting the market as Open Finance comes into shape.

The opportunity is significant. In MENA alone, the Arab Monetary Fund projects Open Finance to grow from $1.65 billion in 2022 to nearly $12 billion by 2027. As countries like the UAE and KSA move from policy to implementation, businesses are looking for partners who can help them adapt and build.

We’ve spent the past five years doing exactly that: building trusted infrastructure, integrating with banks, and working closely with regulators. Today, we’re helping over 300 enterprise clients like Careem, DAMAC, and e& money go live with real-time payments, account verification, and secure data access.

With the growing momentum, we’re well positioned to lead this next phase and scale impact across the region.

Ghada Ismail

When you’re building a startup, it’s easy to get caught up in the exciting stuff: user growth, building your product, closing deals. But behind the scenes, there’s one number quietly counting down your time: burn rate.

Burn rate is simply how fast you’re spending money every month. It tells you how long your cash will last before you need to bring in more, whether from investors or revenue.

Think of your startup like a plane on a runway. The longer the runway (your cash), the more time you have to take off (hit traction or raise your next round). But the faster you burn through cash, the shorter your runway gets. And if you don’t take off in time, you crash.

What Is Burn Rate, Really?

In simple terms, burn rate shows how much money your startup spends every month just to keep running.

There are two versions you should know:

• Gross Burn Rate: This is your total monthly spending on salaries, rent, tools, marketing, etc.
• Net Burn Rate: This is what really matters. It’s how much you’re losing each month after subtracting any revenue.

Example: If your startup spends SAR 400,000 per month and earns SAR 100,000 in revenue, your net burn rate is SAR 300,000. That’s the amount disappearing from your bank account every month.

Why Burn Rate Matters More Than You Think

Your burn rate isn’t just an accounting number; it’s your survival clock.

Let’s say you raised SAR 3 million. If your net burn rate is SAR 300,000 per month, you have 10 months of runway. That’s 10 months to hit a major milestone, raise another round, or start turning a profit.

If you don’t? You run out of cash. And when the money’s gone, your options shrink fast.

That’s why investors ask about your burn rate early in any conversation. It tells them how you manage money and how soon you’ll need more.

How to Calculate Your Runway

The formula is simple:
Runway = Cash in the Bank ÷ Net Burn Rate

Here’s a quick example:

• Cash: SAR 1,200,000
• Net burn: SAR 150,000/month
• Runway: 8 months

Knowing this helps you plan ahead, whether that means starting fundraising early or making some cost cuts to buy more time.

How to Tell If Your Burn Rate Is Too High

Here are a few warning signs:

• You’re hiring a big team before proving product-market fit
• Your marketing spend is high, but customer retention is low
• You’re scaling too soon, before demand is steady
• You’re counting on future funding that hasn’t landed yet

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to recheck your numbers and adjust your spending.

How to Keep Burn Rate Under Control

Managing your burn rate doesn’t mean cutting everything to the bone. It means spending wisely and keeping room to adapt. Here’s how:

1. Track it regularly
   Make burn rate part of your monthly reviews. Don’t wait until the bank balance gets drastically low.
2. Spend where it matters most
   Focus on things that push the business forward, like improving the product or acquiring users in smart, cost-effective ways.
3. Plan for delays
   Fundraising almost always takes longer than expected. If you think you have 9 months of runway, act like it’s only 6.
4. Adjust as things change
   As your revenue grows or expenses shift, update your burn rate and runway.
5. Avoid fixed costs early on
   Use freelancers, co-working spaces, and flexible tools until you really need to commit.

What This Means for Startups in Saudi Arabia

As Saudi Arabia’s startup scene grows, so does investor attention to burn rate. With more funding opportunities—from VCs to government programs like Monsha’at and Saudi Venture Capital—founders have access to capital, but also more pressure to use it wisely.

Today, local investors expect founders to show not just ambition, but capital discipline. Managing your burn rate smartly sends the message: “We’re building something valuable and we’re doing it responsibly.”

Wrapping things up…

Burn rate might sound like a dry finance term, but it’s one of the most important numbers for any founder to understand. It keeps you grounded. It helps you plan. And most importantly, it helps you stay in control of your startup’s future.

Because no matter how great your idea is or how big your market could be, if you run out of money, you run out of time.

Noha Gad

Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem has witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent years, driven largely by the Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the national economy and reducing oil dependency. This ambitious strategy stimulated a dynamic entrepreneurial environment by fostering innovation, supporting new business ventures, and encouraging private sector growth. The Saudi government launched various programs, funding initiatives, and regulatory reforms to establish a fertile ground for startups to thrive across different sectors, notably fintech, digital health, technology, and more.

The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha’at) plays a pivotal role in fostering startups within and beyond Saudi Arabia by providing critical upskilling, training, funding-related, and franchising services. In its latest quarterly report, Monsha’at highlighted that over 9,800 businesses benefited from Monsha’at Support Centers during the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, while more than 9,400 trainees availed themselves of Monsha’at e-Academy. Through its Support centers across the Kingdom, Monsha’at aspires to assist startups in preparing for international expansion.

Along with upskilling businesses, the authority launched the Tomoh Funding Program to empower the next generation of Saudi startups through robust financial enablement packages. In Q1-25, the market cap of Tomoh-backed on Nomu recorded $6.6 billion, accounting for 41.8% of the total Nomu market cap.

Additionally, Monahsa’at launched the Promising Innovative Enterprises/Ventures program to foster Saudi startups seeking global expansion. This program aims to facilitate the entry of local enterprises to global markets by enabling the participation of 18 Saudi startups in international exhibitions and accelerators to enhance their investment opportunities through regional and international expansion.

Monsha’at co-hosted and participated actively in the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) and the Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) as part of its commitment to linking Saudi startups with the global entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing exposure, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities to accelerate their growth and international reach.

Further, the authority initiated BIBAN, the global platform that bridges between local startups and global investors, ultimately fostering the global expansion of Saudi SMEs.

Key challenges facing Saudi startups in navigating global markets

Although the Saudi government exerts many efforts to back emerging enterprises to get off the ground and expand, these startups face several obstacles in navigating global markets. These challenges are:

• Understanding cultural nuances. Middle Eastern markets are deeply rooted in traditions and values that influence consumer behavior. Understanding cultural nuances and consumer behavior directly impacts startups’ ability to gain trust and connect with customers and succeed in diverse environments. This step helps startups seeking expansion in global markets to build trust and relationships, align business practices, and enhance cross-cultural teamwork.
• Regulatory Hurdles. Saudi startups must navigate and understand the regulatory complexities in global markets to ensure smooth operations, legal compliance, and sustainable growth. This step will enable startups to avoid operational delays, ensure compliance with legal laws, build credibility, and adapt to ethical and cultural norms. 
• Funding and investment barriers. Saudi startups may find it hard to access sufficient and appropriate funding, especially those lacking local ties. They can overcome this obstacle through a combination of government-backed programs, venture capital initiatives, and strategic partnerships.
• Building local talent. Talent acquisition and retention are critical factors to have the right skilled workforce. Startups must understand the aspirations and expectations of a workforce that values career growth and meaningful contributions. They can also focus on training programs to upskill employees and integrate their expertise with local market insights.
•  Logistics and infrastructure constraints directly impact startups’ ability to compete, scale, and deliver value internationally. By overcoming them, startups can easily gain access to the market and enhance global competitiveness, boost cost efficiency and scalability, and attract investments. To do so, startups must adopt technology and utilize AI-powered tools to optimize operations.
• Market competition and fragmentation. Entering new global markets often means competing with established local players who have deep market knowledge and brand loyalty. Saudi startups must differentiate themselves and offer unique value to gain traction. 

To overcome these challenges, startups must adopt the “Act local, think global” approach, which targets adapting products and marketing to local markets while maintaining global standards. They must also invest heavily in digital transformation and innovation to stay competitive internationally, while leveraging government programs, accelerators, and global exhibitions to gain exposure.

Startups further need to forge strategic partnerships with local entities and stakeholders in target countries, in addition to building robust legal and regulatory expertise or local advisory to navigate complexities.

Finally, Saudi startups are increasingly recognized as promising players in the global entrepreneurial landscape, demonstrating remarkable resilience and innovation despite facing significant challenges in their international expansion efforts. They can navigate complex hurdles, such as funding limitations, regulatory intricacies, and talent acquisition, supported by robust government initiatives and a dynamic ecosystem. Their ability to leverage strategic programs, such as Monsha’at’s international expansion projects and participation in global platforms like the EWC, underscores their growing ambition and capability to compete on the world stage.

A key element in the success of the Saudi startups abroad is their commitment to cultural adaptation. Respecting and understanding local customs, consumer behaviors, and business etiquette are essential to building trust and establishing meaningful connections in diverse markets. This cultural intelligence exceeds language translation; it includes tailoring products, marketing strategies, and customer experiences to resonate authentically with target audiences.

Noha Gad

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the global economy and transformed the way businesses operate. Companies, especially startups, seized the shift to adopting remote work to cut costs, access global talent, and establish agile and location-independent businesses. Before 2020, remote work was a niche concept for many industries, but lockdowns and social distancing measures proved that teams could remain productive outside traditional offices. This realization, combined with advancements in digital tools, accelerated the rise of remote startups.

A recent report by Robert Half, the global human resource consulting firm, revealed that fully remote jobs have increased from 10% in early 2023 to 15% by the end of 2024. Other studies showed that remote workers are 13-35% more productive than their in-office counterparts.

In 2025, remote startups are no longer an exception; they are becoming the norm. Remote work democratized entrepreneurship and enabled talent from around the world to collaborate and innovate without the constraints of geography. As a result, the entrepreneurship landscape witnessed a significant surge in remote startups that are leaner, more diverse, and often more resilient than their traditional counterparts. 

What are remote startups?

A remote startup is a company that operates entirely or primarily without a physical office. All team members, including founders, engineers, designers, marketers, and support staff, work from different locations, often across time zones. This type of startup relies on digital tools to collaborate, communicate, and build its products or services. 

There are three types of remote startups: fully remote, partially remote, and distributed startups. In fully remote startups, the entire company operates from home, without any physical office space. Meanwhile, partially remote startups require some team members to be based in a physical office while other members work remotely. 

The distributed startup is a company that is physically based in one location, but employees are working remotely from all over the world.

Benefits of remote work

Remote work mode offers multiple advantages for both startups and employees. For startups, remote work provides several benefits, such as:

• Access to a global talent pool. Startups can hire specialists from around the world without worrying about geographic boundaries. This diversity fuels creativity and provides insights into international markets.
• Cost saving. Remote work allows startups to reduce expenses related to office space, utilities, commuting, and relocation, and redirect them to R&D, marketing, or scaling operations.
• Flexibility and enhanced productivity. Flexible schedules let employees work during their peak hours, whether they’re night owls or early risers. 
• Enhanced employee satisfaction. Remote work improves work-life balance, reducing burnout and turnover.

Remote work helps employees increase productivity and stay focused on their tasks. Flexible work hours can also contribute to reducing absenteeism, enabling employees to organize their days as they see fit. With less time spent commuting, employees have more time for themselves and can improve the quality of life by optimizing time for exercise, cooking, or simply resting.

Challenges facing remote startups 

Although remote work offers incredible flexibility and global opportunities, it also comes with unique challenges that can make or break a startup. Maintaining company culture is one of the biggest hurdles facing startups as they find difficulty in fostering team cohesion and shared values without physical interaction. Communication challenges, such as misaligned time zones and reliance on written communication, can lead to misunderstandings. Thus, startups must invest in tools and protocols to bridge these gaps.

Another key challenge is managing performance. Startups may find difficulties in monitoring and evaluating remote employee productivity. To address this challenge, they need to set clear KPIs, feedback mechanisms, and project management systems.

Moreover, remote teams increase exposure to security risks and cyber threats. A single unsecured Wi-Fi network could compromise sensitive data, making robust cybersecurity protocols non-negotiable. 

Finally, the rise of remote startups marks a fundamental shift in how businesses are built and operated. As they become the new norm, remote startups are reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape, making it more inclusive, agile, and resilient for the future. This type of startup unlocks global talent, reduces costs, and fosters greater flexibility and productivity, while breaking down geographic barriers.

Noha Gad

Saudi Arabia’s sports sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation fueled by ambitious investments and strategic initiatives aligned with Vision 2030. The value of this rapidly expanding market is expected to triple by 2030, driven by major infrastructure projects, hosting global events like the FIFA World Cup 2034, and the growing emphasis on grassroots development and professional leagues. 

Sports technology platforms, such as Grintafy, play a pivotal role in advancing this evolving sector. By leveraging innovative tools like AI analytics, blockchain, and fintech solutions, Grintafy empowers amateur players, clubs, and scouts with data-driven insights and seamless connectivity.

Guided by a clear mission to democratize talent discovery and build Saudi Arabia’s future football stars, Grintafy envisions the Kingdom as a global beacon of sports excellence. Its vision is realized through strategic collaborations with key stakeholders, including clubs, federations, and cutting-edge Web3 innovators, enabling the platform’s expansion across the MENA region and beyond.

Sharikat Mubasher held an interview with Founder and CEO, Majdi Allulu, to discover more about Grintafy’s business model, regional and global expansions, as well as its strategy to position Saudi Arabia as a global sports hub. 

What was the driving force behind launching Grintafy, and what is its core mission in Saudi Arabia?

Grintafy was founded and driven by the ambition to “level the playing field” for amateur footballers by enabling them to build their football CVs, rate performances, organize games, and connect with scouts and clubs. 

The core mission in Saudi Arabia is to democratize talent discovery, support Vision 2030’s goals, and serve as a launchpad for the national team’s next generation.

How does Grintafy set itself apart from other talent-scouting platforms regionally and globally?

• Scale: With nearly 2.5 million registered users across the Middle East, Grintafy stands as the region’s largest talent discovery platform. 
• Comprehensive features: It offers a full ecosystem—organizing games, performance ratings, CV building (“Grinta Card”), messaging, live streaming, and fintech payments like in-app “G-coins” 
• Web3 capabilities: Strategic investment by Chiliz and Adaverse positions Grintafy at the forefront of using blockchain for transparent player ratings, performance certification, and engagement.

How do you utilize emerging technologies like AI or data analytics to enhance talent discovery?

The platform already harnesses AI and machine learning to support live-streaming features and performance analysis. We have the plans to use AI-driven analytics to elevate scouting accuracy, refine player rankings, and extract deeper insights from performance data.

With Saudi Arabia set to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, how will Grintafy contribute to preparing local talent for this global stage?

Grintafy aims to be instrumental in preparing Saudi talent for the global stage by:

• Continuously identifying emerging local players through its platform and scouting network.
• Aligning with Vision 2030, with investors like Wa’ed emphasizing the goal of discovering the “future Saudi National Team” on Grintafy.
• Expanding development initiatives, grassroots tryouts, and performance tracking programs designed to elevate player readiness by 2034.

How will your recent partnership with Resal empower Saudi sports talents? And are there other strategic partnerships in the pipeline to further Grintafy’s mission? 

The recent Resal partnership integrates loyalty rewards with Grintafy: athletes earn digital incentives through performance and engagement, driving motivation and sustained development.

We have several regional and global partnerships in the final stages of completion. This includes international clubs and leagues. 

What are Grintafy’s strategies to expand within and beyond Saudi Arabia? 

• Regional expansion: Active in Egypt since 2021—with partnerships with West Ham United, the Egyptian Ministry of Youth & Sports, Cádiz CF—and planning to expand further across MENA.
• International push: Supported by investors like Chiliz and Adaverse, aiming to connect Saudi talent with European and South American football ecosystems.

How do you assess the current state of Saudi Arabia’s sports ecosystem? And how did government initiatives support the sector?

The Saudi sports ecosystem is rapidly evolving, heavily fueled by Vision 2030 initiatives focused on national sports development, infrastructure, and private sector engagement. Government support is substantial—from funding early-stage sportstech ventures (like Wa’ed backing Grintafy), to incentivizing Web3 innovation and international talent initiatives, strongly supportive of platforms like Grintafy.

What is Grintafy’s long-term vision for shaping Saudi Arabia as a global sports hub?

Grintafy envisions Saudi Arabia emerging as a globally competitive sport—and especially football—hub by:

• Empowering grassroots development and bridging amateur players to professional opportunities.
• Integrating advanced Web3 and AI tools to set global standards for talent discovery.
• Fostering global partnerships that ensure Saudi players are scouted and play internationally.
• Feeding homegrown talent into national teams, championships, and global leagues, thereby reinforcing the Kingdom as a center of sports excellence.

In preparation for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, Grintafy focuses on identifying and developing local talent through performance tracking, trials, and organized matches, aiming to build a strong generation of Saudi players ready to compete internationally.

The platform utilizes advanced technologies such as AI analytics, live streaming, fintech payments, and blockchain credentials to enhance talent discovery and ensure transparent, secure player data management.

Finally, innovations in sports tech and infrastructure are backed by Vision 2030 and the government's support to accelerate technology adoption, empowering platforms like Grintafy to elevate Saudi Arabia as a global sports hub.

Ghada Ismail

What if you could read a customer’s mind before they even said a word? Not long ago, startups had to rely on slow focus groups and basic surveys to guess what customers liked. Today, they can track eye movements, monitor reactions through smartwatches and other tools to quickly see what grabs attention, whether it’s a webpage, a TikTok video, or a price tag. This instant insight into customer behavior is powering a growing market called the ‘Neuromarketing’ that is now worth $1.56 billion and expected to more than double by 2034. The most successful new companies are using neuroscience-based strategies to trigger automatic customer responses. By understanding how brains make decisions, you can design marketing that converts at much higher rates.

This article reveals how to ethically apply neuromarketing principles and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) to accelerate your startup's growth.

The Neuroscience Behind Impulse Marketing

If neuromarketing provides the brain scan, fear of missing out supplies the adrenaline. Around six in ten consumers admit they have made a “reactive” purchase within 24 hours of feeling FOMO, and the share spikes to 69 percent among millennials. Psychologists trace the phenomenon to the brain’s reward network: when we think other people are seizing an opportunity we might lose, dopamine surges, nudging us toward instant action. Social platforms have weaponized that impulse with endless highlight reels; savvy startups are learning to hard-wire it into product design, price promotions, and even push notifications.

From lab coats to laptops: the new neuromarketing stack

The classic toolkit pairs methods that read the body with AI that predicts behavior. Functional MRI offers millimeter-level maps of activity deep inside the brain, while EEG headsets (EEG headsets are wearable devices that measure electrical activity in the brain using a technology called electroencephalography) translate surface waves into real-time attention scores. Eye-tracking cameras pinpoint the exact pixel that attracts or repels a viewer; galvanic-skin sensors detect a micro-bead of sweat signaling arousal. What once required a research hospital now runs in a browser or on a fitness band, putting neuroscience within reach of a five-person SaaS team. 

Where neuromarketing meets FOMO

The power comes when these tools are used to calibrate scarcity messages, social-proof counters, and countdown timers with scientific precision. Imagine an e-commerce startup testing two product pages. In version A, the headline reads “Only 3 left in stock”; in version B, it says “In stock”. An AI model trained on thousands of eye-tracking records predicts that the first phrasing holds gaze 1.8 seconds longer.  The founders push version A live and watch conversions climb. They have literally measured FOMO in the brain.

FOMO in Action: How Fear of Missing Out Drives Spending Habits
Fear of missing out isn’t just a feeling; it’s reshaping consumer behavior, especially among younger generations. From impulse buys to overspending on experiences, FOMO is a strong psychological trigger that’s influencing the way people make financial decisions. Here are some key statistics that highlight just how widespread and powerful its impact has become:

• 60% of consumers say they’ve made a purchase because of FOMO, often within 24 hours.
• A OnePoll study found that 69% of Americans have experienced FOMO, with social media as a major driver.
• According to the American Psychological Association, 56% of U.S. adults felt FOMO during the COVID-19 pandemic—again, fueled by social media.
• An Experian report showed that 69% of millennials overspend to keep up with peers and avoid FOMO.
• A TD Ameritrade survey revealed that 73% of millennials had spent money they didn’t have on experiences to avoid feeling left out.

Neuromarketing: Your Secret Weapon for Higher Conversions

Neuromarketing gives you an unfair advantage by revealing what actually drives decisions . Here's how to use it:

1. Emotion Beats Reason Every Time

• People justify purchases with logic but buy based on feelings
• Use language that triggers excitement, nostalgia or belonging
• Example: "Join thousands of happy customers" works better than "Our product has these features"

2. The Magic of Storytelling

• Our brains are wired to remember stories 22x better than facts
• Frame your product as solving a dramatic problem
• Show transformation rather than listing benefits

3. Visuals That Work Subconsciously

• Red = urgency (perfect for "Buy Now" buttons)
• Blue = trust (ideal for pricing pages)
• Faces looking at your Call to Action (CTA) button increase clicks by 10-15%

4. Simplify Choices to Boost Sales

• Too many options paralyze decision-making
• Offer 3 versions max (good/better/best)
• Highlight one recommended option

FOMO: The Growth Hack Every Startup Should Use

FOMO taps into our deep fear of social exclusion. When used ethically, it can dramatically improve conversion rates.

Proven FOMO Tactics That Work:

Limited Availability

• "Only 3 spots left in our program"
• "First 100 customers get lifetime discount"

 Social Proof Triggers

• "Join 2,500+ founders using our tool"
• Live counters showing recent signups

 Exclusive Access

• "Invite-only early access"
• "VIP members get 24-hour head start"

 Urgency Without Being Pushy

• "Early bird pricing ends Friday"
• “Registration closes in 48 hours”

Combining Neuromarketing + FOMO for Maximum Impact

The most effective startups layer these techniques:

1. The Story + Scarcity Combo

• Tell an emotional brand story
• Add "Limited edition" or "Only available this week"

2. Social Proof + Urgency

• "500+ customers joined this week"
• "Next price increase in 3 days"

3. Gamification + Exclusivity

• Progress bars showing signup milestones
• "Top 50 users get premium features free"

The Playbook for Founders

Start by figuring out where people are dropping off. Are visitors leaving before scrolling? Upload a screenshot of your page into an AI tool like Predict AI to spot areas that people tend to ignore.

Next, create real urgency—but keep it honest. Limited-edition offers, time-based pricing, or exclusive waitlists can trigger FOMO, but fake countdown timers will only hurt your credibility.

Then, test quickly and often. Because brain-based feedback can come in fast, your growth team could test ten headline versions before lunchtime.

Finally, close the loop with social proof. Show how many people have signed up or made a purchase recently—when users see others taking action, they’re more likely to follow through.

Staying Ethical: Where Neuromarketing Meets Regulation

Tracking eye movements or physical responses isn’t exactly mind-reading, but neuromarketing comes close and that raises important ethical questions. In places like Europe, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) treats biometric data (like facial expressions or heart rate) as highly sensitive. That means companies must get clear, informed consent and use the data only for a specific, stated purpose. California’s Consumer Privacy Rights Act (CPRA) has similar rules.

But legal compliance is just the starting point. Founders also need to think about ethics: When does smart marketing cross the line into manipulation? For example, pretending a countdown timer is real when it’s not may boost short-term sales, but it damages trust. On the other hand, being honest and offering features like an easy “undo” option after an impulse purchase builds long-term loyalty and customer lifetime value. In short, transparency and respect aren't just good ethics—they're smart business.

Implementation Guide for Startups

Step 1: Audit Your Current Marketing

• Where can you add more emotional triggers?
• Do you show social proof effectively?
• Is your pricing structure simple?

Step 2: Run FOMO Experiments

• Test limited-time offers vs evergreen pricing
• Try different urgency messages
• See which message leads to more clicks, sign-ups, or sales

Step 3: Refine Based on Data

• Track which emotional triggers work best
• Optimize your most effective FOMO tactics
• Scale what works, kill what doesn't

The bottom line

Great products always solve a problem. Neuromarketing simply lets founders prove—rather than guess—whether their solution hits the brain’s sweet spot. Pair brain-based validation with FOMO, and you’ve got a growth engine that turns curiosity into clicks and clicks into conversions. The opportunity is enormous, but so is the responsibility. Startups that wield these tools with empathy and transparency will gain more than mere clicks; they will earn trust in a market where attention is scarce and FOMO is everywhere.

Your move: Will you keep using old marketing playbooks, or start leveraging how brains actually work?

Noha Gad 

The construction sector in Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by ambitious government initiatives and a strategic vision to diversify the economy beyond oil dependence. This promising industry is projected to see a robust growth as of 2025, with an expected expansion rate of around 4.4% to 6.2%, according to a recent report by Global Data. This growth will be driven by massive investments in infrastructure, housing, commercial, and industrial projects.

Additionally, the construction sector in Saudi Arabia is anticipated to reach $174.3 billion by 2030, from $104.7 billion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7%, as stated in a recent report by Research and Markets, one of the world’s largest research market stores. 

At the core of this surge are Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects, such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project, which aim to establish the Kingdom as a global hub for innovation, tourism, and entertainment. These projects, alongside urban development in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, are reshaping the economic landscape and creating vast opportunities for construction companies and suppliers

Technology is playing an increasingly pivotal role in this promising sector. The adoption of advanced construction technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), modular construction, 3D printing, and smart infrastructure systems, is accelerating efficiency, reducing costs, and improving project management. 

Bisrat Degefa, Co-founder and CEO of TruBuild, a leading Saudi construction tech company, affirmed that the adoption of technology in the construction sector “has moved from experimental pilots to core strategy.” He highlighted that less than 10% of top developers in the region used digital procurement tools in 2019, while in 2025, over 60% are running live programs.

Another key player in the Saudi construction technology sector is WakeCap, a Riyadh-based company that integrates smart technology in the construction industry, focusing on enhancing safety, productivity, and efficiency. According to CEO Hassan Albalawi, mandating technology on major projects plays a pivotal role in promoting transparency, ensuring better compliance rates, and transforming safety protocols and practices in the construction industry and beyond. 

Construction technologies vs. traditional methods

Although traditional construction methods in Saudi Arabia emphasize cultural preservation and adaptation to local climates, advanced technologies are transforming the sector by enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and scalability, ultimately accelerating the Kingdom’s broader economic diversification and urban development ambitions.

The integration of technology is essential in overcoming regulatory complexities and administrative challenges, streamlining project approvals, and enhancing risk management. For instance, traditional tender evaluations often take 4–6 weeks and involve multiple full-time reviewers; however, they provide inconsistent and subjective results. Meanwhile, leveraging a rules-based scoring system, enhanced by machine-learning insights, helps companies complete evaluations in 5-7 days with just two reviewers, saving up to 85% of costs, 70% of cycle times, and significantly fewer downstream variations.

This technological evolution not only supports the rapid pace of construction but also positions Saudi Arabia’s construction sector as a model for modernization and economic diversification in the region.

Key technologies that reshape the Saudi construction sector:

Advanced construction technologies are significantly improving both speed and sustainability in the Saudi construction sector in alignment with Vision 2030. Key technological advancements reshaping the industry include:

• 3D Printing: This technology accelerates construction timelines by enabling the rapid, cost-effective fabrication of complex building components from materials like concrete and polymers.
• Modular and prefabricated construction: Pre-assembled building sections are increasingly used in major giga-projects. This method enhances speed, quality, and cost control, crucial for meeting ambitious infrastructure deadlines.
• Building Information Modeling (BIM): BIM provides detailed digital 3D models that improve collaboration among architects, engineers, and contractors. Its growing use in projects contributes to reducing errors, streamlining workflows, and cutting costs.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning: AI automates routine tasks, optimizes labor allocation, predicts project risks, and improves safety on construction sites, offering real-time insights that help avoid delays and cost overruns.
• Internet of Things (IoT) and Automation: IoT devices enable real-time monitoring of equipment, materials, and site conditions, enhancing resource management and safety. Meanwhile, automation reduces manual labor and repetitive tasks, allowing teams to focus on strategic aspects of projects.
• Green building technologies: Saudi Arabia is integrating solar panels, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and advanced insulation to reduce the environmental footprint of construction. These practices align with global standards and the Kingdom’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

To fully adopt innovative construction technologies in Saudi Arabia, several key regulatory changes are needed to create a flexible, supportive, and secure environment that fosters innovation while addressing emerging risks, including:

• Aligning regulations with technology development.
• Promoting flexibility and risk management.
• Enhancing collaboration among stakeholdersز
• Developing clear AI and data governance.
• Streamlining permitting and compliance processes.

The future of construction technology in Saudi Arabia

The future of construction technology in Saudi Arabia is set to be transformative, driven by ambitious national goals under Vision 2030 and massive investments exceeding $3 trillion aimed at economic diversification and urban modernization.

Degfa expected a widespread adoption of AI-assisted workflows, contracts linked to digital twins, live ESG and schedule tracking, blockchain-enabled supplier payments, and automated compliance checks for codes and Saudization. “With its combination of scale, urgency, and regulatory support, Saudi Arabia is on track to become a global leader in AI-powered construction,” he said.

Despite challenges related to regulatory complexity and administrative hurdles, the integration of advanced technologies is expected to redefine the Saudi construction sector by 2030, making it a global leader in innovative, sustainable, and efficient building practices. This technological revolution supports Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of economic diversification, job creation, and environmental stewardship, positioning construction as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s future development.

Noha Gad

The construction tech sector in Saudi Arabia is witnessing a transformative phase, driven by Vision 2030’s ambitious infrastructure projects and a growing focus on innovation. From smart cities to large-scale renewable energy initiatives, cutting-edge technologies such as AI, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and modular construction are reshaping the industry.

TruBuild, a leading Saudi construction tech company, is at the forefront of this evolution, delivering innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and digital transformation across the Kingdom.

Known for its advanced project management tools, automation, and data-driven insights, TruBuild has become a trusted partner for major developers and government entities, supporting Saudi Arabia’s mission to modernize its infrastructure with smarter, faster, and more cost-effective methodologies. 

Sharikat Mubasher held an interview with TruBuild’s Co-founder and CEO, Bisrat Degefa, to delve deeper into the trends, challenges, and future of construction tech in the Kingdom and the broader region.

TruBuild uses AI to streamline procurement and project management. How does the platform uniquely address delays and cost overruns compared to traditional methods?

Traditional tender evaluations often take 4–6 weeks, involve multiple full-time reviewers, and still produce inconsistent, subjective results. TruBuild transforms this process by ingesting thousands of pages of technical, commercial, and contractual data in minutes. It applies a transparent, rules-based scoring system enhanced by machine-learning insights and generates a fully auditable trail for every action. The result: evaluations are completed in 5–7 days by just two reviewers, with up to 85% cost savings, 70% faster cycle times, and significantly fewer downstream variations—thanks to early risk identification.

How do you see construction tech adoption today in Saudi Arabia and the wider region?

Adoption has moved from experimental pilots to core strategy. In 2019, fewer than 10% of top developers in the region used digital procurement tools; by 2025, over 60% are running live programs. Cloud-based PMIS adoption has grown from 20% to more than half. Saudi Arabia leads the charge, supported by mandates around BIM, e-tendering, and local data residency. What was once seen as optional is now essential to meet the region’s ambitious delivery timelines and scale.

What key challenges does TruBuild face in modernizing construction tech in Saudi Arabia and the GCC, and how have you tackled them?
Change aversion is a major hurdle—many teams still believe Excel is “good enough.” So, we built TruBuild to feel familiar: spreadsheet-style, no-code, and easy to learn in a single-day onboarding session. Data sovereignty concerns are resolved with fully Saudi-hosted deployments, compliant with ISO 27001 and NCA-ECC standards. To address fragmented procurement practices, we offer out-of-the-box templates for NEC, FIDIC, and local regulations. And we tackle skill gaps through embedded guidance and CPD-certified training delivered in collaboration with regional industry bodies.

You recently secured a $1 million seed round. How will this capital accelerate TruBuild’s growth?
 The funding enables us to scale our engineering, domain, and commercial teams. We’re launching a commercial evaluation module in Q3 2025 with an Arabic NLP interface and expanding go-to-market partnerships with leading project management consultancies to accelerate adoption across the region.

What are the company’s expansion plans in Saudi Arabia and the broader region?
 In Saudi Arabia, we are deepening our engagements with PIF subsidiaries and giga-projects. Regionally, we plan to enter the UAE and Qatar in 2025 through local system integrators, followed by targeted expansion into the UK and US markets, where we see strong demand for AI-driven construction tools.

How does TruBuild align with Vision 2030’s goals to digitize construction and localize technology?
 Vision 2030 calls for 70% local content, improved productivity, and greater transparency. TruBuild is designed and led from Saudi Arabia, and our clients are already seeing over 50% savings in procurement resource hours. The Vision’s delivery pace simply cannot be supported by legacy workflows. TruBuild shifts procurement from reactive to proactive, enabling faster, more accurate, and fully auditable decisions. Every riyal is tracked and justified, ensuring critical projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest standards.

How do you expect construction tech to evolve in Saudi Arabia over the next five years?
We expect widespread adoption of AI-assisted workflows, contracts linked to digital twins, live ESG and schedule tracking, blockchain-enabled supplier payments, and automated compliance checks for codes and Saudization. With its combination of scale, urgency, and regulatory support, Saudi Arabia is on track to become a global leader in AI-powered construction, and TruBuild aims to be at the forefront of that evolution.