*Badir is a Technology Incubator Program launched by King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology in 2007*

1. How big is the tech entrepreneurship market in Saudi at present? And how quickly is it growing?

Despite the difficulties regarding statistics on how big is the entrepreneurship market in Saudi Arabia, it is clear that the kingdom is attracting more startups in recent years, which I think is partly due to the government’s effort to encourage innovation and foster entrepreneurship among Saudis.

The Saudi government attaches a special priority to the tech entrepreneurship sector, which is one of the key pillars of the diversification of national income sources, sustainable domestic economic growth, job creation, as well as strengthening the kingdom’s capabilities for moving towards a post-oil economy.

2. Which are the tech areas where you see most interest and opportunity?

Saudi Arabia offers huge potential for startups focusing on fintech, e-commerce, and education technology. I believe these sectors will be a top priority for investors in the next few years.

3. What are the biggest challenges facing entrepreneurs in Saudi?

I think capital is a main and universal challenge that startups are facing. Venture funding is essential to grow startups at each stage of funding where they have yet to break even or require further funding to achieve scale and growth.

Source Credit: Gulf Business
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