Saudi Arabia has been recognized as the fastest-growing startup ecosystem in the world, according to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025 released by StartupBlink. The country achieved an impressive growth rate exceeding 200%, making it the only nation in the global top 100 to reach such a milestone. This achievement has also earned Saudi Arabia the title of StartupBlink’s first-ever Country of the Year.

The index ranks 1,400 cities and 110 countries, highlighting key players in the global innovation economy. The report was compiled in collaboration with major data partners, including Crunchbase and Semrush, as well as over 100 governments worldwide.

In addition to its overall growth, three cities in Saudi Arabia have made their mark in the global rankings, all experiencing significant upward movement. Riyadh, in particular, has risen to 3rd place in the Middle East startup ecosystem rankings and has demonstrated consistent annual growth since 2022. The score gap between Riyadh and Dubai has narrowed dramatically, decreasing from over three times in 2024 to under two times in 2025.

Riyadh also ranks 14th globally in Transportation and 23rd in Foodtech, while placing 28th in both Edtech and Marketing. Notably, Riyadh boasts the highest growth rate—over 130%—among the top 100 cities worldwide. Meanwhile, Jeddah has climbed four spots to enter the top 10 in the Middle East, and Dammam has risen to 12th place in the region after two years of steady progress.

Within the Gulf Cooperation Council, Riyadh is ranked 2nd, Jeddah 4th, and Dammam 6th. Additionally, Medina has made its debut in the global top 1,000 for the first time, marking a significant development for the country’s startup landscape.