Selina Bieber, Vice President for International Markets at GoDaddy

Digitalisation has transformed entrepreneurship, especially at its inception. An increasing number of small businesses are launching via platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or WhatsApp, bypassing traditional websites. These social-first entrepreneurs meet customers where they already are, turning social media from a mere communication tool into a business.

According to the GoDaddy 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Survey, over one in five (22%) of small business owners in MENA primarily run their business on social media. This shift underscores the growing significance of social commerce, particularly for solo entrepreneurs and part-time founders.

However, building a business solely on social platforms has its limitations. While visibility is high, ownership and control are minimal. Algorithm changes or platform policies can disrupt a business’s presence and income overnight. Moreover, consumers often seek additional verification before making a purchase. 

In Germany, where trust is paramount, having a professional website can significantly enhance a business’s credibility. The State of Digital Commerce in MENA 2024 Report by Checkout highlighted that 73% of online shoppers in MENA are confident in making purchases from businesses with professional websites, rather than relying solely on social media. 

Microtools Bridge the Gap
The market responded with lightweight tools tailored for social-first founders. Solutions like GoDaddy’s Show In Bio enable entrepreneurs to build branded micro-sites, digital product catalogs, and smart links that centralize their business presence without requiring advanced technical skills. These tools integrate seamlessly with social platforms while granting founders greater control.

AI Fuels Smarter, Faster Entrepreneurship
Artificial intelligence empowers founders to transition from idea to execution swiftly, helping craft product descriptions, develop pricing models, and automate customer interactions. GoDaddy data indicates that AI-supported tools can save entrepreneurs up to 10 hours per week—a substantial benefit for time-constrained small business owners. Beyond time savings, AI democratizes access, enabling anyone to present a professional front, experiment with new ideas, and scale efficiently.

And while social platforms are powerful launchpads for connecting with customers, true staying power comes from owning your presence online. Having a dedicated website paired with smart, social-integrated tools like Show in Bio not only reinforces credibility but also provides a layer of trust and permanence that social channels alone can’t deliver. In an environment where impersonations and questionable accounts are not uncommon, especially on social media, customers often verify whether a business has a legitimate website before making a purchase decision.

Social-First, but Not Platform-Dependent
The new generation of entrepreneurs is pragmatic, digitally native, and driven by a desire for independence. They initiate their ventures where their audiences are—on social media—but increasingly seek tools that provide control, flexibility, and a distinct identity beyond the scroll. Combining social-first strategies with a professional website not only enhances credibility but also ensures long-term viability. With the right mix of AI and accessible microtools, transitioning from a side hustle to a sustainable business is more attainable than ever. Social-first may be the entry point, but ownership and your own digital presence are the future.

Ghada Ismail

PARAGON is rethinking what workspaces can be. With smart design, built-in services, and a strong focus on community, its developments go beyond real estate; they support how people actually work and grow. At the center of this vision is WORK IN, a ready-to-operate workspace model built for startups and SMEs in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital.

“We’re not just imagining that future—we’re building it,” says Ahmed Shaarawy, VP of Commercial Affairs at Paragon Developments. In this interview, he shares how PARAGON is creating smarter, more sustainable workspaces and why the model is ready to scale beyond Egypt.

What workspace features do startups value most today, and how does WORK IN deliver on them?

Today’s startups and SMEs prioritize flexibility, scalability, operational efficiency, and access to value-added services—and WORK IN at PARAGON.3 was purposefully designed to meet these needs. Located in a prime spot in the heart of the New Administrative Capital’s Financial District—directly facing the Presidential Palace—WORK IN delivers more than just office space; it offers a fully integrated, future-ready regenerative space that embodies PARAGON’s core pillars: Design, Community, Innovation, and Sustainability. 

Paragon adopts a ready-to-operate model that eliminates barriers

Understanding the challenges startups face—such as limited resources, setup delays, and operational complexities—we created a ready-to-operate model that eliminates these barriers. WORK IN offers a range of smart, fully serviced office spaces between 15 and 50 square meters, allowing businesses to scale seamlessly as they grow. Each unit is supported by high-speed internet, reception services, printing facilities, relaxation lounges, and concierge assistance, all within a professional and adaptable setting.

What truly sets WORK IN apart is the comprehensive ecosystem built around it. Clients gain access to marketing, legal, and accounting services, giving them a competitive edge and allowing them to focus solely on growth. In addition, of course, to PARAGON HUB, which offers dynamic spaces for meetups, events, and endless networking opportunities.—empowering them to focus on growth while we handle the rest.

By integrating smart design, operational support, and community-building features, WORK IN is not only redefining modern workspaces—it’s shaping the future of professional environments in Egypt, fostering innovation, collaboration, and long-term business success.

What operational challenges did you overcome in launching a smart & sustainable workspace model? 

Launching a smart workspace model like WORK IN required overcoming a range of operational challenges, particularly within Egypt’s regulatory and infrastructure landscape. Implementing an intelligent, tech-integrated environment meant aligning multiple systems—from IoT-enabled sensors and centralized Building Management Systems (BMS) to user-facing mobile applications that enhance accessibility and control. Ensuring these technologies worked seamlessly required close collaboration with tech partners, construction teams, and regulatory bodies, all while maintaining our high standards of functionality, comfort, and sustainability.

At PARAGON, we turned these challenges into opportunities to innovate. By embedding sustainability and smart systems into every stage of development, we’ve created regenerative workspaces that not only meet global efficiency standards but are also tailored to the Egyptian context. Our strategic partnership with Schneider Electric has enabled us to deploy advanced energy-saving technologies that support occupant well-being while significantly reducing environmental impact. Today, all PARAGON buildings are LEED-accredited, and PARAGON 1 proudly holds a SmartScore Certificate, making it one of Egypt’s first truly smart and sustainable office buildings.

How does PARAGON HUB go beyond the workspace to create real growth opportunities for startups and SMEs?

PARAGON HUB goes far beyond the traditional workspace by serving as a growth platform and dynamic ecosystem for startups and SMEs. At its very core is the PARAGON Hub Physical Facility—a vibrant social space that brings people together beyond their office walls. It redefines the modern mixed-use workspace by creating a community-centered environment where collaboration, networking, and innovation intersect seamlessly across all PARAGON buildings.

More than just infrastructure, PARAGON HUB fosters a culture of connection and growth. Through curated events, mentorship opportunities, and knowledge-sharing sessions, it empowers members to build meaningful relationships and gain real insights that drive success. By blending physical space with business enablement, PARAGON HUB becomes not just where work happens, but where growth is made possible.

Do you see potential for a WORK IN-style model in Saudi Arabia’s growing startup hubs like Riyadh or NEOM? 

Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving urban landscape—particularly in innovation-driven hubs like Riyadh and NEOM—presents a strong opportunity for exporting the WORK IN model. These cities are fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs who require agile, tech-enabled, and fully serviced workspaces that support rapid growth. That’s exactly what WORK IN delivers.

Our core values align well with KSA’s national focus on digital transformation, sustainability, and economic diversification. With its emphasis on flexibility, smart infrastructure, and integrated support services, the model is well-suited to meet the needs of fast-scaling startups in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia’s national focus on digital transformation, sustainability, and economic diversification aligns closely with PARAGON’s core values: Design, Community, Innovation, and Sustainability.

We see strong potential to replicate and tailor WORK IN to the Saudi market—leveraging its scalable framework to contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s startup ecosystem while supporting its broader vision for future-ready, smart urban development.

With Paragon’s strong global sales, is Saudi Arabia part of your regional expansion plans?

Our expansion into Saudi Arabia and other Arab markets is a strategic step in PARAGON’s journey to become a regional leader in smart, sustainable development. These markets offer tremendous opportunities, especially in Saudi Arabia, where Vision 2030 is accelerating demand for innovative and integrated real estate solutions. There’s a growing appetite for high-performance, community-centered spaces that support economic growth and diversification.

We aim to complete 360,000 sqm of integrated mixed-use developments in Saudi Arabia

Looking ahead, Paragon is preparing to expand its footprint in Saudi Arabia by targeting the development and management of 200,000 sqm of office space by 2027, to reach 500,000 sqm by 2030 across key cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.

By 2030, we aim to complete six development projects totaling 360,000 sqm of BUA, encompassing a diverse mix of medium-rise standalone offices and integrated mixed-use developments that blend workspace with retail and hospitality components. On the property management front, we plan to oversee 140,000 sqm across six projects, focusing on operational excellence, tenant satisfaction, and long-term asset value, offering flexible rental models tailored to market needs. While we target six projects per category, our development approach remains agile, adapting the number of projects as needed to meet BUA targets and optimize investment returns.

Paragon has integrated EV charging into its developments. How does this support Egypt’s clean mobility goals and broader sustainability strategy?

Paragon’s integration of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure directly supports Egypt’s clean mobility goals as outlined in the National Climate Change Strategy 2050. This national strategy aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across sectors, including transportation, and promote the shift toward more sustainable, energy-efficient mobility solutions.

By embedding smart, accessible EV charging stations within its developments, Paragon is helping to lay the groundwork for an electric mobility ecosystem in Egypt. These efforts not only encourage EV adoption among residents and businesses but also demonstrate how private sector leadership can complement national sustainability initiatives.

Paragon’s approach aligns with the country’s long-term vision of reducing fuel dependency, minimizing environmental impact, and modernizing infrastructure through innovative, technology-driven solutions—positioning its projects as forward-thinking models for Egypt’s low-carbon future.

How do you envision the ideal workplace of the future in cities like Cairo?

The ideal workplace of the future in cities like Cairo is one that seamlessly blends technology, sustainability, and human-centric design to meet the evolving needs of a modern workforce. In a fast-paced, urban environment, professionals increasingly seek more than just a desk—they want dynamic spaces that enhance productivity, support well-being, and foster collaboration and innovation.

Our partnerships with global leaders like Schneider Electric, Signify, and Planon allow us to deliver intelligent ecosystems that support cognitive performance.

At PARAGON, this vision is already being realized. We believe the future of work lies in environments that prioritize people over physical structures. That’s why our developments are intentionally designed to deliver more than functionality—they’re built to empower users, stimulate creativity, and promote sustainable growth.

By integrating smart technologies such as IoT-enabled systems, advanced climate control, intelligent lighting, and user-customizable workstations, PARAGON creates interactive, responsive environments that adapt to how people actually work. Our partnerships with global leaders like Schneider Electric, Signify, and Planon allow us to deliver intelligent ecosystems that optimize energy use, improve air quality, enhance comfort, and actively support cognitive performance.

Sustainability is also a core component of the workplace of the future. PARAGON buildings are designed with eco-conscious infrastructure and certified green standards, including LEED and SmartScore certifications, ensuring long-term environmental responsibility and operational efficiency. Through features like biophilic design, better acoustics, and natural lighting, we improve both the mental and physical health of our occupants.

Ultimately, the workplace of the future must be adaptable, sustainable, and centered around the user experience. At PARAGON, we’re not just imagining that future—we’re building it. Our developments offer a blueprint for what smart, human-centric workplaces should look like in Egypt’s cities as they continue to grow and modernize.

Finally, what one piece of advice would you offer to real estate developers aiming to support entrepreneurship in Egypt?

My advice would be to design spaces that go far beyond physical infrastructure. In Egypt’s dynamic and fast-evolving entrepreneurial landscape, developers have a unique opportunity to create environments that actively support innovation and business growth. It’s not just about offering a desk or an office—it’s about building a community where entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate, and thrive.

Startups flourish in ecosystems where ideas are shared, partnerships are formed, and support systems are in place. By offering flexible, scalable, and tech-enabled workspaces that adapt to different stages of business growth, developers can empower startups to focus on what really matters: building and scaling their ideas. At the same time, integrating sustainability into these developments helps future-proof their operations and aligns with broader environmental goals.

The WORK IN model at PARAGON can truly drive impact in Egypt’s startup ecosystem

But equally important are the intangible resources—access to mentorship, business development services, and meaningful networking opportunities. These elements are critical in helping entrepreneurs navigate challenges and accelerate their journey to success. This holistic, human-centric approach is what we’ve built into the WORK IN model at PARAGON, and it’s a framework that can truly drive impact in Egypt’s startup ecosystem.

Ghada Ismail

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has thrown open its doors to foreign entrepreneurs, promising 100% ownership, faster business licensing, and easier visa pathways. Backed by Vision 2030, these reforms aim to position the Kingdom as a startup magnet, especially as regional rivals compete for global talent and capital. While homegrown entrepreneurship is thriving, a growing number of foreign entrepreneurs are also seeing Saudi Arabia as a promising destination to launch startups. As traditional barriers fade and incentives increase, expats are stepping forward not just as contributors to the Saudi economy but as builders of entirely new ventures. But what exactly makes Saudi Arabia appealing to expatriate entrepreneurs, and what roadblocks still stand in their way?

Is It Easy for Expats to Start a Business in Saudi Arabia?

Starting a business as an expat in Saudi Arabia is more possible than ever, but it isn’t without challenges. On the upside, the government has rolled out a suite of reforms and incentives aimed at making the Kingdom an attractive launchpad for startups of all kinds. Startups led by foreign nationals can now apply for investment licenses without needing a Saudi partner, thanks to changes rolled out by the Ministry of Investment (MISA). The business visa process has also been simplified, with multi-entry options for founders and employees.

Entrepreneurial residency programs, such as the Special Talent and Premium Residency visas, offer an alternative to traditional work sponsorships. These permits provide greater mobility, the right to own property, and fewer employment restrictions—key incentives for global entrepreneurs considering Saudi Arabia as a base.

Opening the Door for Expat Founders: Premium Residency Options

Saudi Arabia’s evolving residency landscape is playing a crucial role in attracting global entrepreneurial talent. One standout initiative is the Premium Residency Program, which offers foreign professionals, investors, and startup founders the opportunity to live and work in the Kingdom with greater flexibility and fewer restrictions.

According to Monsha’at, the Premium Residency holders enjoy several key benefits, including the ability to own real estate, conduct business, invite family members, and move freely in and out of the country without a visa. Notably, they are exempt from expat fees and can transfer between employers without penalties—a significant shift from the older sponsorship-based system.

There are multiple tailored tracks under the program that cater to the needs of foreign entrepreneurs and investors:

Entrepreneur Residency is specifically designed for startup founders aiming to build and scale in Saudi Arabia. It allows entrepreneurs to nominate two team members for residency under the Special Talent category and exempts them from the Saudization quota (Nitaqat) for the first three years. Those who create 10 jobs in the first year and another 10 in the second can directly qualify for conditional permanent residency.

Investor Residency targets those looking to tap into the Kingdom’s booming economy and offers a streamlined path to long-term residency.

Other tracks like Special Talent, Gifted, and Real Estate Owner Residency further expand the program’s appeal, catering to scientists, artists, athletes, and property owners.

With both limited and unlimited duration options, the Premium Residency program is helping redefine what it means to be a foreign entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia, offering not just access but long-term stability and inclusion in the Kingdom’s ambitious development journey. 

On the policy side, recent changes have made it easier for non-Saudis to own 100% of their companies without the need for a local sponsor. Licensing procedures have been streamlined through platforms like “Meras” and “Monsha’at,” while the Ministry of Investment offers dedicated support for foreign investors looking to navigate regulations.

In the same context, foreign entrepreneurs can choose from several business structures based on their goals and industry, including:

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Subsidiary of a Foreign Company

Joint Stock Company (JSC)

Regional Headquarters (RHQ)

Technical and Scientific Services Office (TSSO)

According to the Setup in Saudi website - a comprehensive digital platform designed to assist foreign entrepreneurs and businesses in establishing and growing their ventures within Saudi Arabia - each structure offers distinct benefits depending on the founder’s vision and operational needs, and consulting with a qualified business advisor or local incubator is highly recommended to navigate the legal and regulatory landscape smoothly.

Further, the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), now part of the Ministry of Investment (MISA), has made it possible for foreigners to obtain investment licenses within days, streamlining what used to be a more complicated process.

The Drawbacks:
However, barriers remain. Bureaucracy, though improving, can still be complex and time-consuming. Some expats face difficulties understanding regulatory updates, especially if they’re unfamiliar with Arabic or the local legal system. Moreover, competition in certain sectors—like food tech or logistics—has intensified, particularly from well-funded Saudi firms.

Cultural nuances also pose hurdles. Building trust with local partners or clients often requires deeper integration into Saudi business etiquette, which can be unfamiliar to newcomers. For many expats, establishing credibility and a reliable local network takes time—and often, patience.

Vision 2030 Impact:
Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s landmark transformation plan, explicitly encourages foreign participation in building a diversified, knowledge-based economy. The plan supports SMEs and startups through funding bodies like the Saudi Venture Capital Company (SVC), the Social Development Bank, and the Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Moreover, the Monsha’at SME Authority provides training, mentoring, and subsidized tools to early-stage founders—services which are increasingly accessible to expat entrepreneurs. Free zones and innovation hubs such as King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), Neom’s Oxagon, and the Riyadh Techno Valley also offer regulatory and operational advantages to foreign-led ventures.

Real-Life Stories: Finding the Right Fit in Saudi Arabia

One compelling example of foreign expansion into Saudi Arabia comes from Waagner Biro Steel and Glass, an Austrian firm with over 165 years of engineering expertise, whose success story was narrated by the Setup in Saudi website. 

Known for high-profile projects across the Middle East, including the Floating Bridge and Al Noor Island Development in the UAE, the company recognized Saudi Arabia as the next logical step, both strategically and economically.

“We saw a market that’s simply too big to ignore,” said Jason Wilson, General Manager of Waagner Biro Steel and Glass. “The upcoming global events—like the 2029 Asian Winter Games and Expo 2030—are more than milestones. They are catalysts driving accelerated urban development.”

Motivated by the ambitions of Vision 2030 and the scale of infrastructure transformation underway, the firm partnered with expansion platform AstroLabs to navigate entry into the Saudi market. With local guidance, they were able to efficiently meet entry requirements, build the right relationships, and set up operations aligned with their long-term vision.

Wilson emphasizes that local engagement is key. “It takes face-to-face interaction. Don’t spend too much time developing remote strategies. Get on the ground. Meet suppliers. Assess capacities. The earlier you’re in, the sooner you adapt.”

Waagner Biro’s story underscores how established foreign companies, when supported by local networks and aligned with national priorities, can thrive in Saudi Arabia’s evolving economic landscape.

Challenges to Watch Out For

Despite the promising developments, launching a startup in Saudi Arabia as an expat is not without its friction points.

Legal and Licensing Complexities:
Even with streamlined procedures, licensing can still be nuanced depending on the sector. Certain activities require approvals from multiple agencies, and rules around foreign ownership can vary for industries deemed strategic or sensitive. Navigating these nuances often requires legal counsel or local advisors, adding to the cost and complexity.

Access to Capital:
While the venture capital scene is growing rapidly, access to funding for expat-led startups is still somewhat limited compared to those with Saudi founders or partnerships. Many local VCs prefer to back teams with a strong Saudi presence or deep local understanding. Establishing investor confidence as an outsider can be difficult unless paired with a compelling Saudi-market value proposition or a local co-founder.

Hiring and Retention:
Saudi Arabia’s labor laws and Saudization requirements—while not always applicable to early-stage ventures—can still affect long-term hiring plans. Many expat founders report challenges in finding the right mix of local and international talent, especially in niche tech or design roles.

Cultural and Consumer Fit:
Creating a product that resonates with Saudi consumers often requires an insider’s perspective. Foreign founders must take time to understand social norms, spending habits, and consumer expectations. What works in Western or Asian markets may not translate directly in the Kingdom.

Navigating the Ecosystem:
While support programs are abundant, knowing which doors to knock on isn’t always easy. Some expats report difficulty navigating the overlapping mandates of multiple government agencies or gaining visibility within local investor networks.

Conclusion & Future Outlook

Saudi Arabia is emerging as a serious contender on the global startup map, not just for Saudis, but increasingly for the world’s entrepreneurs. Its fast-growing market, government-backed funding, and ambitious economic diversification goals make it a fertile ground for innovation.

For expat founders, the opportunity is clear: access to a young and growing population, government support, and a hunger for new ideas. But success requires more than just a visa and a business plan. It takes cultural adaptability, regulatory know-how, and the ability to forge strong local partnerships.

As the Kingdom continues to open its doors to global talent, the next wave of startups will likely be built by teams that blend international experience with local insight. And for those willing to learn, adapt, and build with intention, Saudi Arabia may well be one of the most promising frontiers for entrepreneurship today.

Advice for Aspiring Expats:

• Do your homework. Understand the legal and market landscape before making the leap.
• Build local connections early. Having a Saudi partner, mentor, or advisor can be invaluable.
• Be patient but proactive. Things move quickly, but building trust takes time.
• Leverage the ecosystem. From incubators to grants, take full advantage of what’s available.

With the right mix of preparation and adaptability, expat founders can thrive and help shape the future of Saudi innovation.