Tamer El Bahay, serial entrepreneur and Managing Partner- Moonbase 

Egyptians have long been active investors in international real estate markets, particularly those earning in foreign currencies like exporters. My family, involved in food exports, has followed this path for decades, investing in properties across Europe and the U.S. to preserve wealth and enable global mobility. 

However, as the investment landscape evolves, I’ve come to realize that while real estate remains valuable, it’s not the only option. Search funds - an innovative and increasingly popular asset class - are a compelling alternative for Egyptian investors seeking to diversify their portfolios.

What Are Search Funds?

Search funds are private equity vehicles created by entrepreneurs to acquire and manage small-to-medium-sized businesses. Simply put: investors provide capital for the search phase, where entrepreneurs identify businesses - typically valued between $5 million and $30 million - in stable industries like healthcare, education, and light manufacturing. After acquisition, these businesses generate active cash flow and experience growth under the entrepreneur's management. 

Search funds have delivered impressive returns, with an average internal rate of return (IRR) of 35.1% and a return on investment (ROI) of 4.5x as of 2024.

Why Search Funds Are a Smart Alternative for Egyptian Investors

For Egyptian investors accustomed to foreign real estate markets, search funds offer several advantages:

1. Comparable Investment Size, Higher Returns

A typical search fund investment is around $500,000, similar to the amount needed for a Golden Visa property in Europe or a high-end apartment in Dubai. However, search funds have the potential for significantly higher returns. While real estate provides stable, but modest, appreciation and rental income, search funds historically offer an average IRR of 35% and a 4.5x ROI, according to Stanford University’s Search Fund Study. These returns make search funds an attractive alternative for investors seeking higher growth.

2. Active Cash Flow vs. Passive Income

Real estate investments can often generate inconsistent or passive rental income, with properties sitting idle or needing maintenance. In contrast, businesses acquired through search funds generate active cash flow almost immediately. These companies have established revenue streams, providing regular distributions alongside equity growth. For exporters used to steady income from trade, this active cash flow is an appealing feature that aligns well with their financial expectations.

3. Aligned Time Horizons

Real estate investments typically have a medium- to long-term horizon of 5-10 years before realizing substantial gains. Similarly, search funds operate on a timeline that aligns with this expectation: 1-2 years to identify and acquire a business, followed by 3-7 years with an average of 5 years for operational growth before an exit. This timing matches the investment strategy of Egyptian investors familiar with waiting for long-term returns.

4. Global Diversification Without the Hassles of Property Management

Managing properties abroad comes with challenges, including maintenance, tenant management, and local regulations. Search funds eliminate these operational headaches by focusing on well-managed SMEs across various industries and geographies. Investors gain global diversification without the complexities associated with property ownership, making it a convenient way to expand one’s portfolio internationally.

A Call for Strategic Diversification

As Egypt’s export sector continues to grow, driven by government incentives and rising global demand, exporters have more opportunities than ever to leverage their foreign currency earnings into high-yield investments. While real estate remains a reliable option, by allocating part of your portfolio to search funds, you can achieve higher returns, enjoy active cash flow, and benefit from global diversification without the burdens of property management.

Kholoud Hussein 

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a significant transformation in its labor market, marked by the rapid growth of the freelance economy. This shift aligns seamlessly with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the economy, empower individuals, and foster innovation. As of September 2024, over 2.25 million individuals have registered on the national freelance platform, reflecting the increasing demand for flexible work options and the government's commitment to modernizing the workforce. 

The Current Landscape of Freelancing in Saudi Arabia

Demographics and Sectoral Distribution

The freelance sector in Saudi Arabia is diverse and dynamic. Trade and retail dominate with 38% of freelancers, followed by industry (13%) and business services (11%). Educationally, 62% of freelancers hold bachelor's degrees, 31% have high school qualifications or less, and 7% possess higher degrees. Geographically, Riyadh leads with 27% of freelancers, followed by Makkah (22%) and the Eastern Region (14%). The 25-34 age group is the most active, indicating a strong youth presence in the freelance market. 

Economic Contribution 

The freelance economy’s impact on Saudi Arabia’s GDP is already notable, contributing SAR 72.5 billion (approximately $19.3 billion) in 2023, which equates to around 2% of the Kingdom's total GDP. This contribution is expected to increase substantially as freelance work becomes more formalized and integrated into the national labor strategy. According to a report by the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the number of freelance licenses issued is growing at an annual rate of 22%, indicating a strong upward trajectory.

Experts forecast that by 2030, freelancers could contribute up to 5% of Saudi Arabia's GDP if current trends continue, particularly as new sectors such as digital marketing, software development, AI services, and content creation continue to flourish. Furthermore, the flexibility inherent in freelance work supports other critical areas of Vision 2030 — notably by reducing unemployment, especially among youth and women, and fostering innovation across industries.

From a socio-economic perspective, the freelance model also plays a role in regional development. With more freelancers able to work remotely from secondary cities like Al Khobar, Abha, and Tabuk, economic activities are becoming less concentrated in Riyadh and Jeddah, promoting more balanced national development.

Startups and Digital Platforms Supporting Freelancers 

Saudi startups and digital platforms are emerging as critical enablers of the freelance economy, and their role will only intensify in the coming years.

Platforms like Marn and Ureed are not merely matching freelancers with projects — they are building ecosystems. Marn recently announced a plan to integrate AI-driven skill assessment tools, helping freelancers validate and showcase their competencies, thereby increasing trust between freelancers and hiring businesses. Ureed, similarly, has expanded its platform capabilities to offer managed services where teams of freelancers can collaborate on complex projects, providing end-to-end solutions for SMEs and large enterprises.

In addition, new SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) startups in Saudi Arabia are developing tools specifically for freelancers, including smart invoicing apps, legal contract templates, and tax management services, in anticipation of more formal freelance taxation systems in the Kingdom. Startups like Freelance Yard and Shift are already piloting freelance marketplaces that include embedded banking services, allowing users to manage payments, savings, and even retirement plans directly through their platforms.

Looking ahead, startups are expected to play an even bigger role by:

• Expanding access to international markets: Saudi freelancers could soon tap into global freelance opportunities via local platforms offering cross-border payments and multilingual interfaces.
• Specialization of platforms: Future freelance platforms may be sector-specific (e.g., legal freelancing, healthcare consulting, tech development), catering to niche professional segments with tailored tools.
• Building communities and upskilling hubs: Startups will likely invest in building online communities offering networking events, professional development workshops, and certifications that enhance freelancers’ career growth.
• Integrating AI and Blockchain: AI will optimize matching algorithms, while blockchain could be used to create secure, transparent work contracts and payment records, ensuring better protection for freelancers.

According to a study by PwC Middle East, nearly 68% of Saudi startups are looking to integrate freelance-based services into their operational models by 2026 — highlighting that the freelance economy will not just be an employment channel, but a core business model.

Government Initiatives and Vision 2030 Alignment

The Saudi government has implemented several initiatives to bolster the freelance economy:

• Future Work Company: Established in 2019 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development to promote modern work styles, including freelancing. 
• Freelance License Program: Simplifies the process for individuals to obtain official freelance licenses, granting them access to government services and financial products.
• Support Programs: Initiatives like the Reef program, the Social Development Bank, and the Human Resources Development Fund provide financial and training support to freelancers. 

These efforts are integral to Vision 2030's objectives of increasing employment, especially among youth and women, and fostering a diversified, knowledge-based economy.

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges

Despite the growth, the freelance sector faces several challenges:

• Legal Framework: The need for standardized contracts and dispute resolution mechanisms to protect freelancers and clients.
• Social Protection: Limited access to health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits typically associated with traditional employment.
• Skill Development: Continuous upskilling is necessary to meet the evolving demands of the global market.

Opportunities

The freelance economy presents numerous opportunities:

• Women's Participation: With 3.2 million women expressing interest in freelancing, there's potential for increased female workforce participation. 
• Youth Engagement: The dominance of the 25-34 age group indicates a trend towards embracing flexible work models among the youth. 
• Technological Integration: Leveraging digital platforms can enhance efficiency and expand market reach for freelancers.

The Freelance Economy in Saudi Arabia Toward 2030 and Beyond

As Saudi Arabia continues its march toward achieving the ambitious targets of Vision 2030, the freelance economy is expected to shift from being a complementary part of the labor market to a central pillar of economic growth and innovation.

Experts project that by 2030, freelancers could account for as much as 10% of the active workforce in Saudi Arabia if current reforms and technological trends continue. According to a Deloitte Middle East forecast, flexible work arrangements, including freelance and remote work, will dominate nearly 35% of total employment contracts in the private sector by the end of the decade.

Several factors will fuel this future growth:

• Continuous Regulatory Enhancements: The Saudi government is expected to introduce more robust legal protections for freelancers, including standardized digital contracts, enhanced social insurance schemes, and retirement plans tailored to independent workers.
• Educational Institutions Embracing Freelancing: Universities and vocational training centers are increasingly incorporating freelance skills — such as project management, digital marketing, coding, and creative writing — into their curriculums to prepare students for the freelance economy.
• Cross-Sector Expansion: Freelancing will no longer be confined to technology or creative sectors. Growth is anticipated in healthcare consultancy, legal services, educational tutoring, environmental consulting, and even industrial design.
• Integration with Mega Projects: Saudi Arabia’s "giga projects" such as NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya will provide extensive opportunities for freelancers in areas like tech development, media production, architecture, environmental research, and tourism management.

Startups will remain vital players in facilitating this growth:

• They will build decentralized talent platforms connecting freelancers directly to global projects.
• They will integrate AI-driven skill certifications and instant payment systems to make freelancing more seamless and attractive.
• They will develop freelance-focused co-working hubs in major cities, blending digital and physical support spaces for independent workers.

Saudi officials are optimistic about the trajectory. In a recent statement, Ahmed Al-Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, said: "Freelancers are the future of a vibrant and diversified Saudi economy. We aim to empower them through smart policies, advanced platforms, and global integration."

Similarly, business owners in the freelance ecosystem, like Fahad Al-Dossary, founder of a Riyadh-based tech consultancy, affirm: "The freelance revolution has democratized opportunity. Today, Saudi talent can compete and collaborate globally without leaving their homes."

As Saudi Arabia embraces digitalization, entrepreneurship, and labor market flexibility, the freelance economy is no longer a secondary trend — it is becoming a strategic engine for growth, innovation, and national pride.

To conclude, the freelance economy in Saudi Arabia is rapidly evolving, contributing significantly to the nation's GDP and aligning with the strategic goals of Vision 2030. With continued support from the government, startups, and digital platforms, the sector is poised for sustained growth, offering flexible employment opportunities and fostering economic diversification.

Ghada Ismail

Suppose that the influencers just take selfies and share snap-winning captions all day long? Think again. In Saudi Arabia, the social media stars that you glance over every day are now occupying the head seats of boardroom tables, building brands, making startups, and leading companies that are making waves.

It's a revolution that can't be ignored. With millions of followers at their fingertips, these influencers have done more than sell products; they've established trust, built personal brands, and discovered the secret to turning passion into profit. Today, they're using that clout to create businesses that don't just track trends. They set them!

From fashion and beauty to tech and F&B, Saudi influencers are proving that the leap from content creator to company founder isn’t just possible; it’s becoming the new normal. In this blog, we’ll dive into the stories of some of Saudi Arabia’s most successful influencer-turned-entrepreneurs and see how they're redefining what it means to be a CEO in today’s digital-first economy.

Ready to meet Saudi businesses' new faces? Let's get in. Welcome to the new world where Saudi influencers are swapping followers for founder titles and making serious moves in markets far from the usual beauty and fashion paths.

Ibrahim Al Hajjaj: From Stand-Up Star to Startup Starter

You know him as the master of sharp wit and grounded characters, but Ibrahim Al Hajjaj is doing more than just making people laugh; he's building the business of entertainment.

Behind the limelight, Ibrahim has been busy opening stand-up comedy houses and forward-thinking production houses, driving Saudi Arabia's entertainment industry from amateur to business-class.

It's a high-stakes gamble, putting him not only as an entertainer but also as one of the driving forces shaping the future of the industry.

Ghaith Marwan: Turning Adventures into Investments

Known for his energetic travel videos and larger-than-life personality, Ghaith Marwan didn’t stop at entertainment. He’s quietly invested in the food and beverage scene and hospitality projects, bringing his adventurous spirit to real-world businesses. For Ghaith, the thrill of the journey isn’t just online; it’s embedded in every venture he backs.

Bader Saleh: From Viral Videos to Serious Ventures

Remember the viral sketches from ‘Eish Elly?’

Bader Saleh utilized his online fame and took it as a launching pad to develop content tech startups and media creativity platforms. Being at the forefront of media trends, Bader is showing that content creators' future is about taking charge of their art and their enterprises.

Ahmad Al Shugairi: Spurring Change, Establishing Enterprises

Saudi youth have been inspired by Ahmad Al Shugairi for decades on programs like 'Khawatir'.

But his influence did not remain limited to screen; it translated into tangible projects, from publishing ventures to social initiatives targeted at innovation, education, and empowering youths. Ahmad's life proves that when purpose is merged with influence, real social change follows.

Faisal Al Basri: Revolutionizing the E-commerce Game

Faisal Al Basri, famous for his biting remarks on business and technology, did not just talk about entrepreneurship; he lived it. With his venture into e-commerce and online platforms, Faisal has encouraged local products and created new opportunities for SMEs to expand online. He's the ultimate example of how content creators can turn digital knowledge into real business success.

The Rise of a New Entrepreneurial Generation

Saudi social media influencers are demonstrating that today, influence is not a matter of numbers; it's a matter of doing. They have progressed from being just creators to being real business players and cultural influencers. There are lessons for us on how digital natives can turn their skills and audience relationships into profitable businesses.

This is not just indicative of the rise of influencer marketing but of the emergence of a new generation of digital businesspeople who are revolutionizing business and culture. With these digital business people creating their brands, they're not just changing their own destinies but even rewriting the success recipe in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

The bottom line is clear: influence in the new world isn't about being seen; it's about using your platform. The social media influencers in Saudi Arabia are showing us all just how much that is possible.

Kholoud Hussein 

In the dynamic world of startups, one of the most critical decisions founders face is choosing between bootstrapping and seeking venture capital (VC) funding. Each path offers distinct advantages and challenges, and the optimal choice often depends on the startup's goals, industry, and growth strategy. This article delves into the current landscape, providing insights and data to help entrepreneurs make informed decisions.

Understanding Bootstrapping and Venture Capital

Bootstrapping involves building a company using personal finances or operating revenues. This approach allows founders to maintain full control over their business but may limit the speed and scale of growth due to resource constraints.

Venture Capital, on the other hand, entails raising funds from investors in exchange for equity. This influx of capital can accelerate growth and provide access to valuable networks, but often comes with expectations of rapid scaling and potential dilution of ownership.

The Current Funding Landscape

In 2024, global venture capital funding experienced a modest increase, reaching approximately $83 billion, up from $75 billion in 2023. However, this figure remains below the peak levels seen in 2021, indicating a more cautious investment environment.

Notably, the AI sector dominated VC investments, securing nearly $100 billion globally—a significant 80% increase from the previous year. This trend underscores the importance of aligning with investor interests when seeking VC funding.

Conversely, bootstrapping has gained traction among startups. In 2024, over 38% of startups globally began without external funding, up from 26% in 2019. This shift reflects a growing desire among entrepreneurs to retain control and build sustainable businesses without external pressures.

Success Rates and Considerations

Startup success rates remain a critical factor in funding decisions. First-time founders have an 18% success rate, while those with prior experience see a 30% success rate. These statistics highlight the challenges startups face, regardless of the funding approach

.

Bootstrapping Pros:

• Control: Founders retain full ownership and decision-making authority.
• Sustainability: Focus on profitability and sustainable growth.
• Flexibility: Ability to pivot without external approval.

Bootstrapping Cons:

• Limited Resources: Slower growth due to funding constraints.
• Risk: Personal financial exposure.
• Scalability: Challenges in scaling operations quickly.

Venture Capital Pros:

• Capital: Access to significant funding for rapid growth.
• Expertise: Guidance and mentorship from experienced investors.
• Networking: Connections to potential partners, customers, and talent.

Venture Capital Cons:

• Dilution: Loss of ownership and control.
• Pressure: Expectations for rapid growth and returns.
• Alignment: Potential conflicts between founder vision and investor goals.

Industry-Specific Insights

Certain industries may favor one funding approach over the other. For instance, SaaS companies often benefit from bootstrapping due to lower initial capital requirements and recurring revenue models. However, sectors like biotechnology or hardware, which require substantial upfront investment, may necessitate VC funding.

In 2024, bootstrapped SaaS businesses experienced a decline in growth rates, with median growth dropping 27 percentage points in less than a year. This trend suggests that while bootstrapping offers control, it may limit scalability in certain contexts.

Making the Right Choice

When deciding between bootstrapping and VC funding, consider the following:

• Business Model: Does your model require significant upfront investment?
• Growth Objectives: Are you aiming for rapid expansion or steady, sustainable growth?
• Risk Tolerance: Are you comfortable with personal financial risk, or do you prefer shared risk with investors?
• Control: How important is maintaining full control over your company?
• Market Conditions: Is the current investment climate favorable for your industry?

Finally, both bootstrapping and venture capital offer viable paths for startups, each with unique advantages and challenges. Bootstrapping provides control and sustainability but may limit growth potential. Venture capital offers resources and acceleration but comes with expectations and potential loss of control.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your business model, goals, and personal preferences. By carefully evaluating these factors and staying informed about market trends, you can make a decision that aligns with your vision and sets your startup on the path to success.

Shaimaa Ibrahim

Amid the rapid transformations reshaping the global food industry, food technology has emerged as a key driver in revolutionizing how food is produced, distributed, and consumed. In Saudi Arabia, this sector is gaining strong momentum, fueled by Vision 2030’s focus on innovation and sustainability as essential pillars to strengthen food security and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs to deliver cutting-edge solutions tailored to both local and regional markets.

Therefore, Sharikat Mubasher sat down with Mohammed AlQurashi, CEO & Founder of Saudi FoodTech, a company aiming to harness technology to transform the food supply chain. In this exclusive interview, AlQurashi sheds light on the key challenges facing entrepreneurs in the food tech space, shares his vision for the sector’s future in Saudi Arabia, and highlights the critical role that startups can play in achieving self-sufficiency and boosting the Kingdom’s competitiveness in the global food landscape.

How was Saudi FoodTech founded, and what is its vision and mission for the food technology sector? 

 Saudi FoodTech was established to catalyze the Kingdom's transformation into a global hub for food and agri-techinnovation. Recognizing the critical need to enhance food security and sustainability, our mission is to foster an ecosystem in KSA for the world that accelerates innovation, investment, and collaboration in this sector. By connecting global and local startups, investors, corporates, and policymakers, we aim to drive the development of sustainable, tech-driven solutions in food and agriculture, in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. 

What services does Saudi FoodTech offer to support entrepreneurs and startups within the food technology industry?

We provide a comprehensive suite of services designed to support startups at various stages of their development. This includes facilitating connections with corporates and investors, organizing year-round industry events across Saudi cities to enhance visibility and partnership opportunities, and launching innovation challenges like the upcoming 2025 edition of the Saudi Agri-FoodTech Challenge which we will announce soon. Additionally, we offer support with commercialization and integration into corporate value chains, aiming to enable practical, high-impact engagement that accelerates innovation within the ecosystem. 

Can you share insights into the three editions of Saudi FoodTech, including the number of entrepreneurs and investors involved, as well as key partnerships formed?

Over the course of three editions, Saudi FoodTech has engaged more than 1,000 stakeholders, including startups, investors, corporates, and government entities. Our events and programs have led to meaningful investment outcomes, with several startups securing funding or advancing co-investment discussions. We'vealso facilitated strategic visits for startups from MEWA’s accelerator program to Saudi’s industry leaders like NADEC, AlTanmiah, and Jahez, creating direct pathways between early-stage innovators and key corporate players. We are currently focused on engaging global VCs who invest in the food and agri sectors, to bring them and their portfolios to the Kingdom. 

Could you provide more details about the companies that have recently joined Saudi FoodTech?

 We collaborate with a growing network of companies across the food and agriculture sectors. Recent initiatives include partnerships to facilitategreenhouse-based Taif rose production and early efforts to connect rose farmers with AgriTech startups. These projects reflect our broader goal of integrating innovation into heritage-based sectors with untapped commercial potential. We believe there is a massive opportunity for Saudi agri and food businesses to embed technology and go global. 

Is there an increasing interest among startups in developing sustainable solutions within the food technology sector? What are the most notable innovations that Saudi FoodTech is focusing on?

 Yes, there's a notable increase in interest among startups in developing sustainable solutions. Key areas of focus include controlled environment agriculture, smart irrigation and water-efficient systems, supply chain digitization and traceability, and localized, high-value ingredient development. Saudi FoodTech is committed to supporting startups that address deeply local challenges while contributing to broader food security and environmental goals. 

What are the primary challenges facing food technology startups in Saudi Arabia, and what strategies can be implemented to overcome them?

Key challenges include access to early-stage capital, limited commercialization and piloting infrastructure, and building relationships with industry partners and decision-makers. Our strategy focuses on closing these gaps through matchmaking between startups, corporates, and investors, structured investment readiness programs, and innovation challenges to validate solutions and open upmarket access. From our conversations, and by building awareness of Saudi Arabia’s food and agri sector, we have seen investor interest increase. 

 We believe that enabling structured engagement across the ecosystem is key to accelerating growth. 

How do you envision the future of smart agriculture and food technology in the Kingdom, especially with growing government support? What role do startups play in driving innovation in this field? 

The future of food and agriculture in Saudi Arabia is smart, sustainable, and tech-enabled. With strong policy support under Vision 2030, the sector is rapidly transforming, and startups are playing a vital role in that shift. From precision agriculture and alternative proteins to climate-smart farming, startups bring the agility and innovation required to tackle local challenges at scale. Saudi FoodTech’s role is to support and scale those efforts through strategic connections and ecosystem-building. 

What are thefuture plansand goals for Saudi FoodTech moving forward?

 In 2025, our focus is on launching the Saudi Agri-FoodTech Challenge, expanding our year-round event calendar across multiple Saudi cities, publishing ecosystem insights, and elevating thought leadership. We also aim to build long-term partnerships to support commercialization, policy dialogue, and investment opportunities. Our broader goal is to make Saudi FoodTech a globally recognized platform that drives innovation, investment, and sustainable growth across the Kingdom’s food and agriculture sectors