The GCC fintech scene has gained international recognition, with six Middle East startups featured in CB Insights’ 2026 Fintech 100 list. This acknowledgement is a testament to the region's fintech growth potential and the strength of its industry partnerships. The list includes four companies from the United Arab Emirates and two from Saudi Arabia.
The selected startups were evaluated based on factors such as deal activity, investor strength, and commercial traction. Huspy, a digital home-buying and mortgage platform based in Dubai, has raised approximately $200 million in funding, including a $59 million Series B in July 2025. Another Dubai-based startup, Stake, which enables fractional real estate investment, raised a $31 million Series B in February, bringing its total funding to $58 million.
UAE Startups Leading the Way
In addition to Huspy and Stake, other UAE startups have also made significant strides. CredibleX, an embedded finance provider, secured a $15 million Series A in May 2026 to support its services for small and medium-sized businesses. Meanwhile, Zoth completed an undisclosed strategic round in February 2026 to further develop its regulated stablecoin infrastructure for cross-border payments.
Saudi Arabian Startups on the Rise
Saudi Arabia's HALA raised $157 million in a Series B in September 2025, achieving a reported $900 million valuation. Another Saudi Arabian startup, Stitch, which provides fintech infrastructure for banks and lenders, raised $25 million in a Series A in May 2026, bringing its total funding to $35 million. These investments demonstrate the growing interest in the region's fintech sector.
- Huspy: $200 million
- Stake: $58 million
- CredibleX: $15 million
- HALA: $157 million
- Stitch: $35 million
The inclusion of these six Middle East startups in the CB Insights’ 2026 Fintech 100 list highlights the region's fintech innovation and its potential for growth.
