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6/17/25, 1:32 PM Abu Dhabi startup ecosystem ranks 3rd in MENA for performance amid global slowdown

The GSER 2025 highlights Abu Dhabi's impressive leap into the top emerging global ecosystems. Image Courtesy: Hub71

Abu Dhabi startup ecosystem ranks 3rd in MENA for performance amid global
slowdown
Startup Genome launches the world’s most comprehensive report on startup ecosystems, released at VivaTech Paris
Press Release

June 16, 2025

Abu Dhabi, UAE — Abu Dhabi’s startup ecosystem has made remarkable strides, emerging as one of the fastest-growing hubs in the Middle East and
North Africa (MENA), according to the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) launched today at VivaTech in Paris. Recognized as the
world’s most comprehensive research on startup ecosystems, the GSER leverages the largest quality-controlled dataset in the industry, analyzing
data from over 5 million companies across 350+ entrepreneurial innovation ecosystems worldwide.
The GSER 2025 highlights Abu Dhabi's impressive leap into the top emerging global ecosystems, ranking in the #51-60 tier, up from its previous #61-
70 position. This advancement comes despite a global 14% decline in overall startup ecosystem value. Notably, Abu Dhabi generated $4.4 billion
(approximately AED 16.2 billion) in Ecosystem Value between July 1, 2022, and December 31, 2024, marking a 6% annual growth.
Abu Dhabi also ranked 3rd in the MENA region for Performance, a category that evaluates startup success through valuations and exit activity. This
recognition reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a dynamic, results-driven hub for entrepreneurship and innovation.

“Abu Dhabi’s rise in the global rankings is a testament to the exceptional pace and cohesion of its innovation ecosystem, with Hub71 at the heart of this
transformation. Amid a global downturn in startup ecosystem value, Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision is beginning to pay off - demonstrating bold
leadership and collaborative strength. We expect this momentum to continue, with Abu Dhabi poised to grow at a faster rate than many global peers in
the years ahead.” says Samantha Evans, Managing Director MENA, Startup Genome.
The report also places Abu Dhabi among the top five ecosystems in MENA across several core categories, including Knowledge, Funding, and Talent
& Experience. Additionally, the emirate was recognized among the region’s best for "Bang for Buck," reflecting efficient use of venture capital and a
strong return on investment.
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