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Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Research Report – Segmentation By Deployment Mode (On-Premises, Cloud-Based); by Technology (Application Programming Interface, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Robotic Process Automation, Data Analytics, and Others); by Application (Payment and Fund Transfer, Loans, Insurance and Personal Finance, Wealth Management, and Others); by End User (Banking, Insurance, Securities, and Others); and Region; - Size, Share, Growth Analysis | Forecast (2024– 2030)

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Size (2024-2030)

The Middle East and Africa Fintech Market was valued at USD 16.01 billion in 2023. Over the forecast period of 2024-2030, it is projected to reach USD 75.49 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 24.8%.

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market

The fintech sector in the Middle East is experiencing significant expansion. Payment processors, fintech companies, and various platforms are transforming the conventional financial framework, making inroads into both local and international markets. A major factor fueling this advancement is the region's rapid adoption of technological innovations.

Key Market Insights:

A substantial, youthful, and technologically adept population is increasingly adopting novel financial products and services in the region. Rising mobile and internet usage, along with heightened awareness of fintech's potential to address various financial challenges—such as access to banking services and cross-border transactions—are also contributing factors. Additionally, startups across the MEA region are addressing diverse issues, including financial inclusion, credit accessibility, and payment and money transfer solutions. The ongoing backing from governments and investors is anticipated to generate further opportunities for the expansion of the fintech sector in the Middle East and Africa in the years ahead.

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Drivers:

Advancements in increasing smartphone usage drive market growth.

Technology is crucial to the advancement of fintech, primarily due to its operations within the virtual realm, particularly through mobile applications. These apps have expanded the accessibility of financial services, offering increased speed and convenience to users. They provide personalized, real-time financial services directly through the app. Furthermore, contactless payments—especially prominent during the pandemic—have allowed individuals to forgo carrying physical wallets.

Moreover, substantial investments by banks and companies in technological solutions are significantly driving the growth of the fintech market in the Middle East and Africa. The integration of infrastructure-based technology and APIs is transforming the financial services industry, further contributing to the sector's expansion. Additionally, fintech firms are able to offer tailored, cost-effective products due to advancements in technology, which heighten customer expectations and fuel widespread market growth.

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Restraints and Challenges: Low degree of financial inclusion restrain market growth.

The MEA fintech market faces several obstacles that impede its growth. Despite rapid technological advancements, the sector requires additional external funding to broaden its impact. Although numerous Middle Eastern banks are engaging with fintech companies through pilot projects and detailed discussions, there has been a lack of substantial strategic partnerships. Financial inclusion remains a significant issue in the region. According to a World Bank report, only 52% of men and 35% of women possess formal banking accounts, indicating that 48% of men and 65% of women are unbanked and lack access to financial services. This highlights not only a low level of financial inclusion but also a pronounced gender disparity. Moreover, the high number of unbanked individuals could pose challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises, as larger corporations dominate the global market. Properly implemented, advancements in financial technology could serve as an equalizer in this landscape.

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Opportunities:

The adoption of artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, and blockchain technology is significantly advancing across various industries, particularly within the BFSI sector. The integration of these cutting-edge technologies into BFSI solutions is enhancing business operations, boosting efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction. Continuous advancements in these technologies are crucial in driving the growth and development of the fintech lending market, especially during the forecast period, as they refine and enhance solutions, software, and services. Additionally, the growing digital literacy among consumers is further accelerating the market's expansion.

MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA FINTECH MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

REPORT METRIC

DETAILS

Market Size Available

2023 - 2030

Base Year

2023

Forecast Period

2024 - 2030

CAGR

24.8%

Segments Covered

By deployment mode, application, technology, end user, and Region

Various Analyses Covered

Regional & Country Level Analysis, Segment-Level Analysis, DROC, PESTLE Analysis, Porter’s Five Forces Analysis, Competitive Landscape, Analyst Overview on Investment Opportunities

Regional Scope

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Rest of GCC countries, South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Egypt, Sudan, Rest of MEA

Key Companies Profiled

Adyen N.V., Tamara, Cisco Systems Inc., Liv., Pepper, Afterpay Limited (Block Inc.), PayTabs, Google Payment Corp., Sarwa, Avant LLC, Tabby.

 

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Segmentation

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Segmentation: By Deployment Mode:

  • On-Premises
  • Cloud-Based

The predominant deployment method in the market is on-premises. In this model, fintech solutions run on the company's own hardware and servers located on-site, granting complete control over data and systems. However, this approach often requires significant initial investments in infrastructure and software, as well as ongoing costs for maintenance and updates. On-premises deployment is generally preferred by large enterprises with complex financial systems and ample resources for effective management.

Alternatively, fintech services can be deployed through a cloud platform managed by a third-party provider, known as cloud-based deployment. This model offers significant scalability and flexibility, allowing businesses to adjust their services according to fluctuating demand. Cloud-based solutions typically operate on a subscription basis, converting substantial upfront costs into manageable, ongoing expenses. This approach is particularly advantageous for startups and SMEs that seek rapid deployment and cost-effective solutions.

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Segmentation By Technology:

  • Application Programming Interface
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Blockchain
  • Robotic Process Automation
  • Data Analytics
  • Others

The Application Programming Interface (API) is a crucial element in fintech services, enabling the integration of diverse software applications. Banking APIs allow third-party applications to securely access users' financial data, thereby streamlining services such as personal financial management, payment processing, and online lending.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is extensively utilized by fintech firms for functions including customer service, fraud detection, and financial advisory services. Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, a subset of AI, automate tasks and improve performance by analyzing large datasets to detect patterns and anomalies. AI-driven chatbots enhance user support by providing prompt and efficient responses to customer inquiries.

Blockchain technology, often linked with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, offers increased transparency and security through its decentralized framework. It is employed in applications such as contract validation, identity verification, and transaction auditing, removing the need for central authorities or intermediaries.

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Segmentation By Application:

  • Payment and Fund Transfer
  • Loans
  • Insurance and Personal Finance
  • Wealth Management
  • Others

Payment and fund transfer are prominent segments in the market, encompassing various areas including loans, insurance, personal finance, and wealth management. According to the report, payment and fund transfer have emerged as the largest segment. Fintech innovations have greatly improved the speed and convenience of these transactions. Mobile payment applications enable rapid and contactless transactions, while peer-to-peer platforms streamline the process of transferring money between individuals.

Additionally, technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics are crucial in customizing insurance products to meet individual needs, thereby reducing costs. Personal finance management applications utilize AI to analyze spending behaviors and offer recommendations for savings or investment strategies, helping consumers gain better control over their financial health.

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Segmentation By End User:

  • Banking
  • Insurance
  • Securities
  • Others

The banking sector holds the largest market share, with fintech achieving widespread adoption within this field. The introduction of online banking platforms, mobile applications, and digital-only banks has transformed the way consumers interact with their bank accounts. Fintech solutions, including instant payments, financial tracking, and automated customer service, are rapidly replacing traditional banking services.

Moreover, the insurance industry is also a major adopter of fintech services. Insurance companies utilize data analytics for accurate risk assessments and the creation of advanced pricing models. They also deploy AI-powered bots for customer service and efficient claim processing. As a result, both companies and consumers benefit from more personalized, flexible, and cost-effective insurance products enabled by fintech innovations.

 

 

Middle East and Africa Fintech Market Segmentation- by region

  • United Arab Emirates
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Qatar
  • Israel
  • South Africa
  • Nigeria
  • Kenya
  • Egypt
  • Rest of Middle East and Africa

The UAE is leading the fintech market with a remarkable 92% increase in investment in 2024, and projections suggest a doubling of transaction value. This growth is driven by several factors, including the UAE's strategic geographic location, a growing demand for fintech solutions among locals, and its attractiveness to foreign direct investment (FDI).

The UAE government is actively promoting green fintech initiatives through tax incentives, aiming to stimulate innovation, support financial growth, and emphasize the nation's commitment to environmental sustainability. The UAE is emerging as a preferred hub for financial service providers, including cryptocurrency exchanges and FX/CFD brokers. The government's policies, which include tax incentives for foreign investors and targeted advertising campaigns, reflect its focus on innovation and investment attraction.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Impact Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the increasing necessity for digitization, with fintech and digital banking facilitating secure and remote operations across both the global financial services sector and the broader economy. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is making substantial investments in fintech, with Saudi Arabia's initiatives being spearheaded by the Financial Sector Development Program (FSDP). This program is aligned with the Vision 2030 framework to expedite the growth of the fintech industry. The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) is responsible for implementing the fintech strategy, drawing insights from leading fintech hubs worldwide, including Singapore and the United Kingdom.

Latest Trends/ Developments:

In February 2024, PayTabs, a prominent payments leader in the MEASA region, announced a strategic partnership with Souhoola, Egypt’s leading BNPL platform. This collaboration introduces a new BNPL option for merchants, broadening the range of online payment solutions available through PayTabs Egypt.

Also in February 2024, PayTabs Group, a leading payment orchestration company in MEA, joined forces with Nearpay, a top payment infrastructure-as-a-service fintech brand in Saudi Arabia. This partnership aims to enhance the soft POS payment experience for users across Jordan and other markets where PayTabs operates.

In January 2024, Valu, MEA’s leading universal financial technology provider, formed a strategic alliance with Bosta, a leading tech provider for last-mile delivery services in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. This collaboration enables the payment of shipments via the IOD feature in the Valu app in Egypt for the first time, with the goal of streamlining the purchasing process and boosting e-commerce sales.

Key Players:

These are top 10 players in the Middle East and Africa Fintech Market: -

  1. Adyen N.V.
  2. Tamara
  3. Cisco Systems Inc., Liv. Pepper
  4. Afterpay Limited (Block Inc.) PayTabs
  5. Google Payment Corp.
  6. Sarwa
  7. Avant LLC Tabby

Chapter 1. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market– Scope & Methodology

   1.1. Market Segmentation

   1.2. Scope, Assumptions & Limitations

   1.3. Research Methodology

   1.4. Primary Sources

   1.5. Secondary Sources

 Chapter 2. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market – Executive Summary

   2.1. Market Size & Forecast – (2024 – 2030) ($M/$Bn)

   2.2. Key Trends & Insights

             2.2.1. Demand Side

             2.2.2. Supply Side

   2.3. Attractive Investment Propositions

   2.4. COVID-19 Impact Analysis

 Chapter 3.  Middle East and Africa Fintech Market– Competition Scenario

   3.1. Market Share Analysis & Company Benchmarking

   3.2. Competitive Strategy & Development Scenario

   3.3. Competitive Pricing Analysis

   3.4. Supplier-Distributor Analysis

 Chapter 4. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market - Entry Scenario

4.1. Regulatory Scenario

4.2. Case Studies – Key Start-ups

4.3. Customer Analysis

4.4. PESTLE Analysis

4.5. Porters Five Force Model

               4.5.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers

               4.5.2. Bargaining Powers of Customers

               4.5.3. Threat of New Entrants

               4.5.4. Rivalry among Existing Players

               4.5.5. Threat of Substitutes

 Chapter 5. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market- Landscape

  5.1. Value Chain Analysis – Key Stakeholders Impact Analysis

  5.2. Market Drivers

  5.3. Market Restraints/Challenges

  5.4. Market Opportunities

 Chapter 6. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market– By  Deployment Mode

6.1.  Introduction/Key Findings   

6.2. On-Premises

6.4. Cloud-Based

6.5. Y-O-Y Growth trend Analysis By  Deployment Mode

6.6. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By  Deployment Mode, 2024-2030

Chapter 7. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market– By Technology

7.1. Introduction/Key Findings   

7.2. Application Programming Interface

7.3. Artificial Intelligence

7.4. Blockchain

7.5. Robotic Process Automation

7.6. Data Analytics

7.7. Others

7.8. Y-O-Y Growth trend Analysis By Technology

7.9. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By Technology , 2024-2030

Chapter 8. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market– By Application

8.1. Introduction/Key Findings   

8.2. Payment and Fund Transfer

8.3. Loans

8.4. Insurance and Personal Finance

8.5. Wealth Management

8.6. Others

8.7. Y-O-Y Growth trend Analysis By Application

8.8. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By Application   , 2024-2030

Chapter 9. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market– By End User

9.1. Introduction/Key Findings   

9.2. Banking

9.3. Insurance

9.4. Securities

9.5. Others

9.6. Y-O-Y Growth trend Analysis By End User

9.7 . Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By End User , 2024-2030

Chapter 10 . Middle East and Africa Fintech Market, By Geography – Market Size, Forecast, Trends & Insights

10 .1. Middle East and Africa

           10 .1.1. By Country

                      10 .1.1.1. Saudi Arabia

                      10 .1.1.2. Qatar

                      10 .1.1.3. UAE

                      10 .1.1.4. Israel

                      10 .1.1.5. South Africa

                      10 .1.1.6. Nigeria

                      10 .1.1.7. Kenya

                      10 .1.1.10 . Egypt

                      10 .1.1.10 . Rest of the Middle East

           10 .1.2. By  Deployment Mode

           10 .1.3. By Technology

           10 .1.4. Application

           10.1.5. End User

           10 .1.6. Countries & Segments - Market Attractiveness Analysis

Chapter 11. Middle East and Africa Fintech Market– Company Profiles – (Overview, Product   Portfolio, Financials, Strategies & Developments)

11.1. Adyen N.V.

11.2. Tamara

11.3. Cisco Systems Inc., Liv. 11.4. Pepper

11.5. Afterpay Limited (Block Inc.)

11.6. PayTabs

11.7. Google Payment Corp.

11.8. Sarwa

11.9. Avant LLC

11.10.Tabby

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Frequently Asked Questions

Rising mobile and internet usage, along with heightened awareness of fintech's potential to address various financial challenges—such as access to banking services and cross-border transactions—are also contributing factors

The top players operating in the Middle East and Africa Fintech Market are - Adyen N.V., Tamara, Cisco Systems Inc., Liv., Pepper, Afterpay Limited (Block Inc.), PayTabs, Google Payment Corp., Sarwa, Avant LLC, Tabby.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the increasing necessity for digitization, with fintech and digital banking facilitating secure and remote operations across both the global financial services sector and the broader economy

The adoption of artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, and blockchain technology is significantly advancing across various industries, particularly within the BFSI sector. The integration of these cutting-edge technologies into BFSI solutions is enhancing business operations, boosting efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction.

 

The UAE is emerging as a preferred hub for financial service providers, including cryptocurrency exchanges and FX/CFD brokers

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