As the Middle East becomes an increasingly attractive market for international startups, companies like Ovo Energy, GoEuro, and ManoMano are leading the way.
By focusing on sustainability, mobility, and retail, these startups are positioning themselves for success in a region ripe with opportunity.
Their tailored strategies, strong funding plans, and commitment to meeting local needs are key factors that will help them thrive in the Middle Eastern market.
Ovo Energy (UK) – Revolutionizing Renewable Energy
Ovo Energy is one of the UK’s leading renewable energy startups. They are positioning themselves to tackle the region’s growing demand for sustainable and efficient energy solutions. By offering renewable energy sources and energy-efficient products, Ovo Energy aims to contribute to the region’s environmental goals.
Ovo has been working on building partnerships with local governments and energy companies, creating awareness around green energy alternatives.
Their focus is to help the Middle East transition to more sustainable energy sources, especially in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where renewable energy adoption is gaining momentum.
Ovo is seeking to raise around $200 million to support its market entry and expansion efforts in the region, including the development of localized energy solutions and building a regional network.
With the Middle East heavily investing in sustainable energy, Ovo‘s commitment to clean energy aligns well with regional initiatives.
Their innovative technology and experience in the renewable energy sector position them to capture a significant market share in the region.
GoEuro (Germany) – Transforming Regional Transportation
GoEuro (now known as Omio), a German startup, has transformed the way people travel in Europe, and it is now setting its sights on the Middle East.
By offering integrated travel booking services across trains, buses, flights, and car rentals, GoEuro aims to streamline transportation options in the region, which currently lacks a unified, easy-to-use platform for multi-modal travel.
The company is working on forming partnerships with local transportation providers and integrating local modes of transport into their app, such as metro systems, taxis, and buses.
GoEuro is also tailoring its platform to provide services that address specific regional needs, like offering routes connecting major cities and tourist destinations.
GoEuro is looking to raise around $150 million to support its launch in the Middle East. These funds will go toward developing a localized version of their app, securing partnerships with local transport companies, and marketing efforts to increase brand awareness.
With the Middle East seeing an increase in both tourism and mobility, GoEuro’s one-stop platform will appeal to both tourists and residents alike.
The startup’s European success, combined with its commitment to improving transportation in the region, makes it a strong contender for capturing market share in this rapidly growing sector.
ManoMano (France) – E-commerce for DIY and Home Improvement
ManoMano, a French e-commerce platform for DIY and home improvement, is eyeing opportunities in the Middle East’s rapidly growing retail sector.
With a strong online presence in Europe, ManoMano is looking to replicate its success by providing products for home renovation, construction, and gardening in the Middle Eastern market.
ManoMano is already building relationships with local suppliers to offer a curated selection of products that cater to the region’s preferences.
The company is focusing on e-commerce optimization, with particular attention to local payment methods, delivery logistics, and customer service.
ManoMano is seeking approximately $250 million to enter the Middle Eastern market, which will fund logistics infrastructure, localized product offerings, and marketing strategies.
The Middle Eastern retail market is growing fast, and e-commerce is booming, especially in home improvement.
ManoMano’s focus on providing high-quality products through a user-friendly platform gives it a competitive edge in this space.
The company’s established brand reputation in Europe will also help attract a loyal customer base.
The Middle East – A Launchpad for Global Growth
The Middle East is no longer just a promising market—it’s becoming a launchpad for global growth and innovation.
European startups like Ovo Energy, GoEuro, and ManoMano are among the pioneers leading the charge, but they won’t be the last.
With the region’s increasing focus on smart cities, green energy initiatives, and digital transformation, opportunities are expanding across sectors.
Notably, governments are dedicating significant resources to supporting innovation, such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s NextGenFDI initiative, which aim to attract high-growth startups and technology-driven solutions.
For startups willing to adapt, collaborate, and localize their offerings, the Middle East could be the key to unlocking their next phase of exponential growth—not just in the region but far beyond.
