PayPal has announced a $100 million investment to accelerate digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa, aiming to fuel innovation, support entrepreneurs, and expand access to the digital economy. The region is one of the fastest-growing markets for online commerce, and global players like PayPal are racing to capture this growth by backing startups, developing infrastructure, and strengthening cross-border payment solutions.
The investment will be deployed through minority stakes, acquisitions, PayPal Ventures funding, talent recruitment, and technology rollouts. By directing resources into these areas, PayPal hopes to help local businesses scale, give innovators new opportunities, and bring millions of additional consumers into the digital economy. The company already has ties to the region, with investments in notable startups including Tabby, Paymob, and Stitch.
“By dedicating a $100 million investment to this region, we’re supporting entrepreneurs to scale faster and unlock new opportunities in the digital economy,” said Alex Chriss, PayPal CEO. Otto Williams, PayPal’s regional head, added: “We’re focused on building stronger connections between local businesses and the global marketplace.”
The announcement comes just months after PayPal launched its first regional hub in Dubai in April 2025. The hub was established to deliver global commerce tools, from frictionless payment solutions to enhanced security features, designed for businesses of all sizes. With this investment, PayPal signals its growing commitment to the Middle East and Africa, positioning the region as a key driver of the future digital economy.
