PayPal Holdings has committed $100 million to support digital growth across the Middle East and Africa, with the funds set to fuel innovation, strengthen entrepreneurship, and promote inclusive economic development in one of the fastest-growing regions for online commerce.
The announcement was made on Tuesday in Dubai by PayPal’s President and CEO, Alex Chriss, who said the investment would be rolled out over the coming years. The funding will be channelled through a combination of minority investments, acquisitions, PayPal Ventures support, technology deployments, and recruitment of skilled personnel.
Chriss said the Middle East and Africa are home to some of the most dynamic and fast-evolving businesses in the world. He explained that the initiative is designed to help entrepreneurs scale faster, expand their reach across borders, and unlock new opportunities within the digital economy.
The announcement follows the launch of PayPal’s first regional hub in Dubai in April this year. The hub was created as a gateway to global commerce by providing businesses — from large corporations to small merchants — with frictionless payments, robust security systems, and wider access to international markets.
The $100 million commitment also builds on PayPal Ventures’ existing investments in the region, which include backing startups such as Tabby, Paymob, and Stitch. These ventures have been identified as some of the most promising players in digital payments and e-commerce.
Otto Williams, Senior Vice President, Regional Head and General Manager of PayPal Middle East and Africa, said the company is focused on deepening its presence in the region. He explained that the investment will ensure millions of consumers and businesses gain improved access to digital services while also connecting local enterprises more effectively with the global marketplace.
Williams added that PayPal is committed to strengthening partnerships that will open new opportunities for innovators and bring more communities into the digital economy.
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