Global digital commerce platform PayPal announced on Wednesday a $100 million investment commitment for the Middle East and Africa (MEA), aimed at supporting inclusive economic growth across the region.
MEA investment
The investment will be deployed through a mix of minority stakes, acquisitions, funding via PayPal Ventures, and expanded investments in people and technology, according to a company statement.
The commitment builds on PayPal Ventures’ existing backing of regional startups, including Tabby, Paymob, and Stitch, reinforcing the company’s long-term presence in the MEA fintech ecosystem.
Otto Williams, senior vice president, regional head, and general manager of PayPal MEA, said the company is focused on expanding its footprint in the region and enabling millions of consumers and businesses to access the digital tools they need to grow and compete globally.
Executive comment
“By dedicating a $100 million investment to this region over the coming years, we’re investing in the technologies, partnerships, and solutions that will help entrepreneurs scale faster, expand their reach beyond borders, and unlock new opportunities for growth in the digital economy,” said Alex Chriss, PayPal’s president and chief executive officer.
Dubai regional hub
In April, PayPal opened its first regional headquarters for the MEA region at Dubai Internet City as part of its expansion strategy.
The company said the Dubai hub will enhance access to global commerce capabilities, supporting both large enterprises and small businesses in expanding cross-border sales. The move followed a series of major merchant and partner agreements signed in the region in recent months.
Company scale
In 2024, PayPal processed $1.68 trillion in total payment volume and generated $31.8 billion in revenue. The platform operates in more than 200 markets worldwide.
