Kuwait's Top 10 Startups That Tech Professionals Should Watch Out For in 2025

Kuwait's startup scene is absolutely exploding right now, and the numbers prove it! Kuwait's ICT market hit $22.48 billion in 2023 and is charging ahead to reach nearly $40 billion.

The startup ecosystem is getting a major boost from the National Fund for SMEs, which has already pumped over $350 million into more than 800 startups since 2014.

What's really cool is how successful companies like Boutiqaat, Floward, and Talabat are showing what's possible in Kuwait's tech space.

Success stories include wellness apps, laundry tech firms, and real estate platforms that are changing the game. The government's Vision 2035 plan is pushing things forward, with non-oil GDP expected to grow by 2.6% in 2025.

For tech professionals looking to make their mark, these startups offer incredible opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects in fintech, healthtech, and AI. The future's looking bright with Kuwait's tech scene set to contribute over 5% to the GDP by 2025, making it the perfect time to get involved with these innovative companies.

Evaluating Kuwait's top startups in 2025 requires a data-driven approach that measures real potential and impact. The assessment framework, based on established venture capital standards, examines critical factors including team capabilities, founder track records, and unique competitive advantages.

Each startup undergoes thorough analysis of their business model and market fit, with special attention to financial performance and scalability metrics. What makes a startup stand out is their ability to demonstrate measurable traction and sustainable growth patterns.

The evaluation process has evolved to include practical success indicators like customer acquisition costs, retention rates, and revenue growth.

Startups must show they're solving real problems with solutions people actually want to pay for. The assessment looks at whether they have the right timing in the market and if they can overcome implementation challenges.

Another crucial factor is the startup's ability to attract and retain top talent, especially in Kuwait's competitive tech landscape.

We also consider fundamental checklist items such as proper incorporation, clear capitalization tables, and strong pitch presentations.

Startups need to prove they're venture-scalable, meaning they can grow significantly without proportional cost increases. The most promising companies typically show strong unit economics and clear paths to profitability.

This structured evaluation helps identify startups that aren't just innovative, but also have solid business foundations and genuine potential for market leadership.

Founded in 2020, Qesma is revolutionizing Kuwait's financial scene with its Islamic-compliant Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) service.

What makes this startup special is how it lets people shop and split payments without breaking Islamic finance rules. Their service gives you options like paying in 30 days or breaking it into 4 parts - super straightforward and totally interest-free.

The company has raised an impressive $5B in funding, showing just how much investors believe in ethical finance solutions.

With 2-10 employees and operating in seed stage, they're lean but making waves in Kuwait's fintech space. Qesma's innovative approach to digital payments is changing how people think about shopping and budgeting.

They're growing fast by focusing on what matters to their users - simple payments that respect cultural values.

As someone who gets how important it is to shop smart while staying true to your principles, I can see why Qesma is becoming such a big deal. They're not just another payment app; they're building something that really connects with people's values and makes life easier. Looking at how BNPL is taking off in the Middle East, especially with younger shoppers, Qesma is definitely in the right place at the right time. The best part? They keep it real - no hidden fees or complicated terms, just straightforward payment options that work for everyone.

Li3ib has become a game-changer in Kuwait's sports scene since its launch in October 2017. Founded by Khaled Al-Amiri and Khaled Abdulqader, this innovative platform makes booking sports venues as easy as ordering takeout.

What started as a simple booking app has evolved into a comprehensive sports management powerhouse, especially after being acquired by Pro-Vision in 2020.

The platform now handles everything from organizing tournaments to providing photographers, referees, and medical staff for events. In 2024, they got a fresh new look with a bilingual brand identity that perfectly captures Kuwait's dynamic sports culture.

The app has seriously simplified the whole process of finding and booking sports facilities, whether you're planning a casual basketball game or a corporate tournament.

Their success comes from solving a real problem in Kuwait's fragmented sports market - connecting people with places to play. The platform's reporting features help venue partners optimize their performance, while the community-building aspect brings together athletes of all levels.

What's really cool is how they're tackling the supply-demand gap in Kuwait's sports facilities, making it easier for everyone to get active. Their focus on both individual users and corporate clients shows they understand what the market needs.

Li3ib isn't just another booking app - it's becoming the go-to platform for Kuwait's entire sports ecosystem, handling everything from venue management to event organization.

IdeaLink, a game-changing force in Kuwait's tech scene, is revolutionizing the landscape through their innovative STEAM kits and robotics solutions.

Their signature IdeaBot kit has become the go-to platform for learning robotics in Kuwait, while their 3D printing services are transforming how local businesses approach prototyping and manufacturing.

According to recent market analysis, the global 3D printing market is set to exceed $50 billion by 2025, and IdeaLink is positioning Kuwait to capture a significant share of this growth.

IdeaLink is combining advanced materials science with cutting-edge technology.

They're not just selling products - they're creating an entire ecosystem for innovation. Their range of materials, from basic PLA to advanced metal composites, is enabling everything from quick prototypes to end-use parts.

Plus, their training programs are seriously impressive, giving students and professionals hands-on experience with the latest tech.

For anyone looking to break into Kuwait's tech scene, IdeaLink is definitely the place to watch.

They're constantly pushing boundaries with new applications in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The best part? They're making all this advanced technology accessible through their retail platform and educational initiatives.

Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast, IdeaLink is providing the tools and knowledge needed to turn innovative ideas into reality.

Founded in 2012, Tabeeby has emerged as Kuwait's leading digital health platform, revolutionizing healthcare access through innovative technology.

The platform connects patients with qualified doctors for immediate consultations through video calls, making quality healthcare accessible from anywhere. Led by co-founders William Martin and Lubna Omar, the company secured $770,000 in funding, demonstrating investor confidence in their vision.

Their mobile app matches patients with highly qualified specialists who can address medical concerns either instantly or at scheduled times, while featuring verified user reviews to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare providers.

What makes Tabeeby stand out is its comprehensive approach to digital healthcare.

The platform offers audio and video consultation services, making it super convenient for users to get medical advice without leaving their homes. With offices in both Kuwait City and Dubai, Tabeeby competes with major players like Okadoc and Doctolib, while maintaining its unique position in the Kuwaiti healthcare market.

The company's success in bridging the healthcare accessibility gap has earned it recognition as one of the top 10 startups to watch in Kuwait, proving that local tech solutions can have a major impact on healthcare delivery.

Looking ahead, Tabeeby continues to expand its services and reach, focusing on making specialized healthcare more accessible to everyone in Kuwait.

The platform's growth reflects a wider trend in digital health transformation, showing how technology can make quality healthcare available to more people. For tech professionals seeking opportunities in Kuwait's growing digital health sector, Tabeeby represents an exciting example of how startups can successfully combine healthcare expertise with technological innovation.

Since its launch in 2020, Sihaty has revolutionized healthcare access in Kuwait, securing $1.3 million in pre-series A funding and attracting over 200,000 app downloads.

The platform's success stems from its digital-first approach, offering 24-hour medication delivery and seamless doctor consultations. Recent studies show that healthcare providers in Kuwait are increasingly accepting virtual care delivery, recognizing its potential to transform patient care.

What makes Sihaty stand out is its comprehensive digital health infrastructure - patients can access medical records, schedule appointments, and receive prescriptions all through one platform.

The company's innovative virtual-first strategy integrates technology with compassionate care, creating a balanced healthcare experience that maintains the human touch while leveraging digital efficiency.

Beyond just providing telemedicine services, Sihaty is expanding into mental health care, addressing a crucial need in the Arab region. With plans to grow across the Arabian Gulf, and backed by major investors like Rasameel Investment Company and Doha Tech Angels, Sihaty is reshaping how Kuwait approaches healthcare delivery.

Their success shows that the future of healthcare isn't just about treating illness - it's about making quality care accessible to everyone through smart technology.

Kem stands out in Kuwait's fintech scene with its revolutionary approach to peer-to-peer payment solutions, making those annoying IBANs and payment links totally unnecessary.

The platform's security game is next level, using multi-factor authentication and encryption that makes sure your money stays safe - which is super important since studies show 23% of people have accidentally sent money to the wrong person before.

What makes Kem different is their QR code technology, which is predicted to be the leading contactless payment method through 2026, according to McKinsey & Co.

Modern payment systems like Kem are changing the game for both everyday users and businesses in Kuwait.

The global P2P payment market is exploding, expected to hit $13 trillion by 2032, and Kuwait's definitely riding that wave. With features like instant transfers and built-in fraud protection, Kem makes managing money actually straightforward.

Plus, there's no dealing with those crazy bank fees or waiting forever for your money to show up.

What's really cool is how secure and user-friendly these systems have become.

Kem's taken all the complex stuff about transferring money and made it simple - just scan a QR code and you're done. The platform's success shows in the numbers, with more people in Kuwait switching to digital payments every day.

For businesses, especially small ones, it's a total game-changer, letting them accept payments without expensive POS systems.

JustClean has absolutely transformed the laundry game since 2016, growing from a small Kuwait-based startup to a major tech player across the Gulf region. As reported by Arabian Business, they're crushing it with their three-in-one business model that includes a marketplace app, logistics operation, and SaaS platform.

They've expanded their reach across the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, with prices starting from just 30 AED for laundry collection.

Their app is seriously next-level, letting users book everything from laundry pickups to car washes with literally just a few taps. What makes them stand out is their commitment to quality - they've got over 370 screened and trusted partners, maintaining a solid 9.1+ rating from more than 73,000 customers.

After securing an $8 million Series B funding round, they're growing even faster, adding at least 10 new laundries every month in the UAE alone.

The best part? They're not just about laundry anymore - they've branched out into home cleaning and car wash services, making life easier for everyone. Their tech platform handles everything from booking to payment, and they even offer 24/7 customer support.

With plans to expand internationally beyond the GCC, JustClean is definitely one of the most exciting tech startups to watch in Kuwait right now.

Smart Space is transforming Kuwait's storage industry with their tech-forward approach, riding the wave of a rapidly expanding global smart space market that's set to hit $15.3 billion by 2025.

Their innovative system combines AI-powered inventory tracking with user-friendly mobile access, making storage management actually fun. What makes Smart Space stand out is their flexible payment options and customizable storage solutions, perfect for both personal and business needs.

The platform's integration with modern tech has seriously caught on with Kuwait's digital-native population, driving impressive growth numbers.

Every aspect of storage management becomes super simple through their app - from scheduling pickups to tracking what's in storage through digital inventories.

Smart Space isn't just about convenience though; they've added a sustainable angle with recyclable packaging options. Their automated storage and retrieval systems optimize space usage way better than traditional storage methods, delivering a 40% boost in space efficiency.

Real-time notifications keep users in the loop about their stored items, while smart recommendations powered by AI help users make the most of their space.

The numbers speak for themselves - an 85% user satisfaction rate with the app interface, and a growing customer base that increased by 40% this year alone.

Smart Space is clearly setting new standards in Kuwait's storage sector, making itself essential for anyone looking to declutter their life or business. Regular app updates and feature additions show they're serious about staying ahead of user needs and tech trends.

As more Kuwait residents embrace digital solutions, Smart Space is perfectly positioned to lead the storage revolution with their blend of practicality and innovation.

Nutribox stands out as Kuwait's most exciting wellness tech startup, transforming how people approach their health goals. Their certified health coaches work one-on-one with clients, creating personalized plans that actually stick.

What makes them different? They don't just throw generic advice at you - they dive deep into understanding your lifestyle, habits, and what really motivates you to change.

The results speak for themselves: over 70% of users see real improvements in their health within six months.

The platform combines smart technology with human connection, featuring an intuitive app that keeps you connected with your coach 24/7.

Through evidence-based coaching methods, they help you tackle everything from nutrition and exercise to stress management and sleep quality.

Their coaches aren't just cheerleaders - they're highly trained professionals who know how to guide you through sustainable lifestyle changes.

What really sets Nutribox apart is their focus on making wellness accessible and achievable.

They use a modern approach to health coaching that includes virtual check-ins, personalized meal plans, and workout guidance that fits your schedule.

Users report an amazing 85% stick-to-it rate with their programs, which is pretty incredible considering how hard it usually is to maintain new habits. The best part? They're not about quick fixes or crazy restrictions - they help you build a lifestyle that you can actually maintain long-term.

Whether you're trying to get fit, eat better, or just feel more energized, Nutribox is changing the game in Kuwait's wellness scene.

PlantBaby has totally changed the game in plant-based nutrition since launching in 2020. Started by Patricia Taylor and Alex Abelin after they couldn't find healthy options for their own child, this future-forward nutrition movement has grown into something amazing.

Their flagship product, Kiki Milk, is crushing it - made with organic ingredients like oats, hemp seeds, and superfoods, without any of the bad stuff like refined sugars or artificial additives.

What's really cool is that they've hit $6 million in revenue and are expanding globally to over 180 countries through iHerb.

The company isn't just about selling products though - they're serious about education and empowering families to make better food choices. Working with pediatricians and nutritionists, they've secured $4 million in seed funding to develop even more clean-label, organic options for kids.

They've got this really cool digital platform called Kiki Marketplace where they feature other nutrition-focused brands, and they're constantly developing new products like unsweetened milk alternatives and organic seed butters.

Their commitment to both nutrition and sustainability is making waves in the industry, proving that you can build a successful business while sticking to values that matter.

It's pretty inspiring to see a startup that's actually making healthy food accessible and appealing to kids.

Kuwait's tech scene is seriously heating up, with the ICT market projected to hit $39.83 billion by 2028, growing at an impressive 9.84% annually. Recent market analysis shows that AI investment in local startups has jumped fourfold since 2000, creating tons of opportunities for aspiring tech professionals.

The startup ecosystem is getting a major boost from initiatives like Zain's tech accelerator program, which is connecting Kuwait's entrepreneurs directly with Silicon Valley giants.

What's really exciting is how Kuwait's digital transformation is evolving, especially in areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and financial services.

The government's Vision 2035 plan is putting serious momentum behind this growth, aiming to transform Kuwait into a digital powerhouse with smart cities and AI-driven industries.

While SMEs currently make up just 3% of GDP, there's a huge push to change that, with innovative programs and partnerships emerging to support local tech talent.

The focus on cybersecurity is particularly crucial, considering global cybercrime costs are expected to hit $10.5 trillion by 2025. For anyone looking to jump into Kuwait's tech scene, the timing couldn't be better - the ecosystem is primed for innovation, backed by solid investment support, and ready to compete on the global stage.