PayPal invests $100 million to grow digital reach in Middle East  and Africa

At a Glance

• PayPal commits $100 million to expand digital services and support entrepreneurs in Africa and the Middle East.
• Investment includes minority stakes, acquisitions, and PayPal Ventures funding for regional startups.
• Dubai hub and startup partnerships aim to connect local businesses to global markets.

PayPal Holdings is expanding its footprint across the Middle East and Africa with a $100 million investment aimed at driving digital innovation, supporting entrepreneurs, and widening access to online commerce. 

The move highlights the company’s growing focus on regions experiencing rapid growth in digital payments and e-commerce.

The investment will be deployed through a mix of minority stakes, acquisitions, PayPal Ventures funding, and technology deployments.

These initiatives are designed to help local businesses scale operations, increase efficiency, and access new markets.

By bringing more businesses and consumers into the digital economy, PayPal aims to create opportunities across sectors such as retail, fintech, and online services. 

Alex Chriss, PayPal’s president and CEO, emphasized the region’s potential.

“The Middle East and Africa host some of the world’s most dynamic businesses,” Chriss said.

“This $100 million investment will help entrepreneurs expand their reach, grow faster, and tap into opportunities in the digital economy.”

The announcement builds on PayPal’s April launch of its first regional hub in Dubai.

The center provides businesses—from large corporations to small merchants—with secure, frictionless payments and easier access to international markets.

This hub complements PayPal Ventures’ investments in regional startups, including Tabby, Paymob, and Stitch, positioning the company as a long-term partner in the region’s digital commerce evolution.

Connecting Local Businesses Globally 

Otto Williams, senior vice president and general manager for PayPal Middle East and Africa, said the company is committed to broadening its regional reach.

“We want millions of consumers and businesses to access the digital services they need to grow,” Williams said.

“This initiative is about connecting local businesses with the global marketplace and ensuring they have the tools to succeed.”