Crowdfunding in Saudi Arabia Are you looking for a smart way to finance your project without relying entirely on banks? Do you want to invest your money with competitive returns in a regulated and secure market?

Crowdfunding has become one of the fastest-growing financing solutions in recent years, supported by digital transformation and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to make investment more accessible across the Kingdom.

Today, project financing is no longer limited to major investors or banking institutions. Individuals and startups can now access capital through online platforms licensed by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) and the Capital Market Authority (CMA).

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the concept of crowdfunding, its types, advantages, risks, the leading platforms in Saudi Arabia, and how to get started step by step.

What Is Crowdfunding?

Crowdfunding is a financing model that relies on collecting small amounts of money from a large number of investors or supporters through online platforms to fund a project or business activity.

In Saudi Arabia, crowdfunding is supervised and regulated by official authorities to ensure investor protection and enhance market transparency.

Why Is Interest in Crowdfunding Increasing?

• The rapid growth of the startup sector.

• Simplified procedures through digital platforms.

• A wide variety of investment opportunities.

• Strong support for digital transformation under Vision 2030.

Types of Crowdfunding in Saudi Arabia

To fully understand the landscape, it is important to distinguish between the main types:

1. Debt-Based Crowdfunding 

Also known as peer-to-peer financing, this model allows investors to lend a specific amount to businesses or projects in exchange for a predetermined return over a fixed period.

Examples of licensed platforms:

• Lendo

• Sulfah

Advantages:

• Periodic returns

• Clear investment duration

• Relatively lower risk compared to equity investments

2. Equity Crowdfunding

In this model, investors purchase an ownership stake in a startup in exchange for their investment.

Prominent platforms include:

• Scopeer

• Emkan Arabia

Advantages:

• Opportunity for significant profits if the company grows

• Participation in the success of entrepreneurial ventures

Key Benefits of Crowdfunding

• Easy access to funding without complex banking procedures.

• Diversified investment opportunities across multiple sectors.

• Regulatory transparency under official supervision.

• Fully digital and streamlined processes.

• Ability to start with relatively small amounts.

• Competitive returns compared to some traditional instruments.

• Support for innovation and entrepreneurship within the Kingdom.

How to Get Started with Crowdfunding

If You Are an Investor:

1. Choose a platform licensed by regulatory authorities.

2. Create an account and complete the verification process.

3. Review available investment opportunities.

4. Evaluate the associated risks and expected returns.

5. Diversify your investments across multiple projects to reduce risk.

If You Are a Project Owner:

1. Prepare a strong feasibility study.

2. Submit your application through a licensed platform.

3. Define the funding amount and investment period.

4. Present your business plan clearly and transparently.

5. Provide regular updates to investors.

Key Statistics About Crowdfunding in Saudi Arabia

• The FinTech sector has experienced rapid growth in recent years.

• The number of licensed platforms has increased significantly.

• The volume of funding granted to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) has risen substantially.

This growth reflects strong investor confidence and government support for financial innovation.

Smart Strategies to Increase Your Chances of Success

1. Diversify your investments to minimize risk.

2. Carefully read platform reports and disclosures.

3. Monitor company performance regularly.

4. Start with a small amount and gradually increase your investment.

5. Focus on promising sectors such as technology and e-commerce.

Conclusion

Crowdfunding in Saudi Arabia is no longer a secondary option; it has become a strategic financial tool that enables investors and entrepreneurs to access real opportunities within a regulated and evolving market.

If you are seeking a modern investment opportunity or a flexible funding solution for your project, now is the right time to start — but with awareness, research, and proper planning.

Always remember: smart investing is not driven by enthusiasm alone, but by knowledge, analysis, and discipline.