Top Startups in KSA, (Dhahran)

Dhahran’s transformation into a tech hotspot is a story worth knowing. Once seen as the beating heart of Saudi Arabia’s oil industry, this city is now emerging as a magnet for ambitious founders and innovators, thanks to a growing mesh of accelerators, incubators and VC funding. From the science parks nestled around King Fahd University to the deep pockets of venture capital arms like Wa’ed Ventures, Dhahran is laying down serious roots for early-stage startups.

Energy innovation, sustainability breakthroughs, digital transformation… you name it, the ecosystem here is fizzing with ideas (and plenty of pitch decks). According to Arageek, this is the place where local founders are finding the right mix of funding rounds and facilities to tackle problems that matter—from water scarcity to cybersecurity. If you’re seeking inspiration or a chance to park yourself amongst top talent and early adopter energy, this is a city to watch.

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Arzaq Plus is a Saudi-based foodtech startup revolutionizing the HoReCa supply chain by directly connecting suppliers with small and emerging food businesses. Founded in 2018 in Dammam, the platform leverages AI and smart logistics to streamline procurement and reduce operational costs. Its recent partnership with Foodics aims to further enhance its services with BNPL options and advanced analytics. Arzaq Plus is poised to redefine efficiency and accessibility in the Saudi foodservice industry.

CQR is on a mission to keep Saudi Arabia’s most vital infrastructure locked up tight. Combining quantum-resistant cybersecurity and AI, they’ve built security solutions that specifically protect energy, government, and financial entities against relentless attack. The team’s seen too many legacy security tools crumble under pressure, so they’ve dialled in on sophisticated, home-grown defences the region actually needs.

Put simply, this is why more founders in the Dhahran startup ecosystem are angling for mentors steeped in the region’s energy challenges—not just cash in the cap table.

Cipher has carved out a reputation as Dhahran’s go-to for critical infrastructure cybersecurity. Their suite of cyber tools blends AI with threat intelligence to keep energy giants and government agencies one step ahead of hackers. Not content with cookie-cutter solutions, Cipher is all about custom, proactive defence—earning nods as one of Saudi’s most promising startups to watch in 2025.

It’s another reminder that a close-knit, specialised community—armed with pitch-ready founders and the right mentorship—can turn technical know-how into long-lasting impact.

Digital Petroleum is a Saudi-based technology company specializing in AIoT solutions aimed at decarbonizing and digitizing industrial processes. Established in 2021 in Al Khobar, the company offers innovative platforms like "Deep Predict" and "Command Center" to enhance energy efficiency and operational performance. Their services cater to sectors such as oil & gas, water utilities, and manufacturing, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 for sustainable industrial advancement. Recognized for their contributions to sustainability, Digital Petroleum continues to lead in providing low-cost, high-impact digital solutions.

Based in Dhahran Techno Valley, DTV Energy Solutions is taking on the hard bit of renewables: storage. Using new materials and clever energy management software, they’re helping utilities, industries and commercial giants store solar and wind power with far better reliability. The goal? Let clients unlock the Kingdom’s renewable potential instead of relying on old-school back-up. They’ve already got DTV Ventures and Wa’ed Ventures in their corner, both stalwarts of Saudi venture capital.

DTV’s journey proves yet again that access to proper labs, science parks and accelerator support in Dhahran is where big ideas get the space to breathe.

GreenHydrogen is giving Saudi’s energy sector a clean twist by producing green hydrogen—using advanced electrolysis tech powered by solar, not fossil fuels. Their system combines proprietary catalysts and design tweaks tailored for the punishing desert climate, slashing production costs and making hydrogen viable for export. With heavyweights like Wa’ed Ventures and international energy funds on board, they’re turning the vision for a sustainable fuel future into reality.

A project like this is only possible with pitch-perfect timing, strong Series A backers, and the right access to world-class labs and talent.

Lahint is making a name for itself by tackling one of tech’s trickier challenges—natural language for Arabic speakers. They’re using AI-powered language technology so local enterprises and government outfits in Saudi Arabia and the wider MENA region can finally bridge digital communication gaps that global tech has never truly solved. With regional dialects and cultural quirks at the centre of their platform, Lahint’s offering is hitting the mark where big international firms have missed.

And this shows why a sharp accelerator or incubator in Dhahran can give startups like Lahint the backing they need to outpace global rivals on their own turf.

NetZero is a Saudi-based environmental company focused on helping organizations reduce their carbon footprint through smart, nature-based solutions. Founded in 2019 in Al Khobar, the company enables tree planting at scale and tracks environmental impact with precision. Their work directly supports national sustainability goals such as the Saudi Green Initiative. Through strategic partnerships, NetZero is redefining how the Kingdom approaches climate resilience.

Dhahran’s startup scene is in full swing, and it’s easy to see why. With a blend of top-notch research labs, collaboration across old-school energy and bleeding-edge technology, and a healthy flow of seed funding from VCs that get the local context, entrepreneurs aren’t just launching companies—they’re attacking big national challenges. If you’re thinking of joining this vibrant ecosystem, a few founder tips: polish your pitch deck until it shines; team up with a sector-specific incubator for the right expertise; and don’t be afraid to ask those ‘stupid’ questions while building your cap table—often they’re the ones that Acheive real clarity. Swapping out basic words for punchier synonyms, pulling in a snappier bridging line between key points, or giving your funding round summary a fresh coat of storytelling can also help. For those seeking a home base where momentum actually means something, Dhahran’s innovation spaces are the real deal.