Saudi Arabia Sees 51% Surge in Blockchain Business Registrations in Q2 2025

Saudi Arabia experienced a notable 51% increase in blockchain business registrations during the second quarter of 2025, bringing the total number of registered blockchain companies to over 4,000. This surge is a clear indication of the growing confidence among investors and entrepreneurs in the Kingdom's tech ecosystem, particularly in high-growth sectors such as Web3, decentralized finance (DeFi), and enterprise blockchain solutions.

This growth is driven by regulatory reforms that have streamlined the business setup process, making it easier for companies to establish and operate within the Kingdom. The new Commercial Register Law and Trade Names Law, for instance, allow businesses to operate nationwide under a single commercial record, eliminating the need for regional subsidiary registrations and reducing administrative complexity and cost. These reforms are part of Saudi Arabia's broader Vision 2030 and National Transformation Program, which aim to diversify the economy away from oil by prioritizing digital infrastructure.

The surge in blockchain business registrations is not limited to domestic investors. Foreign and GCC investor participation surged by 38%, with 38,640 foreign nationals and 31,488 GCC investors establishing businesses in the second quarter of 2025. This influx of foreign investment underscores the global recognition of Saudi Arabia as a hub for innovation and technology. Additionally, women accounted for 49% of new commercial licenses issued, marking a significant shift in gender representation within the Kingdom's business landscape, including in the crypto and fintech sectors.

Riyadh emerged as the epicenter of this digital economy boom, accounting for 28,181 new commercial licenses in the second quarter. The capital also recorded the majority of AI and analytics-related activity, with 8,909 AI registrations and 3,775 cloud data companies. Other regions showing notable growth in digital business activity include Makkah with 14,498 licenses, the Eastern Province with 12,985, and Asir with 3,875, gaining attention as an emerging investment destination.

The Ministry of Commerce is actively rectifying and updating commercial registrations to ensure transparency, compliance, and a level playing field. These efforts directly contribute to curbing commercial concealment, a long-standing economic challenge. The surge in blockchain business registrations is a testament to Saudi Arabia's commitment to innovation and digital transformation, reflecting the broader regional trend towards embracing emerging technologies. As the Kingdom continues to invest in technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain, it is poised to become a regional leader in the adoption and implementation of these solutions, paving the way for a more diversified and resilient economy.