The Garage: Saudi Arabia officially unveils largest startup hub in the Middle East

Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia officially unveiled “The Garage,” its latest addition to the thriving startup ecosystem on Monday. Situated within the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology in Riyadh, The Garage spans an impressive 28,000 square meters, earning the title of the largest innovation district in the Middle East.

The transformation of a former parking structure into a bustling workspace has given rise to this innovation hub, accommodating more than 300 startup companies. The facility boasts 24 state-of-the-art meeting rooms, an expansive event space capable of hosting over 1,000 individuals, and dedicated workshop areas.

The journey of The Garage commenced in April 2022, marked by its mission to empower and nurture startups. It has garnered valuable partnerships along the way, including notable collaborators such as Google for Startups and the National Center for Information Technology Development.

The diverse range of programs offered at The Garage includes “The Garage Plus,” designed to accelerate startup growth, “ACCESS” for startups, “The Garage Incubator,” “MVP Lab,” “GAIA Startup Accelerator,” and the Middle East’s inaugural “Antler” program.

In a span of ten program cycles, The Garage has successfully graduated more than 230 startup companies and nurtured 450 founders hailing from over 50 countries worldwide. These startups have not only achieved significant milestones during their tenure at The Garage but have also collectively generated revenues exceeding SR24.5 million (approximately $6.5 million). Furthermore, they have secured substantial investments amounting to over SR215 million (approximately $57.3 million), in addition to benefiting from comprehensive training programs.

The Garage has played host to more than 40 events, drawing participation from 150 local and international startups. These events have attracted a remarkable turnout of over 3,500 attendees, comprising partners, investors, forward-thinking entrepreneurs, and industry experts.

The inauguration of The Garage signifies a pivotal moment in the local and global startup landscape. It opens the doors for founders to join The Garage community, offering them access to an integrated ecosystem of partners and innovators.

The Garage made its debut at the first Leab conference in 2022, solidifying its role as the primary hub for startups. It serves as an incubator for promising Saudi and international ventures, all stemming from the heart of the capital, Riyadh.

The Garage aspires to be the ultimate destination for tech startups, offering a unique business model that encompasses incubation, acceleration, and a myriad of support services. It is not just a workspace; it represents a way of life and a community hub. Nestled in a strategically vital location, it provides proximity to creative minds and national laboratories across various domains, creating an inspiring environment for every innovator in search of like-minded individuals.