Saudi Arabia’s agritech scene is thriving, with startups emerging to address the pressing challenges in sustainability and supply chain efficiency. Leading the charge in this space is Nabt, a Saudi-based agritech startup that recently closed a $1.5 million Seed investment round led by Merak Capital, along with support from prominent angel investors. This funding marks a pivotal achievement for Nabt while underscoring the growing importance of food technology solutions in Saudi Arabia.
Founded in 2022 by Abdullah Alotaibi, Nabt is a B2B marketplace that connects farmers directly with businesses, focusing on transparency, efficiency, and sustainability within the fresh produce supply chain. The recent investment will accelerate Nabt’s product development and broaden its market reach, positioning the company as a key player in Saudi Arabia’s ambitious agricultural objectives under Vision 2030. By supporting Nabt, Merak Capital aims to reshape the way fresh produce is sourced and distributed, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s goals of self-sufficiency in the food sector.
Saudi Arabia’s agricultural sector has traditionally faced challenges such as water scarcity, high import dependency, and the need for improved supply chain infrastructure. With an estimated value of $18.77 billion in 2024, the sector is anticipated to grow to $24.14 billion by 2029, driven largely by innovation and government-backed initiatives. Nabt’s approach aligns with this growth trajectory by promoting efficiency and sustainability through direct farmer-to-business connections, reducing waste, and enhancing the predictability of produce supply.
One of the standout milestones for Nabt’s journey is its participation in the Sunbolah FoodTech Accelerator, a program led by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) that seeks to foster innovation in local agritech. Nabt’s involvement has allowed it to gain valuable insights, network with international industry leaders, and tap into a wealth of knowledge and support—particularly through the program’s recent industry visit to Paris and SIAL 2024, the renowned international food exhibition. This experience has equipped Nabt with the tools to bring advanced food technology practices back to Saudi Arabia and meet key players and partners in the industry.
Merak Capital’s investment in Nabt reflects its commitment to supporting technology-driven solutions aligned with national priorities. By backing Nabt’s work to improve supply chain efficiency in the region, Merak Capital continues to build a diversified portfolio that supports the Kingdom’s economic diversification and technological growth.
Under Alotaibi’s leadership, Nabt is transforming the fresh produce supply chain with digital solutions that boost transparency and efficiency. By connecting farmers directly with businesses, Nabt reduces intermediaries, ensures fair pricing, and streamlines operations. Today, Nabt links thousands of farmers with buyers across Saudi Arabia, creating a reliable and sustainable farm-to-business ecosystem that benefits local farmers and supports the country’s fresh produce supply.
As Nabt accelerates its efforts, it is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s agritech landscape. Aligned with Vision 2030, Nabt’s technology-driven approach in agritech supports local food production and reduces reliance on imports by enhancing local supply chains. Saudi Arabia’s agritech scene is ripe for growth, driven by startups like Nabt that leverage technology to address critical challenges. Supported by investors such as Merak Capital, the broader tech landscape in the Kingdom is evolving rapidly, paving the way for sustainable, secure, and self-sufficient industries. Nabt’s journey highlights the potential of tech innovation not only in agriculture but across sectors, fostering positive, lasting impacts within Saudi Arabia and beyond.
