COLABS, Pakistan’s leading venture-backed workspace and entrepreneurial community platform, has announced its entry into Saudi Arabia with its flagship site in Riyadh.
This move marks a significant milestone in strengthening the business and investment connections between the two countries, highlighting COLABS’ commitment to expanding its presence in the region.
Omar Shah, CEO and Co-Founder of COLABS, said that, “Our expansion into Saudi Arabia marks a defining moment for COLABS as we take what we’ve built in Pakistan to one of the most dynamic markets in the region. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has created incredible momentum for innovation and entrepreneurship. We see Riyadh as the natural starting point for our MENA journey, a hub where we can help bridge ecosystems, connect founders, and build communities that bring both the nations together.”
Riyadh marks 1st phase of COLABS’ regional growth strategy
The site, now under development and set to open in the coming months, is the first phase of COLABS’ MENA expansion strategy. The company has also secured additional investment and formalized a local partnership with Waseel Investment, which will play a key role in establishing the Riyadh site.
“We’re thrilled to partner with COLABS on this new chapter. This collaboration represents more than an investment; it’s a bridge between two thriving ecosystems. Together, we’ll help bring more Pakistani startups and businesses to Saudi Arabia, and open doors for Saudi entrepreneurs looking to connect with talent and innovation across Pakistan,” noted Faisal Al Rashed, Director of Investment, Waseel Partners.
The future of coworking: COLABS capitalizes on $1bn market opportunity
Saudi Arabia is now the fastest-growing startup ecosystem in MENA, attracting over $2 billion in venture funding in 2024 and accounting for more than 40 percent of all regional deals.
With the coworking market projected to surpass $1 billion by 2025 and a rapidly expanding entrepreneurial base, Riyadh offers a strong foundation for the platform’s next phase of growth. The local partnership with Waseel Partners follows COLABS’ earlier funding round in October 2024, led by Shorooq and Waad VC.
The expansion comes at a key time for Saudi-Pak relations. Adding to the renewed momentum in Pakistan-Saudi bilateral economic ties, with a shared focus on youth development, industrialization, and technological collaboration.
