- Tabby is set to acquire Tweeq, a Saudi digital wallet licensed by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), enhancing its financial product suite.
- The acquisition allows Tabby to integrate Tweeq’s digital wallet, offering new financial tools such as spending accounts, cards, and money management options.
- Tabby’s recent Series D funding round closed at $200 million, led by notable investors including Wellington Management and Bluepool Capital.
- Tweeq will continue operating independently within Tabby’s ecosystem, pending regulatory approvals.
In a significant development for the Middle Eastern fintech landscape, Saudi Arabia-based Tabby has completed the acquisition of Tweeq, a digital wallet licensed by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA). This strategic move was announced during the 24 Fintech event, Saudi Arabia’s premier fintech conference.
Overview of Tabby and Tweeq
Tabby, founded in 2019 in the UAE by Hosam Arab, has rapidly grown to become a leading player in the buy now, pay later (BNPL) sector. With an impressive annual transaction volume exceeding $6 billion, Tabby has established itself as a major force in the region’s financial technology space.
On the other hand, Tweeq, launched in 2020 by Saeed Albuhairi and Abdulaziz Almalki, offers a versatile digital wallet service. As one of the first electronic money institutions licensed in Saudi Arabia, Tweeq provides a spending account that enables users to manage their finances by spending, sending, and controlling their money efficiently.
Expansion of Financial Products
The acquisition of Tweeq is set to significantly enhance Tabby’s financial product offerings. By integrating Tweeq’s digital wallet capabilities, Tabby plans to broaden its suite of financial services.
This integration will allow Tabby to offer digital spending accounts, payment cards, and advanced money management tools to its customers. This expansion aligns with Tabby’s commitment to providing a comprehensive range of financial solutions.
In addition to expanding Tabby’s product range, the acquisition is expected to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. The integration aims to boost the availability of digital financial services, contributing to a more inclusive and cashless economy.
Through this acquisition, Tabby will leverage Tweeq’s innovative solutions to further its mission of enhancing financial accessibility and inclusivity in the region.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
Tabby’s recent Series D funding round, which closed in November 2023 with $200 million raised, underscores the company’s robust financial position.
The round was led by Wellington Management and Bluepool Capital, with significant participation from existing investors such as STV, Mubadala Investment Capital, PayPal Ventures, and Arbor Ventures. This infusion of capital will support Tabby’s continued growth and strategic initiatives, including the integration of Tweeq.
As part of the acquisition agreement, Tweeq will continue to operate independently within Tabby’s ecosystem. The partnership will allow Tabby to enhance its service offerings while complying with regulatory requirements. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval and the completion of necessary legal and administrative procedures.
Hosam Arab, CEO and Co-Founder of Tabby, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “Tweeq has made significant strides in meeting Saudi Arabia’s financial needs with its mobile-first spending account.
Joining forces with Tweeq will enable us to introduce a new range of financial products that empower our customers to manage their money more effectively, whether they are spending, sending, or saving.”
Saeed Albuhairi, Co-Founder and CEO of Tweeq, highlighted the potential benefits of the merger: “We are excited about the opportunity to integrate Tweeq’s services into Tabby’s ecosystem. This merger will allow us to offer innovative alternatives to traditional banking for millions of users across the GCC, enhancing their financial management experience.”
Impact on the Fintech Ecosystem
The acquisition of Tweeq by Tabby marks a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia’s fintech industry, highlighting the sector’s growth and evolving maturity. It also reflects the broader expansion of financial technology across the Middle East.
The transaction is poised to have a substantial impact on the region’s fintech ecosystem, offering a glimpse into the future of digital financial services.
Overall, Tabby’s acquisition of Tweeq represents a strategic move aimed at expanding its financial product offerings and reinforcing its position in the regional fintech market. As the deal progresses through regulatory channels, it promises to reshape the financial services landscape in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
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