YAP raises $41M to drive fintech expansion in the Middle East & Africa

Abbas Aziz By Abbas Aziz
3 Min Read

Dubai-based fintech startup YAP is making bold moves in the digital finance space after securing a $41 million investment to expand across Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ghana, and Pakistan. This funding round, led by Saudi Arabia’s AlJazira Capital, also saw participation from Abu Dawood Group, Astra Group, and Audacia Capital.

A Digital-First Approach to Banking

Since its launch in 2021, YAP has been redefining fintech, attracting over 130,000 users with its fully digital banking solutions. Unlike traditional banks that require costly licensing, YAP smartly partners with established financial institutions to fast-track market entry without dealing with regulatory roadblocks.

In Saudi Arabia, YAP has teamed up with Bank AlJazira to introduce new consumer and business banking services. Meanwhile, regulatory approvals have already been secured for entry into Ghana and Pakistan, and the company is actively preparing to launch in Egypt, a market known for its booming fintech potential.

Fintech for the Future

YAP provides users with a range of digital and physical banking products, including:

  • ✔️ Prepaid and virtual cards for seamless transactions
  • ✔️ Budgeting and spending tools to track expenses
  • ✔️ Instant transaction notifications for better financial control
  • ✔️ Card management features for easy banking access

What makes YAP’s approach stand out is its focus on financial inclusion in emerging markets, where millions still lack access to traditional banking services. By leveraging digital solutions, YAP is filling the gaps and revolutionizing financial accessibility across these regions.

What’s Next for YAP?

The company has big plans for growth, with its Series A funding round expected to close by late 2025. Additionally, YAP is actively targeting fintech, logistics, and proptech—sectors that are rapidly evolving with digital innovations.

  • Logistics: Tech-driven solutions for smarter deliveries
  • Proptech: Digital tools for real estate transactions
  • Fintech: Expanding digital banking for businesses and consumers

Reshaping the Future of Finance

With fintech gaining momentum across the Middle East and Africa, YAP is well-positioned to challenge traditional banking models and introduce a fresh, digital-first alternative. Their strategy of collaborating with banks instead of competing with them allows for faster growth, reduced regulatory hurdles, and enhanced customer accessibility.

For fintech enthusiasts, this latest development signals a shift in how digital finance is evolving in regions often overlooked in the global financial landscape. If YAP continues at this pace, it could soon be a major force in shaping the future of banking in emerging markets.