In recent years, Green Startups in the GCC have been quietly making waves in the world of sustainable innovation. While the Gulf region is often associated with oil wealth and luxury development, a new generation of entrepreneurs is now rewriting that narrative—focusing on clean energy, waste management, green construction, and water conservation.
These startups may not be household names yet, but they are playing a crucial role in driving eco-conscious change from within the region. Let’s take a closer look at these hidden gems leading the green revolution across the Gulf.
Why Green Startups Matter in the GCC
The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), consisting of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait, is undergoing a massive shift towards sustainable development. Governments are investing heavily in Vision 2030 goals, and climate action is becoming a top priority.
However, large-scale government initiatives need grassroots support. That’s where startups come in. These young companies are not only addressing local environmental challenges, but also creating jobs and innovating solutions that are scalable beyond borders.
1. Olive Grows – Saudi Arabia
What they do:
Based in Riyadh, Olive Grows is a biotech startup that uses advanced hydroponic farming techniques to grow herbs, microgreens, and vegetables using 90% less water. Their systems are designed to work in harsh desert climates with minimal soil and maximum efficiency.
Why it matters:
Saudi Arabia imports over 80% of its food. By enabling local food production, Olive Grows is reducing carbon emissions from food transportation and improving food security.
Green Impact:
- Water-efficient farming
- Reduced dependency on imports
- Promotes local agriculture
2. The Surpluss – UAE
What they do:
The Surpluss is a B2B platform that helps businesses reuse surplus resources like materials, products, and even talent. Based in the UAE, the startup promotes a circular economy by matching surplus with demand across industries.
Why it matters:
In fast-growing cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, excess waste from construction and manufacturing is a major issue. The Surpluss helps reduce this waste while saving businesses money.
Green Impact:
- Supports circular economy
- Reduces industrial waste
- Encourages collaboration
3. Re-Bottle – Bahrain
What they do:
Re-Bottle is Bahrain’s first startup dedicated to glass bottle collection and upcycling. They collect used glass bottles from cafes, bars, and households, then clean, reshape, and resell them as premium eco-products.
Why it matters:
Bahrain generates tons of glass waste annually. Re-Bottle is pioneering a creative way to reduce landfill waste and inspire responsible consumer behavior.
Green Impact:
- Waste reduction
- Upcycled product creation
- Community awareness
4. SunBox – Kuwait
What they do:
SunBox provides off-grid solar kits designed for homes and small businesses in remote areas of Kuwait. The kits include solar panels, batteries, and inverters, enabling users to generate their own clean power.
Why it matters:
Although Kuwait has abundant sunlight, solar energy usage remains low. SunBox is empowering individuals and small enterprises to cut their electricity bills and carbon footprint.
Green Impact:
- Clean energy access
- Reduces dependence on fossil fuels
- Supports energy equity
5. Qatra Water Solutions – Oman
What they do:
Qatra focuses on wastewater recycling and water reuse solutions tailored to the Gulf’s arid climate. The Muscat-based startup partners with municipalities and private sectors to help them reduce water wastage.
Why it matters:
Water scarcity is a pressing concern in Oman. Qatra’s innovative technologies allow graywater to be safely reused for irrigation, industrial purposes, and more.
Green Impact:
- Reduces water consumption
- Protects groundwater sources
- Supports sustainable landscaping
6. Eco Souk – Qatar
What they do:
Eco Souk is an eco-lifestyle e-commerce startup based in Doha. It curates sustainable, plastic-free products from around the region, helping consumers make greener choices in their everyday lives.
Why it matters:
Consumer demand for eco-friendly products in Qatar is growing, but supply remains limited. Eco Souk fills this gap by supporting regional artisans and green brands.
Green Impact:
- Promotes ethical consumption
- Reduces single-use plastic
- Builds sustainable community
The Future of Green Startups in the GCC
The rise of Green Startups in the GCC signals a fundamental change in the way the region views sustainability—not just as a government responsibility but as a business opportunity. These startups are proving that environmental responsibility and profitability can go hand in hand.
Challenges They Face:
- Limited funding for early-stage eco startups
- Regulatory hurdles
- Market awareness and adoption
But there’s hope. Support ecosystems are growing:
- UAE’s Hub71 and Masdar City offer green incubators
- Saudi’s KAUST provides research-backed startup support
- Qatar Foundation and Bahrain’s Tamkeen are nurturing eco-preneurship
What You Can Do to Support
Whether you’re a consumer, investor, policymaker, or student, supporting green startups is easier than you think:
- Buy from green businesses
- Share their stories online
- Choose eco products over conventional ones
- Encourage your workplace to adopt sustainable practices
- Invest in green innovation
Even small actions can create a ripple effect.
Final Thoughts
The world is watching the GCC as it transforms from oil-dependence to sustainability leadership. While mega-projects like NEOM and Masdar City make the headlines, it’s the Green Startups in the GCC—like Olive Grows, Re-Bottle, SunBox, and others—that are quietly laying the groundwork for a cleaner, greener, and smarter future.
These are not just companies—they’re movements. They represent the Gulf’s bold new direction. And the best part? Their journey is just beginning.
Quick Recap: Green Startups in the GCC You Should Know
- Olive Grows (Saudi Arabia) – Hydroponic farming
- The Surpluss (UAE) – Circular economy platform
- Re-Bottle (Bahrain) – Glass recycling & upcycling
- SunBox (Kuwait) – Solar energy kits
- Qatra Water Solutions (Oman) – Water recycling
- Eco Souk (Qatar) – Plastic-free lifestyle products
Green Startups in the GCC are solving real problems with innovative ideas. They deserve more attention—and support. Keep your eye on them, and join the movement toward a greener Gulf.
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Also read: 7 Emirati Investors Reshaping the UAE’s Business Landscape
