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| "A guide to Tunisia's tech ecosystem" |
Tunisia is fast becoming one of North Africa’s most exciting tech destinations. Known for its rich history, Mediterranean charm, and vibrant culture, Tunisia is also building a reputation as a hub for innovation, startups, and groundbreaking policies like the Startup Act. For the tech enthusiast eager to discover ecosystems beyond the usual hotspots, Tunisia offers an inspiring blend of ancient heritage and cutting-edge innovation.
Why Tunisia?
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High Talent Density: Tunisia produces the highest number of engineers per capita in Africa, creating a large pool of technical talent ready to build and innovate.
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Groundbreaking Policies: Tunisia was the first African country to implement a full-fledged Startup Act, offering tax breaks, government-paid founder salaries, and easier access to foreign currency.
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Proven Track Record: Startups like InstaDeep (acquired by BioNTech) and Expensya (acquired by Medius) have proven that Tunisian-born companies can scale globally and achieve major exits.
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Strong Ecosystem Support: With accelerators, VCs, and programs like Flat6Labs, AfricInvest, Smart Capital, Open Startup, and 216 Capital Ventures, founders have access to a strong backbone of support.
Key Ecosystem Hubs & Enablers
The Dot Hub
The Dot Hub is one of Tunisia’s most recognizable community and innovation hubs. Based in Tunis, it provides co-working spaces, training, and mentorship while also serving as a cultural hub for events and collaborations. It focuses on startups, developers, and creatives, and is known for nurturing early-stage founders through networking opportunities, workshops, and access to investors. Its collaborative environment has made it a central meeting point for local and international players visiting Tunisia’s ecosystem.
Flat6Labs Tunis
Flat6Labs is a regional accelerator with operations in Cairo, Abu Dhabi, and beyond, but its Tunisian branch is particularly impactful. Launched in partnership with BIAT Bank, Flat6Labs Tunis provides seed funding, intensive bootcamps, and hands-on mentorship. It has supported dozens of Tunisian startups, many of which have gone on to raise further investment or expand regionally. The accelerator is seen as a gateway for Tunisian startups to connect with MENA-wide investors and expertise.
Open Startup International (OST)
OST is dedicated to bridging ecosystems and connecting Tunisia with the rest of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Its programs focus on leadership, capacity building, and global exposure for entrepreneurs. For example, OST runs competitions and exchange programs where top Tunisian founders are flown to global hubs like New York or Paris to connect with investors and partners. Its mission is to ensure Tunisian startups are not building in isolation but plugged into global networks.
V3 Factory
V3 Factory is an ecosystem support organization based in Tunisia with a strong emphasis on investment readiness. It helps startups refine their business models, prepare for fundraising, and access a growing network of local and international investors. Beyond technical support, V3 Factory builds community among founders, fostering peer-to-peer learning and collaboration. It plays an important role in positioning Tunisian startups as “fundable” on the global stage.
Green4Youth
Green4Youth is a program dedicated to startups and SMEs in the green economy. Its focus is on supporting Small Growing Businesses (SGBs) with financial support, strategic training, and sustainability-focused capacity building. For Tunisian founders, Green4Youth is a lifeline for ventures tackling water scarcity, renewable energy, agriculture, and climate action. Unlike some programs that take equity, Green4Youth provides non-dilutive support — allowing young entrepreneurs to scale without losing ownership.
A Few Startups to Watch
InstaDeep
Founded in Tunis in 2014, InstaDeep specialized in advanced AI and machine learning solutions, including decision-making systems for logistics, biotech, and energy. It grew into a globally recognized company with offices in Europe and Africa, culminating in its acquisition by BioNTech in 2023 — one of the continent’s largest exits. InstaDeep is symbolic of Tunisia’s ability to produce globally competitive deep tech startups.
Expensya
Founded by Tunisian entrepreneurs, Expensya is a SaaS platform that automates expense management for businesses. It offers cloud-based solutions that simplify reporting and reimbursement, and was acquired by Medius in 2022. The startup’s success has reinforced Tunisia’s strength in producing high-quality SaaS products capable of competing internationally.
Bako Motors
A Tunisian electric vehicle manufacturer, Bako Motors is pioneering sustainable mobility solutions designed for African roads and conditions. The company produces electric cars locally, proving that deep tech manufacturing is possible in North Africa. During visits, founders often let guests test-drive their vehicles — a hands-on example of Tunisian ingenuity tackling climate and energy challenges.
WaterSec
WaterSec is tackling one of Tunisia’s most pressing issues: water scarcity. Using IoT and AI, its platform provides real-time monitoring of water consumption, helping households, businesses, and municipalities adopt more sustainable behaviors. Its vision is to improve water-use efficiency at scale and contribute to long-term water security in North Africa.
Croki
An edtech platform co-founded by student entrepreneurs, Croki connects learners with personalized tutors for academic support. It emphasizes flexibility, accessibility, and personalization, making it easier for students to succeed. Croki is not just an education platform but also a case study of how Tunisian students are turning their lived experiences into scalable businesses, even while still studying.
Speak Duo
Speak Duo is a speaking practice platform for language learners. It allows users to engage in quick, real conversations with people worldwide, using AI to provide matchmaking, corrections, and personalized learning feedback. Founded by John Jang, a Korean-American entrepreneur who transitioned from medicine and priesthood into tech, Speak Duo chose Tunisia as its base for its strong talent pool and supportive ecosystem.
Dabchy
Dabchy is Tunisia’s first online peer-to-peer fashion marketplace, focusing on second-hand clothes. It encourages sustainable shopping habits while creating a strong community-driven platform. Dubbed “the Vinted of North Africa,” Dabchy has grown rapidly, attracting both regional users and investors.
Kumulus Water
Kumulus Water develops atmospheric water generators that produce drinking water from humidity in the air. Its innovation addresses one of Tunisia’s most urgent challenges — water scarcity. The solution is compact, scalable, and highly relevant not only in Tunisia but across other water-stressed regions in Africa and beyond.
How to Get to Tunisia
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By Air: Major airlines including Tunisair, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Air France fly into Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN).
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From Africa: Direct connections exist from Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, and some West African capitals. From Sub-Saharan Africa, you may need to connect via Casablanca, Istanbul, or Paris.
Visa Information
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Visa-free access: Citizens of many African countries (including Algeria, Morocco, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and more) can enter Tunisia visa-free for up to 90 days.
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Visa on arrival: For some African countries, visas can be obtained on arrival, but it’s safer to confirm with the Tunisian consulate in your country.
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Schengen advantage: If you already hold a valid multi-entry Schengen visa, you may be able to use it for entry (depending on your nationality).
Always check with the Tunisian embassy or consulate before traveling, as policies vary.
Getting Around
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In Tunis: Taxis are cheap but negotiate fares. Bolt is also available.
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Between cities: Domestic flights (to Djerba, Tozeur), trains, or long-distance buses.
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For Sahara trips: Arrange a private driver or tour operator.
Where to Stay: Nice and Affordable Hotels
Hotel Royal ASBU Tunis
A well-located hotel in Tunis, offering comfortable rooms, helpful service, and good value. It’s a solid choice for visitors seeking convenience, clean amenities, and proximity to city centres and transport.
Hotel Carlton (Downtown Tunis)
A charming 3-star hotel in the heart of Tunis with modern amenities, close to cafés, shops, and the Medina. Known for comfort, convenience, and affordability.
Ibis Tunis
Located in the city center, Ibis offers clean, modern rooms at affordable rates, perfect for business travelers who want reliability and easy access to transport.
Majestic Hotel
A historic hotel with French colonial architecture, spacious rooms, and proximity to the Medina. Balances classic charm with reasonable prices.
Dar Ben Gacem
A boutique guesthouse in the Medina, beautifully restored with traditional Tunisian décor. Ideal if you want an authentic cultural stay at an accessible price point.
El Mouradi Hotel Africa
A popular mid-range hotel on Avenue Habib Bourguiba. Offers great views of the city and a mix of business-friendly facilities and tourist convenience.
Dar El Jeld Hotel & Spa
For travelers who want something special without breaking the bank, this boutique hotel offers luxury rooms in the Medina alongside spa services, while still being more affordable than international 5-star chains.
Coworking Spaces in Tunis
COSER
A modern coworking space in Tunis Lac 1. Offers private offices, dedicated workstations, meeting rooms, fibre-optic internet, and coffee/tea. Great for startups, freelancers, or remote workers looking for comfort and a supportive community.
Regus (Tunis locations)
A global coworking and office space provider. Offers hot-desking, private offices, meeting rooms, and virtual office services. A reliable option for those who want consistency and professional facilities.
Cobink
Located in downtown Tunis, Cobink provides a creative and friendly atmosphere. Designed for freelancers and entrepreneurs, it features event rooms, a rooftop terrace, work-cafés, and flexible passes by the hour, day, or month.
Brain Coworking
A design-oriented coworking space with ergonomic furniture, meeting and conference rooms, open spaces and private booths, fast internet, and plenty of natural light. A calm and professional environment for focused work.
WorkIn.Space
A platform that lists multiple coworking spaces in Tunis with flexible booking options, making it easy to compare prices and amenities before choosing.
Fun Places to Visit
Carthage
The ancient city of Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers stunning Roman ruins overlooking the Mediterranean. A must-see for history lovers.
Sidi Bou Said
The picturesque blue-and-white seaside town perched on cliffs. Perfect for coffee at Café des Délices with a breathtaking sea view.
Tunis Medina
The UNESCO-listed old city is full of winding souks, traditional houses, and centuries of history. Great for souvenirs and cultural immersion.
El Jem Amphitheater
One of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Think Colosseum, but without the overwhelming crowds.
Matmata
Famous for its underground cave dwellings and as a Star Wars filming location (Luke Skywalker’s home).
The Sahara Desert
Take a desert tour, ride camels, or camp under the stars in Douz or Tozeur.
Djerba Island
Beautiful beaches, unique architecture, and one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world.
Where to Eat: Restaurants in Tunis
Fine Dining & Contemporary Cuisine
Dar El Jeld (Tunis Medina)
Upscale dining in a restored traditional house. Known for refined Tunisian cuisine with a historic atmosphere.
Le Golfe (La Marsa)
Overlooking the sea, Le Golfe is popular for seafood and Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist.
The Breeze at Four Seasons Tunis
A luxurious dining experience offering international and Tunisian-inspired dishes in a stunning seaside setting.
Authentic Local Cuisine
El Ali (Tunis Medina)
Known for traditional couscous, tajines, and briks, served in a warm Tunisian setting.
Chez Slah (Downtown Tunis)
Locally famous for Tunisian seafood and hearty dishes, this is where locals go for authentic flavors.
Dar Zarrouk (Sidi Bou Said)
Combines stunning sea views with traditional Tunisian recipes — perfect for pairing sightseeing with a meal.
Street Food & Casual Eats
Café Mrabet (Medina)
A classic café serving mint tea and snacks in a centuries-old building.
Lablabi shops
Lablabi is a spicy chickpea soup served with bread, olive oil, and harissa — an inexpensive, filling local favorite.
Brik stalls in Tunis Medina
For a quick bite, try Tunisia’s famous brik à l’œuf (fried pastry with egg and tuna) from small stalls in the souk.
Conclusion
Tunisia is more than just a gateway to North Africa, it’s a country proving that talent, resilience, and bold ideas can thrive anywhere. From groundbreaking startups like InstaDeep, Expensya, and WaterSec to hubs like The Dot and Flat6Labs, the ecosystem is well connected, collaborative, and full of opportunities for founders, investors, and ecosystem enablers.
Beyond tech, Tunisia also offers a rich cultural journey from the ruins of Carthage to the sands of the Sahara, from seaside towns like Sidi Bou Said to the lively Medina of Tunis. Add to that warm hospitality, flavorful cuisine, and affordable stays, and you have a destination that blends innovation with unforgettable experiences.
For any tech enthusiast, Tunisia isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place to learn, connect, and be inspired.