Egyptian startup Simplex, which specialises in computer numerical control (CNC) machine manufacturing, has raised US$13 million to build a huge new CNC factory in Saudi Arabia.
Computer numerical control (CNC) is a manufacturing method that automates the control, movement and precision of machine tools through the use of preprogrammed computer software, which is embedded inside the tools.
A graduate of the Flat6Labs accelerator programme, Simplex specialises in manufacturing CNC machines, and provides advanced technological solutions that meet the needs of customers in various industrial sectors. It has successfully built a strong reputation in regional and global markets, with Simplex machines being the preferred choice for customers in more than 50 sectors across 21 countries worldwide.
It is now expanding further after raising US$13 million to open a factory on a 20,000 square metre site in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, which will be dedicated to producing advanced CNC machines. This comes after Simplex signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Saudi Arabia’s National Industrial Development Centre.
“We are grateful for the significant support provided by the Saudi National Industrial Development Centre, which reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing the industrial sector and localising advanced technology. This factory represents a major step towards realizing our vision of expanding in regional and global markets and increasing our exports of CNC machines,” said Ahmed Shaaban, chairman of Simplex.
“Although we have not yet finalised the target production capacity, we plan to start operating the factory in the first quarter of 2026. This project reflects our commitment to contributing to the development of the Saudi industrial sector, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”
Mohamed Mansour, co-founder and chief commercial officer at Simplex, said the opening of the new factory in Riyadh would be a significant milestone in the company’s expansion journey.
“We see Saudi Arabia as a promising market and a strategic hub for exporting our products to the region and the world. The new factory will enable us to meet the growing demand for CNC machines and enhance our presence in international markets,” he said.
“Our vision is to become a key player in the global CNC machine manufacturing industry. This factory is a significant step towards achieving that vision. We are working on developing innovative products that meet the needs of customers in various industrial sectors, and we hope that this factory will contribute to enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a regional industrial center and increasing its exports of advanced technological products.”
