Startup investment in the Middle East and North Africa region fell sharply in March, with total funding declining 76 percent month on month to $127.5 million across 28 deals, down from $530 million in February. The decline reflects broader economic uncertainty stemming from ongoing US trade tensions with global partners. The UAE retained its lead in regional startup funding, securing $104.4 million across 14 transactions. Fintech remained the dominant sector, attracting $82.5 million across 10 deals in March alone. No female-founded startups received funding in March -- a significant setback for gender equity in the region's entrepreneurial landscape.