Oman has risen to 50th place in the 2024 Network Readiness Index, climbing four positions. The country is recognized for its significant improvements in digital infrastructure, ranking first globally in mobile network coverage and making strides in government investment in emerging technologies, virtual social networks, and gender inclusivity in internet use.
Nepal’s Communication Minister, Prithvi Subba Gurung, announced plans to modernize state-owned media, ensuring wider access and relevance in the digital age. Radio Nepal and NTV will be made available to all Nepalis, with a focus on inclusivity. Restructuring of state media and the regulation of social media are also underway.
Blood Strike MENA has launched with full Arabic support, expanding to over 20 countries in the region. Published by Steller Gate Games, the game offers various modes, unique strikers, and exciting battle scenarios. The move follows NetEase’s strategy to tailor games for local markets, though no official comment has been made.
Morocco is set to legalize cryptocurrencies, reversing its 2017 ban, and exploring a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), the e-dirham. This move supports financial inclusion and digital transformation, with the goal of enhancing public sector efficiency. The country aligns with global trends in blockchain technology and digital assets.
GE Vernova’s Kuwait Technology Center has signed MOUs with two leading Kuwaiti universities to foster digital skills and support Kuwait Vision 2035. The collaboration includes workshops, internships, guest lectures, and hands-on learning, aiming to bridge the gap between academia and industry, strengthening the country’s energy sector and workforce.
Jordan has allocated JD31.7 million to the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship in the 2025 draft budget, aiming to complete the digitalisation of all government services by the end of next year. Despite challenges like skilled labor emigration, the move is set to enhance transparency and attract foreign investment.
Samsung has enhanced its Mobile Security Rewards Program by increasing the maximum reward to $1 million for eligible security vulnerability reports. The program, which encourages collaboration with the external security community, supports Samsung’s commitment to user safety, offering transparent criteria and extending coverage to its mobile devices and services.
Orange Jordan showcased innovations and supported entrepreneurs at the MENA ICT Forum 2024, highlighting projects from the Orange Digital Centers. Key highlights included the “MARS-JO Rover,” a virtual hospital project, and startup initiatives like ARFL and SAVERBOT. The forum emphasized technological synergy and future ICT developments in the MENA region.
Diriyah Art Futures has opened its doors in Riyadh with the inaugural exhibition, “Art Must Be Artificial: Perspectives of AI in the Visual Arts,” showcasing over 30 international and regional artists. The exhibition explores the evolution of computer art, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the global new media art scene.
Geidea is expanding its innovative SoftPos service to Egypt after successful rollouts in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. This technology enables merchants to accept payments directly via smartphones, eliminating the need for traditional POS devices. Geidea’s SoftPos is part of their broader strategy to drive digital transformation in the region.
