Egypt’s Cairo has been ranked 95th in the 2024 Global Innovation Index’s top 100 science and technology clusters, making it the only North African city on the list. This recognition highlights Cairo’s patent activity, scientific publications, and collaboration with global inventors, reflecting Egypt’s ongoing efforts in innovation and technology development.
stc Bahrain has launched the “Scan & Go SIM,” the nation’s first self-activation service utilizing AI facial recognition. This innovative SIM allows customers to activate it instantly via the My stc BH app, offering a seamless, on-the-go experience without visiting a branch. The service is available with flexible prepaid and postpaid plans.
The Saudi Astronomy Team won three bronze medals at the IOAA 2024 in Brazil, showcasing their skills in astronomy and astrophysics. Prepared through extensive training camps by CST and Mawhiba, the students excelled in a competitive field with participants from 53 countries, marking a significant achievement for Saudi Arabia in the Space sector.
Oman has launched a new Social Protection Fund (SPF) e-portal to enhance electronic governance. Employers can now verify expatriate worker data, update wages, and manage employee information efficiently. This initiative aligns with Oman’s digital transformation strategy, aiming to streamline operations and ensure accurate data management across government and private sectors.
Wasoko and MaxAB, two of Africa’s top B2B e-commerce companies, have completed the continent’s largest tech merger, forming a pan-African digital retail platform. The merger combines their expertise across multiple countries, creating a multi-vertical ecosystem serving Africa’s $600 billion informal retail sector, with extensive offerings in e-commerce, fintech, and AI-driven services.
Egypt’s Ministries of Communications and Information Technology and Culture have signed an agreement to digitize over 11,300 National Library books for the “Egypt Digital Heritage” platform. This initiative aims to enhance Egypt’s digital cultural content and expand access to the nation’s rich heritage through modern technology.
Kuwait’s CITRA is preparing for the rollout of the 5G Advanced network by introducing new frequencies and phasing out 3G services by June 2025. The upgrade will enhance digital services, support modern applications like IoT and AI, and expand mobile network capacity, positioning Kuwait as a leader in advanced technology adoption.
Jordan’s Alzheimer’s Patients’ Aid Society, under HRH Princess Muna Al Hussein’s patronage, launched “Eye Locate,” a pioneering iris recognition technology to help locate and reunite dementia patients who wander from home. Developed with Public Security, IrisGuard, and NatHealth, this initiative enhances public safety and offers hope to affected families.
Samsung Electronics plans to establish Egypt as a regional hub for electronics production and exports, targeting markets in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. The company’s Beni Suef factory already exports 85% of its television production to 55 countries, creating 5,000 job opportunities and producing 6 million units annually.
Abu Dhabi’s Marlan Space has partnered with Loft Orbital to launch Orbitworks, the Middle East’s first private space infrastructure company. Orbitworks will produce LEO satellite constellations, with plans to launch the first platform by 2026, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s space industry.
