Saudi Arabia’s Interior Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, inaugurated the General Directorate of Public Security building in Riyadh. He also opened the Innovation Center and the Indicators and Artificial Intelligence Center, launching new services on the Absher platform to enhance digital transformation in security operations.
Mastercard and Amazon Payment Services have signed a multi-year partnership to digitize payment acceptance across the Middle East and Africa. This collaboration will utilize Mastercard Gateway to enhance transaction security and speed, benefiting thousands of merchants and consumers across the region.
Bahrain Network (BNET) has launched initiatives to enhance job welfare and mental health, particularly for female employees. The measures include designated parking, a drop-off service, and a “Pink Room” for working mothers. These efforts aim to create a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Oman’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority has launched a new electronic licensing management system to streamline the application process for telecom services. Users can now submit and track applications online, enhancing cooperation among regulatory bodies.
The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce has reaffirmed its commitment to developing Pakistan’s IT and telecom sectors at the Tech Festival ITCN Asia. The event emphasized collaboration among government, private sector, and academic institutions, with forecasts suggesting IT exports may grow from $10 billion to $18 billion by 2028.
Arab Advisors Group has released a new series of reports analyzing the 5G market in the GCC, focusing on data-only plans and pricing strategies. The reports highlight trends from 2020 to 2024, aiding telecom operators in understanding competitive positioning and driving innovation in the region’s digital economy.
Zain Group has been awarded the Cloudera Data Impact Award for its Data Office’s innovative work in developing advanced data architectures. This recognition highlights Zain’s commitment to a data-driven strategy, fostering a culture of data literacy, and leveraging AI to enhance operational efficiency and business outcomes.
In 2024, the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields remains a critical issue, with women making up only 34% of the workforce. Initiatives like Hatch’s partnership with the Lankan Angel Network and the “She Loves Tech” competition aim to empower female entrepreneurs and bridge the gender gap in technology.
Microsoft has announced the establishment of an Engineering Development Center in Abu Dhabi, marking its first engineering hub in the Arab world. The center will focus on AI, cloud technologies, and cybersecurity, enhancing the UAE’s position as a tech innovation hub and attracting global talent.
Dell Technologies has partnered with Saudi-based Ejada to explore growth in AI and multi-cloud solutions through Dell’s Apex models. The collaboration aims to enhance research, product development, and market exploration, leveraging both organizations’ strengths to drive innovation and improve technological capabilities in Saudi Arabia.
