CloudKitchens, led by former Uber CEO Travis Kalanick, is preparing for an IPO in the UAE or Saudi Arabia. With a $400 million investment from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the company aims to capitalize on the Middle East’s growing food delivery market, signaling strong investor interest in tech-driven ventures.
Infobip has appointed Mirza Bukva as the Director of Operator Partnerships for the EMEA region. With nearly a decade of experience at the company, Mirza will lead telecom partnership strategies, focusing on driving growth, aligning with emerging trends like 5G, and strengthening Infobip’s position in the competitive EMEA market.
Rivada Space Networks has appointed Mustafa Afifi as Sales Director for the Middle East, focusing on sectors like telecom and satellite operations. The company’s Outernet, a low-latency satellite network, aims to revolutionize global connectivity. Rivada’s secure, high-bandwidth solutions are poised to meet the growing demands of enterprise and government clients.
Paytm’s parent company, PCTL, has launched Paytm Arab Payments in the UAE as part of its global expansion. A Paytm unit has approved an AED 8 million investment to acquire shares in the new entity, marking a strategic move to strengthen Paytm’s presence in the Middle East.
The UAE is enhancing its cloud seeding program with AI and space technology to address water security. The use of satellite imagery, AI-powered analytics, and real-time modeling has transformed cloud seeding from a basic practice to a precise, data-driven operation, optimizing weather modification efforts and boosting water resource management.
MedIQ has raised $6 million in Series A funding, led by Rasmal Ventures and Joa Capital, to accelerate its expansion in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the GCC. The digital health startup is building an AI-powered hybrid healthcare ecosystem to modernize healthcare delivery and align with Vision 2030’s transformation goals.
Banglalink has introduced special Hajj Roaming Packs, allowing Bangladeshi pilgrims to use their mobile balance in Taka for international roaming in Saudi Arabia. The partnership with Saudi networks STC, Zain, and Etisalat ensures reliable connectivity. The packages offer various data and talk time options for hassle-free service during Hajj.
The “Anime in the Digital Space” session at the Digital Communication Conference highlighted the transformation of Japanese anime, focusing on its shift from traditional media to digital platforms. Streaming services like Netflix and Crunchyroll have played a pivotal role, while Saudi Arabia’s growing interest in anime supports cultural production and education initiatives.
The Saudi Esports Federation has partnered with PUBG Mobile to create more opportunities for players in Saudi Arabia. The winner of the PUBG Mobile National Championship will qualify for the $3 million PUBG Mobile World Cup. The collaboration also integrates the Saudi eLeague into the national championship, enhancing esports development.
Renewables First and New Energy Nexus have launched Climate Innovation Pakistan (CLIP), a national platform aimed at accelerating homegrown climate tech solutions. The initiative includes a climate tech incubator and the New Energy Academy to upskill Pakistan’s solar workforce, addressing the country’s climate vulnerability through innovation and collaboration.
