The 14th annual IDC Saudi Arabia CIO Summit, hosted by e& enterprise, will explore the future of IT in an AI-driven world. This event in Riyadh will feature industry thought leaders, discussions on AI, digital transformation, and the launch of the inaugural CIO50 Awards.
Saudi Arabia led the GCC digital entertainment sector in 2022, securing 58% of the region’s revenues, with $2.1 billion. The kingdom’s video game market grew significantly, reaching $1.75 billion, driven by mobile gaming. Saudi Arabia is also advancing its digital transformation, hosting major events like the 2024 Esports World Cup.
Jazz and Mobilink Microfinance Bank have partnered to advance financial inclusion and women’s empowerment in Pakistan. The initiative provides female entrepreneurs with smartphones, free data, and digital tools, aiming to bridge the digital divide and promote financial independence across the country.
Saudi Arabia’s point-of-sale transactions surged 20.4% in the last week of August, with telecommunications leading the growth at 42%. Total transactions amounted to $3.7 billion. The education sector saw a 38.6% decline, while food and beverages spending rose by 40.8%.
Oman’s telecommunications sector saw RO221.9 million in investments during 2023, with significant growth in 5G infrastructure and fiber optic networks. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority also expanded postal services and created over 1,600 new jobs. Key achievements include multiple digital excellence awards and initiatives to engage the public through consultations.
Morocco has launched a digital training program aimed at equipping 15,000 young people with digital skills by 2026. This initiative, part of the “JobinTech” program, focuses on socio-economic development in rural areas and offers free courses in software development and data analysis.
Egypt’s digital strategy, aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, focuses on expanding digital infrastructure and accessibility. At the Indonesia-Africa Forum, Egypt shared its digital transformation experience, aiming to enhance bilateral cooperation with Indonesia in communications and IT.
EDOTCO Bangladesh, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Air Force, is providing crucial relief to flood-affected communities in the Feni, Noakhali, and Cumilla Districts. As part of its CSR initiative, EDOTCO is delivering food, medicine, and supplies to 2,500 people while ensuring mobile connectivity in impacted areas.
Dubai-based fintech startup Ziina has raised $22 million in a Series A funding round to accelerate its growth and expand product offerings. The company, known for its innovative payment solutions, plans to use the funds to develop new features and explore market expansion in the UAE and beyond.
IFS will showcase its AI-powered cloud and asset management solutions at the World Utilities Congress 2023 in Abu Dhabi. Highlighting innovation and operational efficiency, IFS aims to empower utility companies to optimize performance and address sector challenges, supporting their journey toward net-zero targets.
