Qualcomm and Aramco Digital have unveiled the world’s first AI-enabled industrial 5G smartphone at LEAP 2025. Powered by Qualcomm’s QCM8550 and QCM6490 processors, the device aims to enhance connectivity for 5G IoT, edge computing, and industrial applications, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and driving global industrial transformation.
Vodafone IoT has partnered with Saudi telecom operator Mobily to bring its IoT connectivity services to Saudi Arabia. This collaboration enables Vodafone’s customers to use Mobily’s Narrowband IoT network, covering 99% of the country, offering enterprise and government solutions and further expanding Vodafone’s IoT reach in the Middle East.
Maqsam has launched the region’s first AI-powered phone bot capable of handling customer service calls in Arabic and English, including various dialects. The bot provides seamless, 24/7 support, improving customer experience across the MENA region while reducing operational costs and assisting human agents.
Tencent Cloud has launched its first Middle East Cloud Region in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in the region’s digital transformation. The new availability zones will offer advanced AI services and support various industries, including gaming, e-commerce, and finance, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure.
N3XT Sports has released its Digital Transformation Regional Market Report 2025 | Gulf, highlighting key insights into the digital consumption of sports in the region. Key findings show high mobile engagement, especially in Saudi Arabia’s football fans, and opportunities for growth in data-driven fan engagement and digital strategies for sports clubs.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to enhance digital investment and technology collaborations, focusing on AI, cloud computing, and fintech. The partnership will support Pakistani startups and SMEs, simplify market entry, and promote joint research initiatives. Shaza Fatima Khawaja emphasized ethical AI and digital inclusivity during the discussions.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Pakistan’s Minister of IT and Telecom, emphasized the need for ethical AI, data privacy, and global cooperation at Leap 2025 in Riyadh. She discussed Pakistan’s commitment to ethical AI governance, highlighted the importance of bridging the digital divide, and presented the “Digital Nation Pakistan Bill, 2024.”
A preparatory conference for COMEX Oman 2025 will be held in Cairo on February 18, offering Egyptian companies the chance to explore Oman’s growing ICT market. The event will focus on investment opportunities in e-government, fintech, AI, and digital infrastructure, highlighting Oman’s technological achievements and strategic growth.
Oman signed nine cooperation agreements worth over $10 million at LEAP 2025 in Riyadh, marking significant international partnerships for its tech startups. Agreements include collaborations in AI, software development, semiconductors, and electronics with Saudi firms, highlighting Oman’s growing tech influence in the region and global markets.
ToumAI, an AI-powered SaaS startup, secured €1 million in pre-seed funding to expand globally and enhance its personalized CX solutions. With a unique Compound AI architecture, the company focuses on multilingual and emotional complexities in customer relations. ToumAI aims to scale across Africa and beyond, prioritizing sustainability.
