Tunisia has launched a blockchain-based system to verify educational credentials, combat fake diplomas, and streamline the verification process. This move is part of a broader regional initiative to enhance academic integrity. The system’s success in Tunisia could inspire other nations to adopt similar solutions to address diploma fraud.
AIQ, a unit of Presight, has secured a $340 million contract with Adnoc to deploy its AI-powered ENERGYai solutions across Adnoc’s upstream operations. The three-year contract aims to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability by using advanced AI technologies, with full deployment expected by mid-2025.
Google Pay will officially launch in Pakistan on March 12th, marking a major step towards a cashless economy. The platform will integrate with local banks and fintechs, providing a fast, secure way for consumers and businesses to make payments, transfer money, and manage transactions from their smartphones.
Ooredoo has expanded its 5G network in Oman, focusing on improving customer experience, B2B solutions, and digital transformation. The company is investing in AI-driven customer service, sustainability, and fiber internet adoption, positioning itself as a key player in Oman’s digital future, with a strong emphasis on connectivity and growth.
Apple Pay is expanding in the UAE and Qatar by adding support for new card networks, including UAE’s Jaywan and Qatar’s Himyan. This will allow more customers in both countries to use Apple Pay for secure mobile transactions, enhancing the service’s reach and accessibility in the region.
stc has achieved 100% compliance with the GSMA’s signalling security guidelines, making it one of the few telecom operators globally to do so. In partnership with Enea, stc has implemented robust security measures to protect its network from data leaks, unauthorized tracking, and communication interception.
UAE and Saudi Arabia are moving forward with plans for 6G networks, with the UAE targeting a 2030 launch. However, telecom experts question the business case for 6G due to slowing data growth in MENA and the high costs of deploying 6G infrastructure compared to the ongoing expansion of 5G.
Ajras, a Saudi proptech company, has raised US$1.5 million in a pre-Series A funding round led by Veda Holding. The funding will support the expansion of its “Rent Now, Pay Later” program for commercial and industrial properties. The startup had previously raised US$28 million in a seed round.
Riyadh is set to lead data center growth in the Middle East, with a 37% annual growth rate expected through 2027. Driven by Saudi Arabia’s focus on digital transformation and AI initiatives, global tech companies like Microsoft and AWS are investing heavily, positioning the country as an AI powerhouse.
DigitalOcean has opened its new headquarters in Karachi, Pakistan, in collaboration with COLABS. The move supports DigitalOcean’s growth in the region, offering tailored workspaces and advanced tech infrastructure to foster innovation and collaboration within Pakistan’s growing tech ecosystem, benefiting startups, developers, and SMEs.
