Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Global generative AI spending is set to reach $644 billion by 2025, driven by hardware integration, with 80% of spending focused on devices like servers and smartphones. Despite high failure rates in early projects, the growth reflects AI’s increasing role in business and consumer technology, impacting all IT spending markets.
GITEX Africa 2025, held in Marrakech from April 14–16, will showcase AI’s impact on Africa’s healthcare, connectivity, and economic inclusion. The event includes the AI Everything conference and the SDG11 Challenge, focusing on AI-driven solutions for sustainable cities and communities across the continent.
Omran Sharaf, UAE’s assistant foreign minister for advanced science and technology, warned at the AI, Security, and Ethics Summit in Geneva about the risks of AI falling into the wrong hands. He stressed the importance of implementing controls and global cooperation to prevent misuse by non-state actors and militants.
The “Shaping Egypt AI Horizon” forum highlighted Egypt’s National AI Strategy (2025-2030), emphasizing AI infrastructure, talent, and regulation. ITIDA and 500 Global discussed fostering AI startups and addressing skill shortages. The strategy aims to build AI capabilities and increase AI adoption across various sectors and the workforce.
Algeria has launched three new digital platforms—cloud computing, drone technology, and a startup incubator—aimed at driving innovation, research, and entrepreneurship. The cloud platform offers high-speed processing, while the incubator will support local startups. These initiatives are part of the country’s broader digital transformation strategy to boost job creation.
Pakistan and China are exploring opportunities to launch AI and data science training programs for Pakistani students at top Chinese institutions. The collaboration aims to accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation and strengthen ties with China in fostering technological growth and innovation in the ICT sector.
e& UAE and Microsoft have launched the AI for Business Skilling Programme, designed to equip SMBs with essential AI skills. The program offers specialized learning tracks for business leaders, professionals, and beginners, empowering them to integrate AI into operations and drive digital transformation in today’s competitive landscape.
Morocco is deepening its collaboration with the U.S. to advance its AI and digital transformation goals. The partnership aligns with Morocco’s “Digital Morocco 2030” initiative, leveraging AI to modernize public services and boost the country’s international competitiveness, with the aim to improve its UN Online Services Index ranking by 2030.
Egypt plans to increase its digital skills training, focusing on AI, data analytics, and embedded systems, as part of its effort to become a global ICT offshoring hub. The government aims to train 5,000 people annually, with an investment of EGP 4 billion per year, boosting digital exports and job creation.
Algeria aims for AI to contribute 7% of its GDP by 2027, with investments in AI, robotics, and cybersecurity startups. The government is enhancing digital infrastructure with 4G and fiber optic networks, aiming to boost economic productivity and position Algeria as a leader in AI and technological innovation.