Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Moroccan startup Forcelog, founded by Anas Bouziane, offers e-commerce merchants and business professionals a platform for delivering orders and packages. Based in Casablanca, Forcelog provides services like free pickup, storage, product preparation, and delivery across 240 Moroccan destinations, with real-time tracking and prices starting at 18 Moroccan dirhams.
Microsoft, in partnership with MCIT, has expanded its datacentre region in Qatar, enhancing AI capabilities for businesses. This initiative supports Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030, enabling public and private sectors to leverage advanced AI technologies, optimize operations, and drive sustainable growth.
IFS has announced the general availability of its latest IFS Cloud release, featuring AI-powered functionalities to enhance operational effectiveness and profitability. Key highlights include the IFS.ai Copilot, Analytics as a Service, and enhanced sustainability tools, aimed at improving decision-making, optimizing resource utilization, and driving business success.
OneClickDrive, the leading car rental marketplace in Dubai, expands its operations to Morocco, marking its first venture into Africa. This move broadens its market reach, leveraging Morocco’s strategic location and growing demand for car rentals, particularly among tourists. The company plans further expansion into GCC and African regions.
HQ by Hope, Bahrain’s largest co-working space, has partnered with Zain Bahrain to support the growth of Bahrain’s entrepreneurial community. This collaboration aims to empower startups and SMEs through flexible workspaces, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive business support, fostering innovation and creating a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem in Bahrain.
Egypt is positioning itself as a smartphone manufacturing hub, partnering with Samsung, Oppo, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Nokia. The government aims to attract Apple, boosting local production and exports. These partnerships are creating job opportunities and leveraging Egypt’s free trade agreements, aligning with the country’s goal to increase exports by 2030.
Saudi Arabia’s SAMI Advanced Electronics Co. and the National Unified Procurement Co. (NUPCO) have partnered to enhance the Kingdom’s healthcare system using digital technologies. The agreement will improve medication tracking, IT infrastructure, and local manufacturing of medical devices, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals for advanced healthcare services.
Oman’s e-commerce market reached $2.2 billion in 2023, led by electronics and media. The sector’s growth highlights its role in the global economy. The World Trade Organization expects the market to grow by 39% globally and reach $3.327 billion in Oman by 2027, driven by increased internet and smartphone adoption.
Tunisia and Italy signed an MoU to enhance digital technology and industrial cooperation. The agreement includes establishing national focal points and a joint team to facilitate technology transfer, investment, and collaboration in AI projects. Both countries aim to boost economic ties and support Tunisia’s digital transition.
A PwC Middle East report highlights the crucial role of emerging digital technologies, like Generative AI, in achieving transformative growth in Saudi Arabia. Organizations face challenges such as resource availability and resistance to change. Investing in robust digital infrastructure and promoting innovation are recommended for sustainable success.