Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
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.
Beyon Solutions acquired Link Development, expanding its digital transformation services. This move enhances Beyon’s offerings and reach, creating a major regional hub. The acquisition, pending regulatory approval, is the eighth exit for investment firm A15.
Google Cloud’s Doha Summit celebrated a year of growth and AI innovation in Qatar, with over 1,000 attendees highlighting the impact of Google Cloud’s services. Discussions focused on AI advancements, digital transformation, and future potential, emphasizing the region’s growing digital landscape.
Aveva has opened a new office in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, to enhance local service and support digital transformation in line with Vision 2030. The office will provide sales, services, project management, and technical support, and aims to leverage AI, ML, and Data Management to promote industrial sustainability.
The UAE’s Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) launched Transform 4.0, an initiative under Operation 300bn to fast-track digital transformation in manufacturing. The programme aims to support 100 manufacturers in adopting Industry 4.0 technologies, enhance sustainability, and position UAE-based manufacturers as global leaders in digital transformation.