Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
In 2023, Oman managed over 460 cybersecurity incidents and resolved 241 cybercrime cases. The country processed over 30 million electronic transactions and deployed 4,566 5G stations. Investments in AI and space technology reached RO31.2 million and US$155 million, respectively, showcasing Oman’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation.
Trend Micro blocked over eight million cyber threats in Bahrain in 2023, including 1.9 million email threats and 1.1 million malicious URLs. Globally, they thwarted 161 billion threats, a 10% increase year-on-year, highlighting the need for proactive cybersecurity measures in an evolving threat landscape.
King Abdulaziz University awarded Naseej for Technology a SAR 16.18 million contract for academic system upgrades and support. Additionally, the company secured a SAR 17.24 million deal with the Ministry of Commerce. Despite a slight revenue increase, Naseej reported a 39.55% drop in net profit for 2023.
Libya’s Telecommunications Holding Company and Italian Post have agreed to enhance Libyan postal services, focusing on postal, logistical, and digital financial services, and training personnel. An executive cooperation agreement will establish joint working teams for initiatives and projects.
Mal Bazaar, an Egyptian insurtech startup, has acquired a licensed insurance brokerage and launched “My Policy,” a digital platform for corporate insurance management. With over 60,000 clients, the company aims to revolutionize the insurance industry through digital transformation and enhance customer experience.
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.