Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Qatar’s Darkocean has launched NAVBathy, the world’s first Rapid Satellite-Derived Bathymetry engine delivering coastal depth maps in seconds using multi-source satellite imagery and proprietary AI. The platform offers instant bathymetric intelligence, API access, and mobile-friendly tools, attracting global investor interest and positioning Qatar as a leader in next-gen marine geospatial technology.
Morocco has launched a new investment support mechanism to strengthen funding for startups under the Digital Morocco 2030 strategy. Backed by key national institutions, the initiative aims to de-risk investments, attract capital, and accelerate the country’s innovation ecosystem while aligning with the vision of King Mohammed VI for digital sovereignty and technological leadership.
Algeria Startup Challenge 2025 concluded with nine new agreements between start-ups and major operators, reinforcing its role as a national open-innovation platform. Five sector winners were recognized, ranging from digital tourism to AI healthcare and IoT hygiene systems. The event attracted hundreds of start-ups nationwide and highlighted growing private-sector support for innovation.
IBM and Web Summit have unveiled a global Sports Tech Startup Challenge to drive AI-led innovation in sports, featuring regional competitions in Qatar, Vancouver, and Rio, leading to a global finale at Web Summit Lisbon 2026.
Dubai’s Chamber of Digital Economy facilitated the growth of 582 digital startups in the first nine months of 2025, led by AI ventures. Backed by the “Business in Dubai” platform and global roadshows across 17 cities, the chamber is strengthening Dubai’s position as a global innovation hub aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
Abu Dhabi’s Hub71 has expanded its Incentive Program to offer startups up to AED 750,000 in funding and services, reinforcing its status as a global innovation hub. Hosting 300 startups that raised AED 9 billion, Hub71 drives growth in AI, climate tech, and life sciences through strategic international collaborations.
GoRide Transfers, an Agadir-based startup, was honored by Technopark Morocco’s Tiwizi program for its AI-powered airport transfer platform now operating in 20 countries.
Algeria has launched a USD 1 billion innovation fund to boost African startups and promote regional digital and economic integration, extending its national startup success to a continental scale.
Zain Group has selected 13 tech startups from six regional markets to join the Global Acceleration Program in Silicon Valley. The initiative, part of the Zain Great Idea accelerator, offers mentorship, funding opportunities, and global exposure to help scale innovative startups in AI, fintech, edtech, and sustainability.
Algeria has launched a $1 billion continental fund to finance African startups and innovators, focusing on technology, education, health, and renewable energy. The initiative seeks to boost intra-African collaboration, create jobs, and strengthen the continent’s innovation ecosystem amid declining foreign investment.