In Q1 2024, 200 Emiratis were trained in app development under the ‘Create Apps in Dubai’ initiative by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. The initiative aims to train 1,000 Emiratis and triple Dubai’s app developers by 2025. The ‘App Olympics’ competition saw 1,100 participants in February.
NADEC has successfully implemented SAP Signavio, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to enhance service efficiency and expand into new markets. The initiative has transformed 51 business processes, resulting in significant improvements in operational efficiency and customer service, supporting NADEC’s strategic expansion and food security goals.
Dialog Axiata has completed the acquisition of Airtel Lanka through a share swap. Post-acquisition, Axiata holds 73.75% of Dialog, Bharti Airtel 10.355%, and the public 15.895%. Both brands will continue to serve customers while merging networks to enhance connectivity. The move aims to drive growth and innovation in Sri Lanka’s telecom sector.
Banglalink and Teletalk have initiated a national roaming field trial in Bangladesh, enabling their customers to access each other’s network coverage for the first time. This innovative collaboration aims to enhance mobile connectivity and promote network sharing between the operators, with a focus on seamless transition between networks in areas with coverage gaps. Once the field trial is completed, customers will enjoy expanded, seamless national coverage for all services. This initiative aligns with energy conservation and green infrastructure development and is already available in 22 countries worldwide.
Tunisia’s Ministry of Communication Technologies and INT are cracking down on unregistered SIM cards to combat cybercrime and fraud. Telecom operators must deactivate improperly registered SIM cards until valid ID verification is completed. This initiative aims to update subscriber data, curb unauthorized SIM sales, and address inflated mobile subscriber figures in the country.
Walaa Alhashimi, ICT Director of the Bahrain Chamber, was recognized for her contributions to technology at the 3rd World CIO 200 Summit. She received the award from Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa. The event celebrated leaders in AI innovation, highlighting her efforts in digital transformation and AI integration at the Bahrain Chamber.
The Committee on Public Finance has approved the Sri Lanka Telecommunications (Amendment) Bill, aiming to regulate satellite-based internet services and modernize industry regulations. The bill, developed with stakeholder input, introduces new licensing types, strengthens the TRC’s powers, and promotes competitive market practices for consumer benefits.
Orange Jordan and the Norwegian Refugee Council have launched a free three-month digital skills training program for Jordanian youth in Irbid. Part of the ‘Najahna – Our Success’ project, the program aims to enhance programming and digital manufacturing skills, empowering participants for the job market.
IBM is releasing its AI models as open-source software and helping Saudi Arabia train an Arabic AI system. The Granite models, designed for faster code completion, are customizable, and IBM’s Watsonx tool ensures smooth operation in data centers.
Zain Bahrain partnered with Manama Hub’s ‘Khibra Initiative’ to host the first “Meet the Leaders” Mentorship Event. The event provided young individuals with personalized mentorship from industry leaders, featuring 30 mentors from various sectors. Zain Bahrain aims to empower youth with essential career guidance and support.
