Abu Dhabi’s Marlan Space has partnered with Loft Orbital to launch Orbitworks, the Middle East’s first private space infrastructure company. Orbitworks will produce LEO satellite constellations, with plans to launch the first platform by 2026, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s space industry.
e& UAE achieved TM Forum’s Platinum Open API certification, the first in the MENA region to do so for 20 unique APIs. This milestone enhances connectivity, interoperability, and system portability. e& UAE’s Developer Portal offers free access to standardized APIs, fostering innovation. This certification underscores e& UAE’s commitment to digital transformation and technological excellence.
Smartphone shipments in the Middle East (excluding Turkey) grew by 20% in Q2 2024, reaching 11.5 million units. Samsung led with a 28% market share, followed by Xiaomi with 20%, and TRANSSION with 16%. The region saw strong growth in key markets, with significant contributions from affordable models and strategic pricing.
Cybersecurity threats in the UAE surged in 2024, with malware detections up by 65.3%. Acronis is addressing these concerns through partnerships, AI-driven solutions, and its new Cyber Cloud Data Centre in Abu Dhabi, aiming to bolster defenses against emerging threats like ransomware and IoT vulnerabilities.
Jordan experienced a 64% increase in 5G mobile technology subscriptions in Q2 2024, rising to 51,491 from 31,334 in Q1. Fixed broadband subscriptions reached 793,000, while data consumption through fixed services grew to approximately 1.289 billion gigabytes, reflecting a positive trend in digital connectivity across the country.
Huawei has signed an MoU with the Emirates Esports Federation (EESF) to collaborate on advancing esports and mobile gaming in the UAE. The agreement will focus on fostering innovation, supporting local talent, and creating new opportunities for gamers and developers, leveraging Huawei’s technology and EESF’s leadership in esports.
This collaboration aims to advance digital transformation in auditing, enhance data protection, and improve cybersecurity.
Orange Jordan is enhancing its 5G coverage while promoting the “Subscribe & Win with 5G” campaign, allowing subscribers to win prizes like a 2024 BYD ATTO 3 electric car and PlayStation 5 consoles. The campaign aims to encourage the adoption of innovative 5G services across the kingdom.
Morocco’s conference on trade digitalisation, supported by EBRD and ICC, focuses on reducing costs and increasing transparency. Key discussions include legal frameworks, international initiatives, and the importance of digital infrastructure. The event aims to align Morocco’s trade procedures with global standards, benefiting its economy and integration into the global market.
TSMC and Samsung Electronics are discussing potential semiconductor projects in the UAE, possibly exceeding $100 billion. These early-stage talks aim to expand global chip production, with funding potentially from Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala.
