The Qatar Digital Business Award 2024 recognized outstanding digital innovation and transformation across various sectors. With 14 award categories, this year’s winners were celebrated for their contributions to digital advancements, including AI, cybersecurity, and smart solutions. The awards reflect Qatar’s commitment to building a competitive digital economy aligned with Vision 2030.
Orange Jordan has inaugurated the Orange Innovation Lab at Mutah University, enhancing its digital program network across the Kingdom. This initiative aims to empower youth by bridging academic knowledge with market demands, offering students the tools and resources to develop entrepreneurial ideas and digital skills, fostering innovation and career growth.
Iraq has launched its first locally-produced Android smartphone in Erbil, marking a major stride towards technological independence. This milestone enhances Iraq’s capacity for high-tech manufacturing and supports its goal of becoming a regional leader in technology.
Zong 4G collaborates with Knowledge Platform to launch the Digital Scholars program, aiming to revolutionize Pakistan’s educational landscape. This initiative targets about 3000 students across 60 schools, focusing on marginalized areas along the CPEC belt. By providing digital learning modules in core subjects, the partnership seeks to bridge the rural-urban education gap, empowering Pakistani youth with equal learning opportunities.
The UAE’s launch of the Foresight-1 SAR satellite marks a major step in its global space leadership. Bayanat and Yahsat’s collaboration on this project strengthens the UAE’s space capabilities, enhances geospatial solutions, and supports the National Space Strategy 2030. The upcoming merger will establish “Space42” as a key player in the global space sector.
Gitex Global 2024 has spotlighted 5G technology, showcasing its potential to transform industries. With predictions of 1.4 billion devices connected by 2025, the event featured influential speakers and exhibitors, including e&, Huawei, and Nokia, demonstrating cutting-edge solutions that emphasize the role of 5G in innovation and digital transformation.
The UAE’s new Jaywan payment platform, backed by Al Etihad Payments, is set for a full rollout in Q4-2024, offering lower-cost debit and prepaid card options. Supported by banks, e& UAE, and du, Jaywan aims to provide significant savings and tailored rewards for UAE consumers, enhancing both online and in-store payment experiences.
Ariika, an Egyptian home furnishing e-commerce startup, has raised $3 million in Series A extension funding, led by Beltone Venture Capital and Citadel International Holdings. The new capital will fuel its expansion in Saudi Arabia and Iraq, with Ariika poised for significant growth in the MENA home décor market.
du has launched educational initiatives, including a Robotics Workshop and the “Skillpreneurship” program, to enhance technological skills and innovation among the youth in the UAE. These programs, organized by the du Youth Council, aim to empower young people through hands-on learning and entrepreneurial opportunities, aligning with du’s commitment to digital transformation and youth empowerment.
ONIC, a digital telco brand launched in 2023, has quickly revolutionized Pakistan’s telecom industry with innovative solutions and exceptional customer service. The brand’s rapid growth, digital-first approach, and strategic partnerships have set new standards in connectivity, earning ONIC prestigious awards and establishing it as a leader in the country’s digital transformation.
