Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
UNITAR’s regional workshop in Rabat united aviation professionals to advance airport modernization using AI, cybersecurity, and sustainable technologies, supporting Morocco’s role in global aviation ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The training strengthens capacities across Africa and beyond, fostering collaboration and innovation for future-ready airports.
Morocco’s startup funding surged to nearly $95 million in 2024, driven by a few high-value deals and growing interest in TravelTech and FinTech. However, early-stage dominance, limited exits, and a funding gap risk stalling growth. Strategic support in late-stage funding, M&A, and emerging tech is essential to unlock Morocco’s next phase of innovation-led economic expansion.
In Groupe has become Africa’s second leading provider in the smart identity sector through its partnership with IDEMIA, offering advanced biometric and identity management solutions. Together, they help African countries improve security, digital identity infrastructure, and public service delivery by tackling challenges such as identity fraud and lack of comprehensive civil registries. This progress highlights the growing role of secure digital identities in Africa’s socio-economic development.
Jahez Application and Kuwait Innovation Center have launched Kuwait’s first Food Innovation Hackathon, inviting youth and creative thinkers to develop AI-driven solutions for food delivery challenges. The multi-phase program includes workshops, mentorship, and cash prizes, supporting Kuwait’s Vision 2035 goals by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the food tech sector.
Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior highlights the rising threat of sophisticated cyber scams involving fake messages, fraudulent payment links, and fake online stores. With thousands of cases reported annually and significant funds protected, the ministry stresses public vigilance, legal enforcement, and technological collaboration to combat cybercrime and protect digital security.
Orange Jordan sponsored ICIT 2025, highlighting its role in advancing Jordan’s digital economy through youth empowerment and innovation. The conference fostered dialogue on emerging technologies, while Orange Jordan showcased initiatives like the Orange Digital Center and hackathons to prepare youth for the future of work. This engagement supports national goals for a tech-driven, inclusive society.
Jumia has opened its largest integrated warehouse in Egypt to enhance logistics and distribution across underserved regions and support pan-African e-commerce growth. The facility is expected to create thousands of jobs and bolster the country’s digital economy, reflecting Jumia’s strategic commitment to Egypt as a key tech and operations hub. This move aligns with Jumia’s mission to increase access and affordability across Africa’s digital markets.
Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing delivery startup Ninja has secured $250 million in funding led by Riyad Capital, reaching a $1.5 billion valuation and becoming the Kingdom’s newest tech unicorn. The funding highlights Saudi Arabia’s expanding venture capital ecosystem and startup scene, supporting the government’s efforts to diversify the economy. Ninja plans an IPO by 2027 and operates in multiple Gulf countries, reflecting regional growth in tech-driven logistics services.
General Assembly Bahrain has renewed its partnership with Diwan Hub, continuing a strong collaboration to support Bahrain’s tech ecosystem through education, community events, and workforce development. This partnership enables access to valuable training and networking opportunities, contributing to Bahrain’s digital economy and innovation ambitions.
Standard Chartered Bahrain, alongside Bahrain FinTech Bay, has selected ten female-led startups to join the Futuremakers Women in Tech Bahrain programme’s sixth cohort. The initiative offers expert training, mentorship, and networking over eight weeks, aiming to accelerate women entrepreneurs in diverse tech sectors and foster a more inclusive innovation ecosystem aligned with Bahrain’s economic development goals.