Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a new version of the Nusuk portal, offering over 100 additional services to streamline Hajj and Umrah planning. This digital advancement aims to enhance the pilgrimage experience, with over 18.5 million pilgrims served in 2024 alone.
Arcapita, in partnership with Parkway Venture Capital, is investing in a high-growth AI portfolio focused on robotics, quantum computing, and generative AI. The portfolio includes Figure AI and SandboxAQ, aiming to provide exposure to early-stage businesses shaping the future of AI technology, a market expected to grow significantly by 2030.
The Middle East is experiencing a significant surge in Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption, reshaping various industries. Government initiatives and investments are driving AI development, particularly in healthcare, where AI-powered solutions are revolutionizing patient care and diagnostics. Education is becoming more personalized with AI-driven tools, and automation is enhancing business efficiency and customer experiences. While challenges like ethics and regulation exist, opportunities for AI startups are abundant, with AI poised to transform the Middle East’s economy and society. The region’s AI journey is a global story of innovation and growth.
Oman has launched the National Program for AI and Advanced Digital Technologies, aiming to enhance the digital economy and align with Vision 2040. Key initiatives include an AI research center, a national data platform, and a Fourth Industrial Revolution center, with the goal of increasing AI’s contribution to GDP.
Mauritania collaborates with Oman to accelerate digital transformation efforts, focusing on cybersecurity and service modernization, as part of their bilateral memorandum of understanding. This partnership aligns with Mauritania’s strategic goals to enhance its digital landscape by leveraging Oman’s advancements.
Algeria’s advancements in ICT and commitment to digital inclusion have been praised by the ITU. Key investments and partnerships aim to expand connectivity, improve access, and foster regional digital development.
Bangladesh has advanced 11 spots to lead the least developed countries in the 2024 UN E-Government Development Index, ranking 100th globally. This achievement reflects significant improvements in online services and telecommunications infrastructure.
Researchers at American University of Sharjah (AUS) have developed luminescent sensors that detect trace amounts of phosphorus-based toxic compounds. These sensors, patented and funded by AUS, can detect and neutralize chemical warfare agents and pesticides in real-time, offering significant applications in defense, environmental monitoring, and public safety.
The ‘Digital Sharjah’ platform, launched in 2021 by the Sharjah Digital Department, has processed over 952,000 transactions and attracted more than 95,000 users. It offers over 60 digital services and has seen significant growth in user engagement and downloads, demonstrating its impact on digital transformation in Sharjah.
The event will highlight SAP’s AI capabilities, including its generative AI copilot Joule, and demonstrate how AI can drive business innovation.
