Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Huawei hosted the Bahrain leg of the ME&CA Commercial Roadshow, showcasing ICT solutions for key sectors. The event emphasized Bahrain’s digital transformation and Vision 2030 goals. Highlights included Huawei’s new eKit platform for SMEs, the Commercial Market Growth Incentive Program, and partnerships with stc Bahrain to develop 5.5G networks and ICT training programs.
EFG Hermes ONE, the flagship trading app from EFG Hermes, has launched its revamped platform with a new brand identity and advanced features. The app offers a user-friendly experience, pioneering e-KYC digital onboarding, diverse trading options, and comprehensive portfolio management tools. It aims to make investing accessible and seamless for users in Egypt, Kuwait, and the UAE.
Zain Bahrain has partnered with the British Council to enhance employee skills through innovative assessment and training solutions. This collaboration aims to improve English proficiency and soft skills, aligning with Zain Bahrain’s commitment to continuous employee development. The initiative ensures impactful training, fostering a culture of learning within the organization.
Bahrain achieved an 89% digital transformation rate in 2024, completing over 4 million eGovernment transactions. Key advancements include expanding eServices to over 700, reducing costs by 75%, and launching new systems like Sijilat 3.0. These efforts reflect Bahrain’s commitment to digital transformation and service quality improvement across all societal sectors.
A Boston Consulting Group report reveals that 85% of GCC senior executives prioritize innovation, surpassing the global average. However, GCC firms face challenges in converting ambition into readiness. Key recommendations include aligning innovation with business strategy and leveraging Generative AI. Addressing talent constraints and funding challenges will enhance innovation readiness.
The UAE saw an 11.7% rise in malware detections from January to May 2024, amid global cybersecurity challenges. Acronis’ H1 2024 Cyberthreats Report highlights a 293% surge in email attacks and rising ransomware threats. The report underscores the need for advanced protective measures and comprehensive security strategies for organizations.
Zeebu, a Web3 payments platform for telecom, partners with SilentSwap, a privacy-focused cross-chain aggregator, to enhance transaction privacy and security. This collaboration integrates SilentSwap’s technology into Zeebu’s blockchain solutions, setting new standards in telecom settlements and DeFi. The partnership aims to offer a secure, decentralized application for global transactions.
Qatar is leading AI investments in the MENA region with $2.4 billion in incentives, aiming to enhance its AI capabilities and attract global experts. The initiative is part of Qatar’s strategy to build a smart economy, with digital investments projected to reach $5.7 billion by 2026, significantly boosting various sectors.
Google for Startups has launched the AI Academy to support and accelerate AI startups in Pakistan and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The program offers tailored mentorship from AI experts, up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, and opportunities for cross-border collaboration, aiming to strengthen the AI ecosystem in APAC.
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has enhanced its customer service with generative AI and ChatGPT through its virtual employee, Rammas. Since its upgrade in April 2023, Rammas has handled over 9.6 million enquiries, achieving 95% customer satisfaction. DEWA is the first utility globally to use generative AI for customer engagement.