Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
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.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), and GSMA held a workshop titled “Bridging the Mobile Gender Gap” to address the digital gender divide in Pakistan. The event focused on enhancing women’s access to mobile technology and digital services through inclusive policies and global expertise.
The Oman Ministry of Labour and Omantel have partnered to train 86 university graduates in fields like AI, IoT, and data science. This initiative supports Oman’s Vision 2040 by developing a skilled workforce and positioning the nation as a digital leader. The Omantel Academy will provide the necessary technical training.
Ezditek has joined the Gulf Data Centre Association (GDCA) to support the growth of Middle Eastern digital infrastructure. The collaboration aims to enhance data centre standards and innovation across the Gulf region, aligning with GDCA’s mission to establish the GCC as a global digital hub. Ezditek will share expertise and collaborate on emerging technologies.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and APNIC held cybersecurity workshops in Lahore and Islamabad, focusing on “Incident Response and CERT.” Led by Adli Wahid from APNIC, the sessions included theoretical and practical training. The event concluded with a certificate ceremony, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s cybersecurity capabilities.
Oman’s Ministry of Transport, in collaboration with the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones, announced an investment opportunity to develop a ‘Tech Startup Zone’ at Airport Heights in Bausher. This initiative, aligned with Oman Vision 2040, aims to attract tech startups, offering incentives and fostering growth through a structured investment process.