Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
LAHINT and EBANAH have signed an MoU at the LEAP 2025 conference to enhance government service automation in Saudi Arabia and Oman. The partnership focuses on cloud computing, AI, and automation technologies, supporting both nations’ digital transformation efforts while aiming for significant revenue growth over the next three years.
The UAE has named Latifa as its first virtual Emirati family member following a public vote. Part of a Digital Dubai initiative, Latifa and her family will serve as digital ambassadors promoting AI awareness, digital responsibility, and storytelling around Dubai’s innovation and community values.
Ooredoo reported a 5% decrease in Q1 2024 net profits, with earnings at QAR 912.93 million, despite a 4% revenue increase to QAR 5.86 billion. The telecom company also announced a dividend of QAR 0.55 per share and aims to boost stakeholder value through strategic initiatives and operational efficiencies.
At the “Women in Technology” seminar in Dhaka, Bangladesh’s ICT Division reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing women’s participation in technology. Shish Haider Chowdhury highlighted ongoing projects aimed at empowering women through ICT. The seminar also called for increased public-private partnerships to support tech training and women’s entrepreneurship.
Warba Bank has launched Rowad 6.0, its innovation program aimed at training Kuwaiti and GCC students in technology, AI, and banking solutions. Organized with DIFC Innovation Hub, the eight-week program builds on five years of success, preparing future leaders with advanced skills and hands-on mentorship to drive digital transformation.
A mixed-methods study of Jordanian university students finds ChatGPT is the most widely used AI tool for academic tasks, with most students recognizing its usefulness. While many report improved academic performance, fewer feel it substantially enhances understanding, prompting further research on AI’s educational impact.
TAQA and ACWA Power, along with other international firms, have secured multi-billion-dollar green hydrogen projects in Morocco. These projects, focused on ammonia, industrial fuel, and green steel production, are part of Morocco’s efforts to strengthen its position in the global green energy market, with a combined value of nearly $32 billion.
Mobile money and interoperable payments are accelerating financial inclusion in Africa, processing billions in transactions and supporting regional trade. Yet digital divides, cybersecurity risks, and fragmented regulation remain barriers. Expanding infrastructure and harmonized policy will be key to sustaining growth and driving a fully integrated digital economy.
Google Pay is set to launch in Pakistan by March 2025, allowing users to link debit and credit cards for contactless payments through the Google Wallet app. The service will initially focus on basic payments, with advanced features like loyalty cards and transport passes to follow in future phases.
Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition has partnered with FRDISI to support digital research and innovation. The partnership includes funding 18 doctoral theses, aligning with national goals to increase the ICT sector’s GDP contribution and create 125,000 new jobs.