Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
By backing Yann LeCun’s venture, Shorooq is ensuring that the UAE’s AI strategy (anchored by initiatives like Falcon LLM) stays ahead of the curve. This investment likely signals future collaborations to bring AMI Labs’ “Causal AI” to the Gulf’s industrial, energy, and logistics sectors, where understanding the physical world is more valuable than just generating text.
e& posted record 2025 results with revenues up 23.1% to $19.85bn and net profit rising 33.6% to $3.92bn, alongside strong subscriber growth and a higher dividend payout, while announcing a leadership transition effective April 1.
Abu Dhabi has launched a Digital Arabic Library on Amazon, offering over 38,000 Arabic eBooks and audiobooks, including 1,000 free titles. The initiative expands global access to Arabic literature, supports regional publishers, and strengthens Arabic’s presence in the digital ecosystem for more than 400 million speakers worldwide.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy and ADAFSA have launched an AI-powered Smart Metre Project to enhance water efficiency and sustainable farming. Using real-time data and digital monitoring, the initiative improves water management across farms and supports food and water security as part of Abu Dhabi’s smart agriculture strategy.
Abu Dhabi has launched the FinTech, Insurance, Digital and Alternative Assets (FIDA) cluster to accelerate growth in next-generation financial services. Approved by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed and unveiled at Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2025, the initiative is projected to add AED56 billion to GDP by 2045, create 8,000 jobs, and attract AED17 billion in investment. The cluster will strengthen digital assets, fintech, insurance, ESG finance, and alternative investments while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global financial innovation hub.
Abu Dhabi is building a globally competitive ecosystem for autonomous transport through 29 partnerships spanning drones, logistics, delivery, and AI racing—cementing its position as a hub for next-generation mobility innovation and talent development.
Abu Dhabi has banned cryptocurrency mining on agricultural land, imposing a Dh100,000 fine on violators, with penalties doubling for repeat offenses. Authorities will cut power, seize equipment, and suspend support services for non-compliant farms. The move, a 900% fine increase from 2024, aims to safeguard food security and sustainability.
The inaugural Mobile Developers Week will bring together global Android and iOS developer communities in Abu Dhabi this December. Featuring 60+ speakers, four dedicated stages, and interactive exhibitions, the event reinforces the UAE’s leadership in mobile innovation, aligning with national goals to grow the digital economy and attract global talent.
Abu Dhabi’s AI sector grows 61% to 673 firms, driven by MBZUAI and strategic institutions, positioning the emirate as a leading global AI hub with a strong research and innovation ecosystem.
ADAFSA’s move to cloud computing supports Abu Dhabi’s goal of an AI-native government by 2027, improving efficiency and innovation in agriculture and food safety through scalable, secure, and intelligent digital infrastructure.