Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia has begun construction of the world’s largest government data centre in Riyadh, a 480MW Tier IV facility developed by SDAIA. The Hexagon data centre will host hundreds of government systems and support data sovereignty, AI innovation, and the Kingdom’s digital economy ambitions.
Saal.ai and Nutanix have launched SovereignGPT, a UAE-built Agentic AI platform offering fully sovereign, on-premise generative AI for governments and enterprises. The solution ensures data sovereignty, government-grade security, and autonomous AI capabilities without moving sensitive data off-premise.
Arab policymakers and experts gathered in Tozeur to examine how cultural and creative industries can drive sustainable development in the age of artificial intelligence. The forum focused on future professions, financing creativity, digital transformation, and protecting creators’ rights across the Arab world.
Qatar advanced its AI and digital transformation agenda in 2025 through major policy initiatives, global technology events, and government-wide AI adoption programs. These efforts strengthened national readiness, improved public-sector efficiency, and reinforced Qatar’s position as a regional and global leader in advanced technologies.
The third Arab regional forum brought together policymakers and experts in Tozeur to explore how cultural and creative industries can drive sustainable development in the age of artificial intelligence. Discussions focused on future professions, financing creativity, digital transformation, and protecting creators’ rights.
Chinese robotaxi companies including WeRide, Baidu and Pony.ai are rapidly expanding across the Middle East, using the UAE as a launchpad for global growth. Supported by favourable regulation and smart mobility goals, the region is becoming a key testing ground for large-scale driverless transport.
Pakistan will host a National AI Conference in early 2026 to strengthen its AI ecosystem and promote adoption across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, fintech, and governance. The event will connect startups, policymakers, researchers, and investors to drive innovation and responsible AI use.
Chinese aerospace firm PIESAT showcased satellite, drone, and AI technologies at AI Rise Expo 2025 in Islamabad, reinforcing China–Pakistan cooperation in space, digital innovation, and satellite internet initiatives supporting development and resilience.
Superchat has launched Shop Anything, a WhatsApp-based feature that lets users search, compare, and buy products from any online store through a single chat. The launch reflects the UAE’s shift toward conversational, AI-driven commerce.
Qatar is embedding artificial intelligence across government services and national programs under its Digital Agenda 2030. Through coordinated policy, infrastructure investment, and applied AI projects, the country is strengthening efficiency, innovation, and its position as a regional technology hub.