Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Morocco stands at a pivotal moment in its digital journey. Its success will depend on reconciling technological ambition with institutional governance, financial inclusion, and human development — ensuring AI becomes a tool for empowerment, not dependency.
Morocco’s INPT and Al Mada Foundation launched a pioneering Master’s in Data and AI featuring a paid work-study model. The program blends academic and corporate experience to train data-driven professionals ready to lead the country’s digital transformation.
Nokia and du have completed a successful trial of WaveSuite AI, a GPT-enabled automation assistant that improves network planning, troubleshooting, and operational efficiency, setting a new benchmark for AI-driven telecom infrastructure in the UAE.
GITEX Global 2025 will unite 6,800 companies and 2,000 startups from 180 nations in Dubai, showcasing AI-driven breakthroughs across biotech, quantum, semiconductors, and data centres. With record global participation and expanding pavilions, the event cements the UAE’s position as the epicentre of global digital innovation.
Thriwe has launched its AI-powered concierge platform, Aina, in the UAE to revolutionize loyalty programs through intelligent, personalized engagement. The platform enhances customer experiences and operational efficiency, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a global innovation hub and Thriwe’s base for worldwide AI-led expansion.
Sri Lanka unveiled its National AI Strategy to power the digital economy, integrating AI into education, upskilling, and governance. The plan includes Google’s student partnership, a National Cyber Security Centre, and an Ethical AI framework to ensure safe innovation and inclusivity in the country’s digital transformation.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are deepening their partnership in AI, digital infrastructure, and talent development through the launch of GO AI Hub Pakistan. The initiative, led by GO Telecommunications Group and Pakistan’s IT ministry, will promote innovation, knowledge transfer, and cross-border digital collaboration between the two nations.
Sri Lanka’s AI startup ecosystem boasts world-class talent but struggles with scaling due to funding gaps, outdated policies, and limited digital adoption. Industry leaders urge urgent reforms, aggressive VC funding, and stronger collaboration to unlock the country’s potential to build a $15 billion digital economy.
The Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) launched its AI-REAL Toolkit at the G20 Digital Economy Ministers’ Meeting, providing governments with a framework to move from AI readiness to adoption. Covering five pillars and 39 KPIs, the toolkit supports responsible, inclusive, and sustainable AI growth across its 16 member states and beyond.
The UAE has announced the launch of its first AI Centre of Excellence, a partnership between Lakeba Group, UOWD, DoxAI, and AqlanX. Backed by NextGen FDI, the Centre will focus on sovereign AI R&D, Arabic LLMs, talent incubation, and IP commercialization, positioning the UAE as a global leader in AI innovation.