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 will introduce an AI curriculum to over six million public school students in 2025–2026, aligning with Vision 2030 goals to build a knowledge-based society. The program, supported by SDAIA, includes global training, ethical AI guidelines, scholarships, and academies to prepare a future generation of AI leaders.
Saudi Arabia has launched Humain Chat, its first Arabic AI app powered by the ALLAM 34B model built locally by Saudi experts. Available on mobile and web, the culturally attuned platform serves 350 million Arabic speakers worldwide, marking a milestone in the Kingdom’s ambition to lead AI innovation.
Pakistan’s Visor Dynamics has unveiled Elite AI, a homegrown defense-focused AI platform capable of analyzing satellite imagery, intelligence data, and mission planning scenarios in real time. The launch positions Pakistan alongside global leaders in defense AI and highlights the nation’s capacity for world-class technological innovation.
Cisco and CMU-Africa warn that while Africa could add $2.9 trillion to its economy through AI by 2030, the continent must address its severe skills gap. With 75% of its population under 35 and strong entrepreneurial drive, Africa is well-placed to lead global AI innovation if investments in education, infrastructure, and collaboration accelerate.
The UAE has ranked first globally in telecom infrastructure with a perfect UN score and continues to lead the world in mobile internet speeds. In 2024, it completed 173.7 million digital transactions, reflecting a 91% satisfaction rate. By 2030, AI is expected to contribute US$100 billion to GDP.
Sri Lanka is launching a Rs 100 million National AI Fund to fuel innovation and target US$ 1.8B in AI-driven economic value by 2030. The initiative includes an AI Expo, nationwide mini expos, and a forthcoming national AI policy to promote responsible, inclusive adoption.
Egyptian developer Ahmed El-Kholy’s Manetho app uses AI to instantly translate hieroglyphics and includes AR experiences that animate artifacts. Winner of Huawei’s regional developer competition, the app aims to expand into VR, offering immersive ways to explore Egypt’s ancient history.
The UAE is pioneering AI-powered projects to modernise Arabic, blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge technology to ensure its global relevance.
Accenture and Qatar Airways’ AI Skyways initiative aims to redefine aviation by combining responsible AI, operational optimisation, and personalised customer experiences.
Indonesia plans a sovereign AI fund managed by Danantara Indonesia to drive AI growth and regional leadership by 2030, addressing challenges and attracting global tech partners.