Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
AI is at the heart of Middle East national strategies, driving transformation across energy, manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare. With bold government targets and integrated tech ecosystems, the region is poised to lead global AI innovation by 2030.
A Pakistani student team from IST won the Best AI Use Award at the APAC Solution Challenge 2025 for their AI-driven disaster preparedness solution, while another team from NUCES FAST also reached the top 10. These achievements reflect Pakistan’s rising potential in artificial intelligence and innovation on the global stage.
Morocco’s Deputy Minister emphasized the urgent need to integrate AI into national strategies to protect sovereignty and promote social equity. Speaking at the inaugural National AI Conference, she urged the public sector to adapt and lead AI adoption aligned with Morocco’s Digital 2030 vision, reinforcing the country’s role in shaping Africa’s technological future.
Sri Lanka is pursuing a fivefold growth in its digital economy by 2029, anchored by a comprehensive AI-first strategy that promotes economic growth, inclusion, and governance. The national AI policy and infrastructure aim to embed AI in public services and critical sectors, ensuring responsible use supported by trust and legislative frameworks.
Qatar’s technology acceleration, driven by AI adoption and robust government investment, has propelled its innovation rankings and digital economy growth. With strong leadership embracing GenAI, quantum computing, and industry collaboration, Qatar is building a resilient, diversified economy aligned with its 2030 vision.
SRTI Park’s Business Breakfast event showcased advancements in AI and quantum computing from leading tech companies and in-house startups. The event highlighted the AI Factory concept, technology stack essentials, and products like AHB’s Dialog XR chatbot, reflecting Sharjah’s growing role as a hub for AI innovation and collaboration in the UAE and beyond.
Ibtechar and AI Crafters have partnered to accelerate AI adoption in Qatar, combining training and custom AI solutions to support organisations in navigating digital transformation. The alliance aligns with Qatar’s strategic goals to foster a diversified, knowledge-driven economy through innovative AI integration.
Smart glasses are experiencing a major comeback as AI advancements enable more useful, context-aware features. Leading tech companies including Snap, Meta, Google, Apple, and Amazon are developing next-generation eyewear that integrates AI for real-time object recognition, translation, and conversational assistance. While challenges like privacy, cost, and consumer adoption remain, market growth projections signal strong potential for smart glasses to become the next transformative technology platform.
Ghana and the UAE’s Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation have signed a $1 billion agreement to build a large-scale innovation hub near Accra. The project, launching in 2026, aims to position Ghana as a continental leader in AI and digital technology, leveraging local talent trained under Ghana’s “One Million Coders” program. The UAE’s PCFC will bring funding, technology, and global partnerships to the initiative, marking their first hub in Africa. This strategic move is expected to create thousands of jobs and accelerate Africa’s digital transformation.
Bangladesh is accelerating its AI adoption across key sectors including telecommunications, agriculture, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. By integrating AI, the country aims to boost operational efficiency, innovation, and global competitiveness. Collaboration between private and public sectors is essential to drive sustainable digital transformation and align with international standards.