Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Jordan’s climb to first place in Arab cybersecurity rankings marks a milestone in its digital transformation. Through a mix of strong governance, proactive defense, and balanced regulation, the Kingdom is positioning cybersecurity as both a shield for national stability and a catalyst for economic growth.
Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Al-Swaha and Bahrain’s Sheikh Abdullah Al-Khalifa met in Kuwait to enhance cooperation in AI, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation, reinforcing GCC efforts to build an integrated regional digital economy.
Orange Jordan and ICON launched the second phase of their Startup Growth Acceleration Program in Al-Karak and Aqaba, supporting entrepreneurs through mentorship, training, and networking under the GIZ-led E4DE initiative to promote sustainable business growth across southern Jordan.
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.
Oman has signed an MoU with Nova Technology to develop its esports ecosystem through the WAJH platform, a new Esports Academy, and major gaming tournaments. The initiative aims to position Oman as a regional esports hub, empower youth, and support innovation under Oman Vision 2040.
Sri Lanka is accelerating its digital economy strategy with a five-year plan blending global best practices from India, Singapore, Estonia, and others. At the Fintech Summit 2025, Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya highlighted AI, seamless citizen services, and a national digital identity system as pillars of the transformation.
Morocco has partnered with tech startup z.systems to digitize tens of thousands of neighborhood shops. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, will connect local retailers with brands and distributors through a digital platform, boosting efficiency, competitiveness, and inclusion in the national digital economy.
Sri Lanka aims to grow its digital economy contribution to GDP from 3% to 15% within a decade, with fintech projected to unlock $15 billion in value. At the Fintech Summit 2025, Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya outlined a DPI-led strategy built on trust, innovation, inclusion, and regulation to drive growth.
Jordan has ranked first in the Arab world and 20th globally in cybersecurity with a 98.6% score, reflecting strong ICT talent and growth. The sector employs 46,000 people, contributes JD3.6 billion to GDP, and attracts global tech giants, positioning Jordan as a regional hub for digital transformation and innovation.
Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has joined GovPay, enabling secure online payments for tourism levies and services. The integration streamlines processes, enhances transparency, and supports Sri Lanka’s digital economy agenda, making tourism more efficient and aligned with the country’s economic revival strategy.