Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Ezditek has joined the Gulf Data Centre Association (GDCA) to support the growth of Middle Eastern digital infrastructure. The collaboration aims to enhance data centre standards and innovation across the Gulf region, aligning with GDCA’s mission to establish the GCC as a global digital hub. Ezditek will share expertise and collaborate on emerging technologies.
Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) achieved significant digital transformation milestones in H1 2024, including 4 million electronic transactions, BD374 million in digital payments, 35 new eServices, and partnerships with key entities. The iGA also launched major national systems and improved government service efficiency and effectiveness.
Egypt will launch a digital platform to engage diaspora academics in national higher education and research strategies. The JESOR-D Initiative will facilitate collaboration with experts abroad, addressing local development challenges and promoting sustainable growth. This platform aims to turn brain drain into brain gain, enhancing Egypt’s academic and research capabilities.
Abu Dhabi Customs reported a 27% increase in digital transactions and a 28% rise in proactive automated transactions in the first half of 2024. Customs declarations grew by 2%, and clearance times dropped to 13.86 minutes. The organization scored 94% in customer satisfaction, reflecting significant progress in digital transformation and service efficiency.
Valu, MENA’s leading financial technology company, has partnered with Truecaller to enhance customer safety and business communication. By adopting Truecaller’s Verified Business Caller ID solution, Valu aims to provide secure, verified interactions, fostering trust and efficiency. This collaboration underscores Valu’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology for improved customer experience and financial inclusion.
Pakistani engineers have developed “Beep,” a secure government messaging app for officials, ready for launch after successful trials. The app could extend to citizens if approved, amid ongoing social media restrictions and internet shutdowns. “Beep” aims to ensure uninterrupted communication among officials, featuring text, audio, video sharing, and conference calls.
The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) in Qatar launched ‘Talib,’ an AI-powered chatbot providing instant support to students, parents, and the public in Arabic and English. This initiative aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, emphasizing digital transformation in education. ‘Talib’ aims to streamline processes and enhance communication efficiency.
Orange Jordan launched a Digital Self-Registration Service using the eKYC system, enabling customers to electronically authenticate prepaid mobile lines. This innovation allows remote identity verification via the “SANAD” app, enhancing the digital customer experience. The initiative reflects Orange’s commitment to digital leadership and supporting Jordan’s digital transformation vision.
The Institute of Business Management (IoBM), New Horizon, and Huawei Technologies showcased their new IT infrastructure at an event in Karachi. The initiative aims to enhance digital transformation in education, improve data security, and support innovative teaching. Key speakers emphasized the importance of technology in modernizing education and driving Pakistan’s technological advancement.
Digital Dubai, in collaboration with government and private sector partners, is implementing the Strategic Vision for the Data Centre Economy. This initiative aims to position Dubai as a leading destination for sustainable, AI-driven data centres, enhancing digital transformation and economic productivity, and supporting next-generation technologies like Web 3.0, Metaverse, and Smart Cities.