The UAE’s Telecommunications & Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has launched the operational phase of its ICT Regulatory Sandbox. This initiative allows new tech products and services in the ICT sector to be tested in a controlled environment before market release. It aims to ensure appropriate legislative responses and foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Saudi Arabia’s National Events Center, in partnership with CODE and Monsha’at, has launched EventTech, a national initiative aimed at driving digital innovation in the events sector. Aligned with Vision 2030, EventTech promotes collaboration among government agencies, accelerates digital transformation, and engages the public in developing innovative digital solutions.
Ooredoo, in partnership with Tech Mahindra, has successfully advanced its digital transformation by revamping its CRM and IT infrastructure. This multi-phase project enhances digital customer experiences across Oman, with completed phases for B2C services and upcoming transformations for B2C fixed-line and B2B segments. Ooredoo is committed to providing cutting-edge digital solutions.
Ooredoo Kuwait, in collaboration with FASTtelco and the Kuwaiti Ministry of Information, celebrates over 6 million views on the digital platform [51], marking a significant milestone in digital entertainment. Launched as a trial, [51] showcases Kuwaiti media on a global scale, aligning with “Kuwait Vision 2035.”
Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) has launched a digital platform through the Saudi Business Center to streamline key entertainment services, boosting business activity and investment. The initiative supports the Kingdom’s entertainment sector, part of Vision 2030, which saw a 130% rise in visitor numbers and increased licensing activity in 2024.
Arab Financial Services (AFS) and Samsung Gulf Electronics have launched Samsung Pay in Oman, marking a key step in the country’s digital transformation. This partnership combines AFS’s expertise in digital payments with Samsung’s technology, offering Omani consumers secure, convenient contactless payments and supporting Oman’s financial ecosystem and regulatory goals.
Qatar’s computing sector is set to generate $65.5 million in revenue in 2024, with a projected growth to $82.92 million by 2029. The country is advancing digital innovation and transformation, driving demand for digital skills in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software development. Google Cloud’s presence further supports this growth trajectory.
At the Digital Nation Summit in Islamabad, telecom leaders discussed the critical role of smartphones in bridging Pakistan’s digital divide. Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim emphasized the need for affordable smart devices and policy reforms. The summit also highlighted sustainability efforts and the telecom sector’s importance in driving economic growth and digital inclusion.
Huawei Cloud, in collaboration with Fintech Saudi, hosted the Huawei Cloud Fintech Day Saudi Arabia 2024, highlighting innovative cloud solutions for the Kingdom’s fintech industry. The event introduced the Fintech Pioneer Program, offering exclusive support to fintech companies, and emphasized the partnership’s role in driving digital transformation and fostering a robust fintech ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.
Qatar Development Bank (QDB), in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Agency, launched the “Cyber Security Manual for SMEs” to enhance cybersecurity awareness and provide practical guidelines for small and medium-sized enterprises in Qatar. The manual addresses common cyber risks, basic security controls, and employee training, aiming to strengthen the national entrepreneurial ecosystem.
