Mercy Corps and Queen for Change launched the Tahammul digital platform in Jordan to address climate change. The platform aims to improve cooperation, resource allocation, and transparency in climate action. Key dialogues at the launch focused on securing climate financing and building resilience through policies, technology, and protecting vulnerable groups.
The Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) won the Bahrain Digital Content Award 2023 for its Tawasul, Al-Tajir, and Sehati apps. These apps, recognized for excellence in government engagement, business, and health, reflect Bahrain’s commitment to digital transformation and enhancing services for citizens and residents.
Damac Group significantly boosts its investment in AI and digital infrastructure, aligning with its vision for technological advancement. Key investments include AI startups like Anthropic, xAI, and Mistral. The group also plans to invest $1 billion in data centers, expanding its global presence in this critical sector.
Morocco’s conference on trade digitalisation, supported by EBRD and ICC, focuses on reducing costs and increasing transparency. Key discussions include legal frameworks, international initiatives, and the importance of digital infrastructure. The event aims to align Morocco’s trade procedures with global standards, benefiting its economy and integration into the global market.
Morocco is witnessing a significant surge in mobile and internet usage, with mobile phone subscriptions exceeding 55.4 million in Q1 2024 and an internet penetration rate of 103.5%. This growth reflects the country’s ongoing digital transformation, driven by improved telecommunications infrastructure and increasing affordability.
A new app developed by Virginia Tech and Medina Tech Ltd. aims to help Bangladeshi farmers identify and manage crop pests. The Groundnut IPM app provides crucial pest management information, using AI for real-time detection and GPS for location-based recommendations. The app, available in Bengali, is free and will be piloted to 1,000 farmers.
Dell Technologies and Presight have signed an MoU to develop AI and big data solutions, enhancing digital transformation in the UAE. The collaboration will focus on innovative edge, open RAN, and IoT analytics architectures, combining Presight’s AI expertise with Dell’s infrastructure solutions for sustainable and secure advancements.
In 2023, Oman managed over 460 cybersecurity incidents and resolved 241 cybercrime cases. The country processed over 30 million electronic transactions and deployed 4,566 5G stations. Investments in AI and space technology reached RO31.2 million and US$155 million, respectively, showcasing Oman’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation.
Saudi Arabia saw a 14% annual increase in expatriate remittances in April, totaling SR11.35 billion. Payments from Saudis also rose by 30%, reaching SR4.94 billion. This growth is driven by new development projects, improved economic conditions, digitalization, and supportive regulatory reforms, enhancing the ease of doing business.
Dubai has appointed 22 Chief AI Officers across government entities to lead AI-enabled government operations, as part of the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence (DUB.AI), aiming to establish the emirate as a global leader in AI innovation.
