Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia set a Guinness World Record by hosting the world’s largest digital solutions hackathon, uniting thousands of participants to build AI-driven public service innovations. The event highlighted national talent, unveiled new digital platforms, and strengthened partnerships supporting Vision 2030 and large-scale digital transformation.
Oman’s MTCIT has opened registration for the Hadatha Sectorial Hackathon, a national initiative to strengthen telecom cybersecurity and support digital transformation. Targeting professionals, entrepreneurs, and startups, the event aims to develop scalable cyber solutions, boost local talent, and reinforce the country’s digital resilience across critical sectors.
InnoVista has launched Pakistan’s first National Agentic AI Hackathon with partners Google, PAFLA, and Systems Limited. The event will span six cities, engage 1,000+ participants, and focus on AgriTech, fintech, climate, health, and education, fostering AI-driven innovation and positioning Pakistan as a global AI contender.
Saudi youth teams at the EmpowerME Hackathon proposed AI-powered sustainability solutions, from café water reuse and mycelium packaging to loyalty-points tree planting. Organized by Starbucks Foundation, Alshaya Group, and INJAZ Al-Arab, the event aligned with Vision 2030 and showcased youth-led innovation for greener communities.
INJAZ Bahrain and BBK successfully hosted the BBK FinSec Knights Hackathon, empowering university students to develop innovative cybersecurity solutions. The event provided expert-led workshops and hands-on learning, with financial prizes awarded to the best teams. This initiative underscores the importance of preparing the next generation for the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
The Omantel – Hafeet Rail Hackathon, held in Al Buraimi, Oman, from December 12-15, 2024, brought together over 15 teams to create AI and IoT-based solutions in energy, logistics, and environmental sectors. The event aimed to foster innovation and empower Omani talent, contributing to sustainable growth and digital transformation in Oman.