Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Abu Dhabi’s AI sector grows 61% to 673 firms, driven by MBZUAI and strategic institutions, positioning the emirate as a leading global AI hub with a strong research and innovation ecosystem.
Zain Jordan funded AI startup LeafleX with 15,000 JOD and one year of logistical support, reinforcing its commitment to youth entrepreneurship and tech innovation in healthcare.
Saudi Arabia’s tech delegation led by Minister Abdullah Alswaha visited UK firms specializing in AI, deep tech, and LEO satellite communications, advancing partnerships aligned with Vision 2030 to foster innovation and localization of future technologies.
ORA, a Casablanca-born Moroccan startup, raised $7.5 million in Series A funding, championing the value of local innovation and signaling Morocco’s readiness to support homegrown tech ventures.
Ofcom plans to drive innovation in UK communications by adopting flexible, collaboration-based regulation supporting 5G, broadband, and digital media while addressing the digital divide and privacy.
Ericsson has expanded its graduate recruitment and university partnerships as it opens its regional headquarters in Riyadh, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by developing local talent and driving innovation in 5G, IoT, and digital sustainability projects. The company’s ecosystem-focused approach aims to build inclusive, forward-looking digital infrastructure in the Kingdom and broader MENA region.
A Pakistani student team from IST won the Best AI Use Award at the APAC Solution Challenge 2025 for their AI-driven disaster preparedness solution, while another team from NUCES FAST also reached the top 10. These achievements reflect Pakistan’s rising potential in artificial intelligence and innovation on the global stage.
SLT-MOBITEL sponsored the SLIoT Challenge 2025, Sri Lanka’s top IoT competition, nurturing youth innovation across school, university, and open categories. Winners demonstrated outstanding creativity and technical skill, reflecting the country’s advancing digital landscape and SLT-MOBITEL’s commitment to fostering next-gen tech talent.
Aria Ventures has launched a $1 million fund to support deep-tech startups by bridging research and market application. The venture studio plans to grow the fund to $4 million over four years while offering hands-on support and infrastructure. Their DeepTecher competition fosters innovation by mentoring and funding promising projects in AI, biotech, robotics, and related sectors.
Jordan has made significant progress in innovation, sustainability, and economic development, according to the first-quarter 2025 report on its Economic Modernisation Vision. The Kingdom has improved its rankings in key areas such as inclusiveness and resilience, with strong initiatives in digital inclusion, innovation, and infrastructure development.