Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Orange Middle East and Africa awarded three start-ups at the Orange Summer Challenge 2025, recognising technology-driven solutions addressing environmental and societal challenges. The initiative supports young entrepreneurs through funding, mentoring, and innovation programmes aimed at advancing digital inclusion and sustainable development across Africa and the Middle East.
Hackathon activities will run until February 14, culminating in final project presentations and recognition of the most innovative solutions. The initiative reflects the ministry’s focus on transforming ideas into practical applications that address the needs of the digital economy while strengthening youth engagement in technology-driven sectors.
Zain Great Idea Demo Day showcased 11 startups from six Arab markets, connecting entrepreneurs with investors and partners while reinforcing Zain Group’s strategy of linking innovation, venture investment, and digital technology to accelerate regional startup growth.
Luma AI is accelerating global expansion and AI infrastructure development, leveraging new funding and Middle East partnerships to advance multimodal AI models while positioning the region as a future hub for AI compute and innovation.
Qatar and Germany have agreed to establish a new innovation hub in Doha to accelerate deep technology transfer, entrepreneurship and research commercialisation, strengthening collaboration between European and Gulf innovation ecosystems.
KAFD expects the supported startups to create income opportunities, generate employment for youth in the governorates, and deliver measurable economic and social impact as they move from concept to operational businesses.
Qatar announced a $2 billion expansion of its Fund of Funds and new incentives for startups at Web Summit 2026, including 10-year residencies and compute credits. The move strengthens Qatar’s position as a global innovation hub attracting founders, investors, and technology leaders worldwide.
Orange Jordan sponsored TEDxKings Academy as the exclusive telecom partner, supporting a platform that encouraged critical thinking and knowledge sharing under the theme “Think Again.” The initiative reflects Orange Jordan’s commitment to youth empowerment, education, and fostering innovation as part of its responsible digital leadership strategy.
Bangladesh inaugurated its largest technology expo in Dhaka as Professor Muhammad Yunus highlighted the sector’s national importance. The four-day Digital Device and Innovation Expo features innovation zones, seminars, and industry showcases, supporting the country’s ambition to scale ICT exports, build digital skills, attract investment, and position Bangladesh as a producer of homegrown technologies.
Egypt’s young innovators are using AI to solve real-world problems and reimagine history, from healthcare robots to hieroglyph-translating apps. Backed by rising investment and government support, AI is becoming central to education, entrepreneurship, and national development, positioning Egypt’s youth at the forefront of technological transformation.