Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Oman is strengthening its role as a regional investment hub through regulatory reform, digital government services, and investor-friendly policies aligned with Vision 2040. Simplified company setup, low costs, and rising FDI reflect growing confidence in the Sultanate’s business environment.
Merak Capital has invested SAR203 million in Saudi cybersecurity firm DSShield to support expansion of operations, technology development, and managed services. The deal strengthens DSShield’s role in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing cybersecurity market and supports its pathway toward a future public listing.
Qatar and Brookfield have formed a $20 billion joint venture to develop AI infrastructure, including an Integrated Compute Center, strengthening Qatar’s digital ecosystem and advancing Vision 2030. Brookfield invests through its global AI fund, supporting Qatar’s goal of becoming a regional hub for advanced computing.
Beyout’s subsidiary Real Estate House has received KAPP’s approval for its technical proposal to redevelop Kuwait’s Al Muthanna Complex, advancing a 15-year plan covering renovation, management, and maintenance on 17,183 sqm of state-owned land in Qibla.
MENA startups across fintech, logistics, AI, and SaaS sectors raised significant capital recently, reflecting robust regional innovation. New funds and media partnerships bolster ecosystem growth, while Saudi Arabia hosts OpenAI models locally, enhancing AI access.
Jordan promotes access to a $50 trillion market at Singapore forum, emphasizing strategic location, growing industries, and strong trade agreements. The country advances economic modernization, green energy, and bilateral partnerships to boost investment and exports.
UAE-based VC fund EQIQ has invested $3 million in InstaBank, a new AI-powered digital bank in Iraq, as part of a $15 million funding round. Led by finance veteran Hussain Qaragholi, InstaBank aims to transform Iraq’s financial sector with scalable, inclusive fintech services and serve as a core pillar of EQIQ’s regional digital ecosystem strategy.
Oman’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has introduced a new bylaw to regulate international telecommunications cables. The decision aims to strengthen the country’s telecom infrastructure, attract investment, and improve service quality. It establishes a streamlined regulatory framework for cable installation, operation, and maintenance in Omani lands and waters.
Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), in collaboration with the South African Artificial Intelligence Association (SAAIA), has launched a cross-border AI trade & investment hub. This initiative will enhance AI startups’ access to global capital, markets, and networks across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, fostering innovation and development.
Tech startups in the UAE and Saudi Arabia face rising competition as international founders reshape the region’s landscape. Entrepreneurs are urged to demonstrate strong business models, adaptability, and market understanding to succeed. Key principles for success include motivation, intuition, courage, foresight, and inspiration to stay competitive and attract investment.