Globant has opened its Middle East Regional HQ in Riyadh to lead AI-driven digital transformation. The hub will train local talent and accelerate innovation across key sectors, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and positioning the Kingdom as a global technology center.
Standard Chartered has launched the third edition of its ‘Women in Tech’ accelerator programme in Saudi Arabia, in partnership with Falak Investment Hub. The programme supports women-led startups with tech-driven solutions, offering mentorship, masterclasses, and $45,000 in grants to top performers. Applications are open until June 27, 2025.
Saudi Arabia has launched a new service via the Tawakkalna app for displaying all official Hajj 2025 permits. Integrated with the Tasreeh platform, the service allows both domestic and international pilgrims to access various permits required for the pilgrimage. Strict regulations are in place to prevent unauthorized pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia’s e-commerce sector saw a 73.4% year-on-year increase in MADA card transactions in March 2025, totaling SR27.55 billion ($7.34 billion). This surge is driven by the widespread adoption of MADA cards, government initiatives, and improved consumer trust, marking significant growth in the Kingdom’s digital payment ecosystem.
Saudi Arabia’s General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque has unveiled its most extensive operational plan for the upcoming Hajj season. The plan focuses on enhancing pilgrim services, featuring AI robots, multilingual smart screens, and educational platforms, ensuring a seamless and meaningful Hajj experience.
Nqoodlet, a Saudi-based fintech platform, raised $3 million in seed funding to enhance its financial management tools for SMEs in the GCC. The platform helps SMEs streamline operations and achieve significant cost savings, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to foster SME growth and financial inclusion.
Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) invites public feedback on the Global AI Hub Law, aimed at boosting digital infrastructure and attracting AI and data center investments. The law seeks to establish Saudi Arabia as a global digital hub, supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth in advanced technologies.
India and Saudi Arabia have deepened their strategic partnership with a focus on technology, investment, and sustainability. Key agreements include collaborations in space exploration, digital infrastructure, green energy, and trade. Both countries aim to enhance economic integration, tackle climate challenges, and strengthen security ties, promoting mutual growth.
Saudi Arabia has been appointed to the ITU Digital Regulation Network Board, with Eng. Omar Alrejraje representing the Kingdom. This highlights Saudi Arabia’s global leadership in digital regulatory readiness and its significant role in shaping international digital transformation. The Kingdom continues to strengthen its influence in the global communications sector.
Dr. Saira Siddique’s healthcare tech start-up, MedIQ, has raised $6 million to expand its AI-driven platform that connects insurers, healthcare providers, and patients. Following its success in Pakistan, MedIQ is now expanding into Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and other GCC markets, aligning with healthcare modernization goals in the region.
