JD.com has launched JoyExpress, a self-operated courier service in Saudi Arabia, expanding its logistics footprint and intensifying competition with Meituan. The service covers same-day delivery and cross-border logistics, marking a significant step in JD.com’s Middle East growth strategy amid a heated rivalry in China’s delivery market.
Saudi Arabia has announced its candidacy to retain its ITU Council seat, emphasizing rapid global connectivity expansion, AI readiness, and regulatory leadership. The Kingdom’s digital workforce growth and upcoming hosting of the 2025 GSR in Riyadh reinforce its position as a regional and global leader in telecommunications and technology policy.
MoneyGram has partnered with Saudi Arabia’s digital wallet tiqmo to enable users to send international money transfers to over 200 countries. Tiqmo offers extensive financial services and has grown rapidly since its 2024 launch. This partnership leverages MoneyGram’s global infrastructure to benefit Saudi Arabia’s large remittance market, particularly for countries like India and Pakistan.
Globant has launched its Middle East Regional HQ in Riyadh, driving AI-led innovation and digital transformation aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The new hub includes a Center of Excellence and a global “Playground” to empower local talent and deliver advanced technology solutions across key industries.
UiPath has appointed Sara Al-Alsheikh as Regional Vice President and Managing Director for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Based in Riyadh, she will lead growth and customer success initiatives amid increasing AI automation adoption across the Gulf. With extensive experience and a strong regional track record, Al-Alsheikh’s leadership supports the Gulf’s Vision 2030 goals of innovation, sustainable growth, and gender inclusion.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs intensifies digital outreach with four daily Hajj-themed programs streamed live on YouTube, enhancing global access to religious teachings and fostering engagement during the pilgrimage season.
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.
