Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia set a Guinness World Record by hosting the world’s largest digital solutions hackathon, uniting thousands of participants to build AI-driven public service innovations. The event highlighted national talent, unveiled new digital platforms, and strengthened partnerships supporting Vision 2030 and large-scale digital transformation.
Saudi Arabia ranked second globally in the ITU Digital Regulatory Maturity Index 2025, retaining “Leading” status among 193 countries. The achievement reflects strong leadership support, inclusive digital policies, cross-sector collaboration, and regulatory frameworks that drive innovation, investment, and digital economy growth.
Saudi Telecom Company, through Center3, has signed an MoU with PIF-backed Humain to form a joint venture developing AI-focused data centers in Saudi Arabia. The partnership targets 1GW of capacity, starting with 250MW, supporting the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global hub for AI infrastructure.
IBM recorded a landmark year in Saudi Arabia by empowering over 500,000 nationals with digital skills, expanding consulting operations to Al-Baha, advancing AI-driven logistics innovation, and partnering with Riyadh Air to launch the world’s first AI-native airline, reinforcing its alignment with Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s digital ambitions.
GLO Ventures and Riyadah Solutions have completed a strategic investment round to support smart mobility in Saudi Arabia. The initiative focuses on building an integrated fleet management and vehicle rental platform, enabling automation and IoT-based services, and aligning with Vision 2030’s goals for digital transformation and innovation.
Myriota has launched its HyperPulse™ 5G non-terrestrial satellite IoT network, bringing scalable, low-latency connectivity to Saudi Arabia and other global markets. Built on 3GPP standards and powered by Viasat satellites, the platform supports advanced IoT use cases and is set to expand further in 2026.
SDAIA and ICESCO have agreed to collaborate on implementing the Riyadh Charter on Artificial Intelligence across 53 Islamic countries, establishing a unified ethical AI governance framework. The partnership focuses on responsible AI practices, capacity building, and aligning technology adoption with humanitarian values and sustainable development goals.
Saudi Arabia’s SDAIA and ICESCO have agreed to work together to implement the Riyadh Charter on Artificial Intelligence across 53 Islamic countries. The initiative aims to create a unified, ethical AI governance framework, build national AI capabilities, promote responsible innovation, and align AI development with humanitarian values and sustainable development goals.
ITHCA has launched new funding and accelerator initiatives to help Omani tech startups scale into Saudi Arabia. The move includes rebranding its ideation fund, launching the Baw’wabah Accelerator, and signing a partnership with Saudi-based Vision Ventures to strengthen cross-border investment access.
Saudi Arabia’s rapid advancement toward Vision 2030 has placed cybersecurity at the center of national progress. With over $100 billion invested in AI and digital innovation, and 85% of key initiatives completed, the Kingdom is strengthening digital trust through advanced security frameworks, AI-enabled protection, and sector-wide collaboration. Cybersecurity now underpins economic resilience, public services, and long-term digital leadership.