Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
STC Bank has been recognized as Saudi Arabia’s Best Digital Bank, highlighting its rapid evolution from a digital wallet to a full banking service embraced by millions. The award from Inc. Arabia underscores STC Bank’s innovation and leadership in shaping digital financial services for the Kingdom’s tech-savvy population.
LWK + Partners have designed Pulse Wadi, a $3.2 billion technology and cybersecurity district near Riyadh featuring sustainable urban design, smart city tech, and cultural integration. The project supports Saudi Vision 2030 by blending green spaces with innovation, creating a future-ready Silicon Valley for the Kingdom.
Qatar and Saudi Arabia have formalized cooperation to securely exchange personal data under aligned data protection frameworks, enhancing cybersecurity and enabling cross-border digital services. This agreement, alongside prior MOUs, supports regional interoperability and sets higher compliance standards for public and private sector entities.
AIQU’s Deploy-on-Demand model enables Saudi Arabian organizations to fill critical tech roles 50% faster and at 30-50% lower cost than traditional hiring. This solution addresses acute talent shortages under Vision 2030 by providing pre-verified professionals and comprehensive onboarding, supporting agile scaling for digital transformation projects.
Saudi quick-commerce company Ninja raised $250 million in a funding round led by Riyad Capital, reaching a $1.5 billion valuation and gaining unicorn status. Founded in 2022, Ninja delivers groceries and essentials across Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf countries. The funds will support expansion, logistics scaling, and preparation for a planned IPO on the Saudi Exchange by 2027. This investment highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing startup ecosystem and Riyad Capital’s key role in regional venture funding.
Ericsson has launched its new regional headquarters in Riyadh, deepening its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by fostering innovation, collaboration, and advanced digital infrastructure. The company continues to strengthen partnerships with key Saudi telecom operators and research institutions to drive technological leadership in the Middle East and Africa.
PetroApp’s $50 million funding round led by Jadwa Investment supports its IPO plans and regional growth across four countries. The platform leverages Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation and rising demand for efficient, integrated fleet management, marking a significant evolution in Middle East payment ecosystems.
Ericsson has expanded its graduate recruitment and university partnerships as it opens its regional headquarters in Riyadh, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by developing local talent and driving innovation in 5G, IoT, and digital sustainability projects. The company’s ecosystem-focused approach aims to build inclusive, forward-looking digital infrastructure in the Kingdom and broader MENA region.
Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing delivery startup Ninja has secured $250 million in funding led by Riyad Capital, reaching a $1.5 billion valuation and becoming the Kingdom’s newest tech unicorn. The funding highlights Saudi Arabia’s expanding venture capital ecosystem and startup scene, supporting the government’s efforts to diversify the economy. Ninja plans an IPO by 2027 and operates in multiple Gulf countries, reflecting regional growth in tech-driven logistics services.
TeamLab Borderless Jeddah marks a significant cultural milestone as Saudi Arabia’s first permanent digital art museum. By integrating interactive, evolving artworks within a heritage site, it exemplifies the Ministry of Culture’s initiative to blend tradition with contemporary creativity. This innovative space supports Saudi Vision 2030’s goals to empower the creative sector and position the Kingdom as a global hub for art and technology.