Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Siemens opens its first Digital Industries Software office in Saudi Arabia to localise operations, enable direct support, and deliver the full Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, strengthening collaboration with key customers and academia while advancing Vision 2030, industrial digitalisation, and Saudization through long-term skills and ecosystem development.
Bold Brand has launched AI-powered marketing services in Egypt and Saudi Arabia to help businesses improve efficiency, customer experience, and campaign performance. The agency is tailoring its solutions to distinct consumer behaviours and regulatory environments, using data analytics and automation to deliver scalable, compliant, and market-specific digital strategies.
Saudi Arabia’s HR minister says AI and automation will drive demand for tech roles while displacing traditional jobs, urging continuous upskilling amid economic, demographic, and climate shifts. Speaking at the Global Labor Market Conference, he highlighted youth employment challenges, green jobs growth, and Saudi Arabia’s private-sector expansion.
Manara and AWS launched the Cloud Catalyst Tech Forum in Riyadh, showcasing Saudi tech talent through a 1,000-participant GenAI hackathon and industry engagement. Backed by a $2.8 million training agreement, the initiative aims to upskill 5,000 engineers across MENA, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s cloud and AI workforce under Vision 2030.
Khuzam Digital Valley was launched as a dedicated digital infrastructure city spanning 200,000 square meters within the Khuzam destination. Developed by NHC Innovation, the project targets data centers, cloud, AI, and telecom firms, providing integrated infrastructure and build-ready land to support Saudi Arabia’s digital economy and specialized real estate growth.
Oman and Saudi Arabia discussed expanding cooperation across journalism, broadcasting, and digital media, with a focus on modern technologies and artificial intelligence. The talks underscored strong bilateral ties and examined how digital transformation can enhance content quality and strengthen the media’s role in awareness and public guidance.
Saudi consumers are rapidly shifting away from cash, with 67 percent now relying mainly on cards and mobile payments. Visa’s latest report shows digital methods gaining ground even in everyday spending, driven by convenience, security, and rewards, aligning closely with Vision 2030’s push toward a cashless economy.
Saudi Arabia is preparing to unveil three major tech strategies, including a plan to rank among the world’s top five AI training hubs. With its digital economy nearly doubling in nine years and major funds allocated to AI safety, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a global, responsible technology leader.
Saudi startup SDM is partnering with Cornell University to study the eye microbiome in space, using AI and orbital research to unlock new treatments for eye disease. Backed by Saudi institutions, the firm is already saving sight for thousands and advancing predictive healthcare through retinal scans.
Eight in ten payments in Saudi Arabia are now digital, with mobile transactions reaching 16 percent, according to Visa. Cash use continues to fall across dining and bill payments as consumers shift toward faster, safer card and mobile options, driven by convenience, security, and rewards.