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 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.
Saudi Arabia has launched a digital system to manage Ramadan iftar at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque. Built with Ehsan and Nusuk, the platform enables online registration, secure payments, and permit issuance, ensuring transparent, efficient, and well-governed meal distribution.
Saudi AI firm HUMAIN and the National Infrastructure Fund have unveiled a $1.2bn financing framework to build up to 250MW of hyperscale AI data centers. The partnership aims to accelerate Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure, attract institutional capital, and support rising demand for advanced compute across regional and global markets.
Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit will showcase 11 startups at its third Demo Day in Riyadh on January 28, spanning AI, edtech, food tech, proptech, and more. Each company receives $100,000 and four months of intensive support, advancing Saudi Vision 2030’s drive for innovation and economic diversification.
Riyadh Air has launched Riyadh Cargo as a tech-first air freight business, embedding digital platforms, real-time tracking, and scalable operations across its wide-body fleet. The move supports Vision 2030, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub while enabling reliable, data-driven cargo growth alongside the airline’s expansion.
Saudi geospatial firm GBT has raised $1.3 million in pre-seed funding to scale its smart city and GeoAI solutions across the Kingdom. The round will fuel team growth, infrastructure, and next-generation products as demand rises under Vision 2030 and mega-projects like NEOM drive adoption of spatial intelligence.
Saudi Arabia’s investment minister told Davos the AI race is accelerating and no single nation will dominate. Emphasizing global diffusion and strategic optionality, he outlined the Kingdom’s energy-backed AI ambitions, cross-border data strategy, and early leadership on digital embassies to safeguard sovereignty in a multipolar AI future.
Saudia and the Saudi Tourism Authority helped bring 27 million international visitors to the Kingdom in 2025. A new “Spirit of Saudi” Boeing 787-9 will serve 25 global destinations in 2026, promoting Saudi hospitality and supporting Vision 2030 goals to reach 150 million tourists by 2030.