The Governance of Emerging Technologies Summit (GETS 2025) in Abu Dhabi focused on the UAE’s leadership in tech governance. Keynotes from ministers and experts highlighted AI, quantum computing, and digital transformation. The summit emphasized responsible innovation, global collaboration, and preparing the next generation for the digital future.
KPMG has launched the Global Tech Innovator Competition 2025 to identify and support the UAE’s top tech startups. The competition offers startups the opportunity to pitch their tech solutions, gain access to investors, and advance to global finals, further positioning the UAE as a tech innovation leader.
du has signed a 2 billion dirham ($544.54 million) agreement with Microsoft to build a hyperscale data center in the UAE. The center will support Microsoft’s cloud and AI services, driving digital transformation and job creation in AI, cybersecurity, and data engineering. The project aligns with the UAE’s economic diversification goals.
Mashreq’s SMASHREQ campaign, featuring an augmented reality padel game on TikTok, has gone viral, breaking engagement records. The game has captivated millions in the UAE and Egypt, establishing Mashreq’s position as a leader in the padel community while leveraging influencers and digital PR.
The UAE’s cloud computing market is set to grow from $12.84 billion in 2025 to $45.41 billion by 2030, driven by demand for scalable, flexible, and cost-efficient digital services. SMEs, government initiatives, and strategic partnerships are accelerating cloud adoption, making it essential for business agility, innovation, and digital transformation.
Omran Sharaf, UAE’s assistant foreign minister for advanced science and technology, warned at the AI, Security, and Ethics Summit in Geneva about the risks of AI falling into the wrong hands. He stressed the importance of implementing controls and global cooperation to prevent misuse by non-state actors and militants.
Telr has secured a Retail Payment Services License from the Central Bank of the UAE, enabling it to expand merchant acquiring and payment aggregation solutions within the UAE. This achievement strengthens Telr’s position as a leader in digital payments, providing secure and innovative solutions for businesses across the MENA region.
A recent report reveals that while 94% of UAE students use AI tools for studying, many face stress due to concerns about incorrect information, plagiarism, and data security. With a focus on AI literacy and ethical use, schools aim to reduce anxiety and ensure equitable access to these tools for all students.
Apple Pay is expanding in the UAE and Qatar by adding support for new card networks, including UAE’s Jaywan and Qatar’s Himyan. This will allow more customers in both countries to use Apple Pay for secure mobile transactions, enhancing the service’s reach and accessibility in the region.
Virgin Mobile UAE has introduced electric motorcycles for its delivery riders in collaboration with Axiom Telecom, offering an eco-friendly alternative that supports the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030. The initiative aims to reduce emissions, enhance sustainability in operations, and contribute to Dubai’s environmental goals while providing a smart transportation solution.
