UAE telecom operators e& and du paid AED3.54 billion in federal royalty for H1 2024, down from AED3.73 billion in H1 2023. The new royalty guidelines exclude international profits, applying a 38% rate on UAE net profits and a 9% corporate tax rate.
UAE-based AI company G42 is collaborating with U.S. partners and the Emirati government to meet global AI standards amid concerns about ties to China. Following Microsoft’s $1.5 billion investment, U.S. lawmakers fear technology transfer to China. G42 emphasizes its commitment to complying with the highest global standards in AI development and deployment.
Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) reported a 62% increase in H1 net income to AED269 million, despite a 3% revenue drop. EBITDA surged 25%, driven by growth in key segments. Yahsat’s strong cash position and future contracts secure long-term financial stability amid strategic pivots and upcoming satellite launches.
Samsung Gulf Electronics has launched Samsung TV Plus in the UAE, a free ad-supported TV service available on 2022-2024 Samsung TV models. The platform offers diverse live channels and content, including news, sports, and entertainment, aiming to enhance customer experience with 24/7 access in both English and Arabic.
Bayanat, a leading AI-powered geospatial solutions provider, and South Korean autonomous technology firm Autonomous a2z, have announced a joint venture to develop and deploy autonomous systems in the UAE and the wider MENA region. This partnership was launched at the DRIFTx event in Abu Dhabi, showcasing a teleoperated vehicle from South Korea, and aligns with UAE’s technological innovation goals.
Tech leaders met in Ras Al Khaimah for the ‘Re: Sustainable IT Summit’ to discuss sustainable hardware practices. Organized by Circular Computing, the event emphasized remanufacturing as key to reducing e-waste and CO2 emissions. Circular Computing’s $33 million contract with the Irish Government underscores the viability of sustainable IT solutions.
The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Tawasal Information Technology to create a dedicated digital channel on the Tawasal SuperApp. This initiative aims to enhance communication between the business community in Abu Dhabi and global markets, offering advanced digital features to support business activities and promote economic development.
Early adoption of Generative AI (GenAI) is poised to significantly boost productivity and efficiency in the MENA region’s megaprojects, according to a new PMI report. High adopters of GenAI demonstrate enhanced performance, collaboration, and project management, positioning the UAE and GCC countries as leaders in this transformative technology.
Dubai Future Labs and Osaka University, under JST’s supervision, have partnered to establish a world-class research laboratory focused on cybernetic avatars. This collaboration supports Dubai’s R&D Programme, aiming to advance critical technologies and foster global innovation.
ADNOC has partnered with Etisalat to build the largest private 5G network in the energy sector, covering 11,000 square kilometers. The network will enhance IoT connectivity for over 12,000 wells and pipelines, using AI to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity. Expected completion is 2025, generating AED5.5 billion in the first five years.
