Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Mashreq has rolled out a fully digital home loan pre-approval for UAE buyers, enabling applicants to complete the process online in minutes. The service removes branch visits and paperwork, offering instant eligibility and faster access to financing in a competitive property market.
UAE authorities have launched the “Fast Track” mobile app, allowing travelers to complete immigration procedures before arrival. By pre-registering passport and biometric data, users bypass manual counters and clear Smart Gates in under 90 seconds. The system enhances efficiency, security, and passenger experience as traffic nears 140 million annually.
Bell Integration has expanded its UAE AI Training portfolio with custom Agentic AI programmes, enabling enterprises to build and deploy autonomous AI systems. Integrated into its AI Journey Success Programme, the initiative supports sectors including government, finance, healthcare, and logistics, strengthening internal capability across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
e& enterprise has partnered with Sergas to modernise energy operations through cybersecurity, AI-driven customer service, and intelligent communications. The collaboration introduces a next-generation SOC, omnichannel engagement, and automation, enabling Sergas to improve resilience, efficiency, and customer experience while embedding digital intelligence across its operations.
UMEX and SimTEX 2026 will be the largest editions yet, bringing 375 exhibitors from 38 countries to Abu Dhabi. With a strong focus on commercial, civil, and defence applications, the events position the UAE as a global hub for unmanned systems, robotics, AI, and autonomous technologies across logistics, mobility, energy, and security.
AI-powered cyberattacks are accelerating across the UAE, enabling deepfakes, automated phishing, and rapid data theft. Shorter detection windows heighten risks for banks, hospitals, and smart infrastructure, pushing organisations to adopt zero-trust models, secure-by-design systems, and stronger digital awareness.
UAE consumers are rapidly moving away from cash, with 68 percent now largely non-cash users, according to Visa. Everyday spending is dominated by cards and mobile payments, while cash lingers mainly in tips, remittances, and rent. Convenience, security, and rewards are accelerating the shift.
The UAE has introduced a far-reaching Child Digital Safety Law that applies to both local and foreign platforms targeting UAE users. With risk-based classification, age safeguards, and extraterritorial reach, the framework reshapes compliance for digital platforms and ISPs ahead of full enforcement in 2027.
An Egyptian-Emirati mobile cardiac hospital has arrived in Cairo, equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment units. The field hospital will deliver specialised heart care in underserved areas, strengthening emergency response and expanding access to critical services through cross-border healthcare cooperation.
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber opened ADSW 2026 by framing AI as a transformative force dependent on energy. He warned of surging data centre demand, urged pragmatic growth, and positioned the UAE as a long-term leader balancing hydrocarbons with renewables, anchored by Masdar’s global clean energy legacy.