Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed toured UMEX and SimTEX 2026 in Abu Dhabi, reviewing global advances in unmanned systems, AI, robotics, and simulation. He highlighted the exhibitions’ role in global knowledge exchange and in reinforcing the UAE’s position as a hub for future technologies across civil and defence sectors.
The UAE Space Agency has earned the 2026 ‘Great Place to Work’ certification, reflecting high employee trust, inclusion, and leadership standards. The recognition highlights the Agency’s focus on empowering local talent, fostering innovation, and building a sustainable, high-performance culture aligned with the UAE’s ambitious space goals.
DEWA has upgraded its water network operations with a patented smart platform enabling 24/7 remote monitoring and control. Built on open-source technology, the system improves data exchange, speeds decision-making, enhances resilience, and supports Dubai’s digital transformation and future-ready infrastructure goals.
The UAE has launched a fully digital service allowing parents to secure a two-year residence permit for newborns in 48 hours via the ICP app or portal. The paperless process reduces bureaucracy, eases HR workloads, and supports the government’s “Zero Bureaucracy” initiative, enabling faster, anywhere access for expatriate families.
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.