Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Over 100 Pakistani IT companies have registered in Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030 collaboration, signaling a shift toward value-added trade in technology, minerals, and construction materials. The move deepens Pakistan’s integration with Saudi Arabia’s digital and economic transformation.
Saudi Arabia is emerging as one of the world’s most advanced markets for AI investment, with a 160% increase in AI spending and high readiness for large-scale implementation. Driven by Vision 2030, Saudi organisations are strengthening their data strategies, adopting unified observability platforms, and embracing open standards like OpenTelemetry to accelerate automation and performance excellence across industries.
Saudi Arabia is driving its industrial transformation under Vision 2030 through AI, IoT, and automation, targeting 4,000 smart factories and a 6.5% production growth. The upcoming Industrial Transformation Saudi Arabia 2025 will highlight the Kingdom’s Industry 4.0 ambitions.
ByteBridge has partnered with Naizak to form a Saudi-based data center joint venture focused on hyperscale and AI-driven growth. The move supports Vision 2030 by attracting investment and boosting digital infrastructure. ByteBridge also signed an MoU with South Korea’s FuriosaAI for AI-focused collaboration.
Saudi Arabia’s e-commerce spending via mada cards surged 79% in July to $7.96B, with online transactions up 65%. Driven by a youthful population, near-universal connectivity, and policy reforms, the Kingdom’s cashless economy is accelerating under Vision 2030, supported by tokenized wallets, Google Pay’s launch, and frictionless digital checkouts.
Saudi Arabia has unveiled new digital payment initiatives with Ant International, Google Pay, and Thunes. Key moves include cross-border QR payments via Alipay+ in 2026, Google Pay integration with the mada system, and real-time remittance services through barq and Thunes, advancing Vision 2030 goals of inclusivity and financial innovation.
Visa has launched the world’s first locally hosted Visa Acceptance Platform in Saudi Arabia, enabling faster, more secure digital payments. Supporting mada and digital wallets, the move aligns with SAMA regulations and Vision 2030, helping merchants boost efficiency, approval rates, and customer experience in the Kingdom’s cashless economy.
Pakistan’s SAPM on Digital Media Fahd Haroon met Saudi envoy Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki to discuss cooperation on Vision 2030, digital media, and innovation. Both sides reaffirmed strong bilateral ties and explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration in digital transformation and media strategies.
Egypt has unveiled its National Narrative for Economic Development, targeting 7% annual growth and greater private sector participation by 2030. The framework builds on the 2022 State Ownership Policy, focusing on competitiveness, green transition, high-productivity sectors, and restructuring state economic roles to strengthen long-term growth and job creation.
Saudi Arabia’s telecom sector is evolving from price and infrastructure competition to a customer experience-driven model. A New Metrics survey reveals STC’s strong market lead, but also highlights service quality, fair pricing, and trust as the key loyalty drivers. Digital adoption is strong, yet branches remain vital, underscoring the need for seamless hybrid experiences.