Google has announced a range of new AI-powered models, products, and features for its Gemini and Search services at the annual Google I/O developer event. These updates aim to provide enhanced AI assistance to users worldwide, making it more intelligent, agentic, and personalized. Among the key announcements relevant to the Middle East and North Africa...
Abu Dhabi’s technology investment fund MGX is collaborating with US chipmaker Nvidia and French companies to develop Europe’s largest artificial intelligence data center, located near Paris. This significant initiative was announced at the Choose France summit held in Versailles. The project involves a 1.4 gigawatt-capacity campus and includes partnerships with France-backed investment firm Bpifrance and...
Abu Dhabi’s International Holding Company (IHC) has introduced a new online marketplace that allows developers to purchase artificial intelligence (AI) chips. This platform aims to provide access to essential AI hardware and software, facilitating advancements in technology for developers in the region. The launch of this marketplace is part of IHC’s broader strategy to enhance...
Mastercard has officially launched its first Cyber Resilience Center in the Middle East, located in Riyadh, as part of a partnership with Riyad Bank. This initiative aims to enhance Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity infrastructure by bringing together key players from the financial sector to collaborate on building a secure commerce and payment ecosystem in the Kingdom....
Beyti, a subsidiary of Almarai Company, has secured a sustainable linked loan agreement valued at EGP 1.80 billion (approximately $36 million) from HSBC Bank. This financing aligns with Beyti’s commitment to advancing sustainability initiatives, reducing its carbon footprint, and enhancing resource efficiency. Chris Abboud, General Manager of Beyti, highlighted that the company has successfully localized...
Orbitworks, the UAE’s satellite manufacturing venture, has unveiled Altair, a constellation of 10 Earth observation satellites that will leverage artificial intelligence. The assembly and integration of these satellites will take place in Abu Dhabi, with production expected to begin in the second half of 2025. The satellites are scheduled for launch in 2026, aimed at...
A research arm of the Abu Dhabi government, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), has unveiled a new Arabic-language artificial intelligence model named Falcon Arabic. This initiative aims to secure the UAE’s technological advantage over competitors in the Middle East. Falcon Arabic was trained using a diverse dataset that includes Modern Standard Arabic as well as...
Abu Dhabi is preparing to unveil Aion Sentia, the world’s first cognitive AI city, designed to enhance daily life by learning and adapting to its residents’ needs. Set for completion in 2027, Aion Sentia aims to go beyond the features of traditional smart cities by integrating systems that anticipate user requirements in real-time. For instance,...
Abu Dhabi’s G42 has partnered with the US-based World Wide Technology (WWT) to launch a new initiative called Forge42. This initiative aims to position the United Arab Emirates as a leading exporter of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Forge42 will enable companies in the Emirates to develop technology that is ready for export, thereby enhancing the...
Aldar has announced that it will be the first developer in the Middle East and North Africa region to use hydrogen-based steel rebar in a construction project. This initiative is part of their plan to build Abu Dhabi’s first net zero carbon mosque in Sustainable City Yas Island. The mosque will feature a floor area...