Technology

Iran conducts record space launch with largest-ever payload

Iran's space program has previously concerned the United States and its allies, who claim that its developments go hand-in-hand with those of its ballistic missile program.

Iran

Saudi PIF trims Nintendo stake from 7.5% to 6.3% in second cut of month

A filing with Japan’s Finance Ministry said the move follows the sale of more than 17 million Nintendo shares, which concluded in October.

Saudi Arabia

Analysis

How new US AI framework could impact UAE, Saudi ambitions

The framework comes as the UAE has deepened its AI ties with the United States in recent months over a series of visits to Washington by senior Emirati officials.

By Jack Dutton , Samuel Wendel

Analysis

What UAE's Edge expansion into space means for country's military industry

Abu Dhabi has recently seen a significant boost in its domestic defense and aerospace capabilities, thanks to its nation-based conglomerate, EDGE. This month, the group launched its new space company, FADA, marking a milestone in enhancing the Emirati’s status in the strategic space sector.

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance

Middle East startups see 34% uptick in global investors

Data firm MAGNiTT reported Tuesday that the Middle East far outperformed other markets and regions, including Africa and Southeast Asia, which saw steeper drops.

Saudi Arabia

UAE’s Sheikh Tahnoon discusses AI, tech with Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk in US

His meetings came after UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed met earlier this week with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

United Arab Emirates

In White House visit, UAE leader seeks cooperation on Gaza and AI

UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will meet with President Joe Biden in his first official visit to Washington since 2017.

United Arab Emirates

Analysis

Hezbollah’s exploding pagers to fuel widespread MidEast consumer electronic fears

Brazen Israel-linked attacks could presage a new age of warfare, where the Internet of Things and everyday tech can be weaponized at scale.

By Samuel Wendel

In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech

Analysis

Pager attacks shake Hezbollah; are they prelude to Israel-Lebanon deal?

Despite US warnings about the unintended consequences of war with Hezbollah, Israel's leaders claim the extent and intensity of the fire can be controlled.

By Ben Caspit

In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense

Israel’s Tower Semiconductor, Adani Group invest $10B in Indian microchip project

India is trying to position itself as a leading microchip producer, encouraging foreign companies to set up manufacturing facilities in the country.

Israel

Analysis

How UAE-China ties expand around Tianjin chief visit, ADNOC deal

Diplomatic and business traffic is gaining steam between Dubai and Beijing after a first-of-its-kind think-tank forum, a high-level welcome for a Tianjin official to the UAE, and a major deal with ADNOC this week.

By Joyce Karam

In Washington, DC, reporting on regional geopolitics, China in the Middle East

Middle East fintech funding sees 650% spike in 2020-2023

Fintech is one of the most funded and transacted industries across the MENA region, according to a MAGNiTT report, accounting for 24% of all venture investment in the region in the first half of 2024.

Saudi Arabia