Exclusive 'Cloud First' policies give Saudi Arabia, UAE edge in AI race: Amazon exec In March 2024, AWS announced plans to invest $5.3 billion in Saudi Arabia to launch a cloud infrastructure region in the kingdom by 2026. By Jack Dutton In Bristol, reporting on regional business, climate change, AI, tech
How UAE AI firm's past China links stalled this US chipmaker's IPO Cerebras Systems executives had been hoping that the Trump administration would fast-track the national security review that has left the chipmaker’s initial public offering in limbo for five months, Reuters reported Tuesday. United Arab Emirates
UAE seals cloud deal with Microsoft, Core42 as Sheikh Tahnoon visits US The deal follows Microsoft's $1.5 billion investment last year in G42 to accelerate AI development. United Arab Emirates
UAE’s Sheikh Tahnoon makes first US visit since Trump reelection: What to know The UAE's influential national security advisor, who chairs some of the country's most important funds and firms, will reportedly meet with White House officials and business leaders including Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. United Arab Emirates
Analysis US stock plunge poses dilemmas for Gulf investors while exposing PIF, Mubadala risks By Samuel Wendel In Washington, DC, reporting on regional business and tech
Interview As AI superpowers clash, Saudi tech diplomat pushes collaboration over competition Deemah AlYahya Secretary General, Digital Cooperation Organization
Fundraising by Israeli startups expected to decline during 2022 A survey of Israeli startup companies shows a significant drop in fundraising. Israel
Tel Aviv Stock Exchange continues to reach historic highs The TA 125 index’s growth is being led by banks and not Israel’s large tech sector. Israel
Robots to help Muslim pilgrims at holy sites in Saudi Arabia The robots will explain prayer rituals in Mecca and Medina in multiple languages, according to Saudi religious authorities. Saudi Arabia
Israel tests innovative, high-powered laser defense system Israel advances with the development of a laser-based missile interceptor system that should significantly change the balance of powers in the region. Israel
OPEC loans $100 million to Morocco to promote financial inclusivity Financial technology (fintech) is expanding across the Middle East and enabling more people to use financial tools. But some cultural barriers remain. Morocco
Egypt ramps up cyber, data security capabilities Egyptian government agencies are coordinating efforts to be prepared for future cyberattacks. Egypt
Saudi Aramco pursues diversification with artificial intelligence center The Saudi energy giant is flush with cash from oil sales abroad. Saudi Arabia
Report: One third of Israelis and Emiratis own cryptocurrency Both Israel and the UAE have emerged as centers of cryptocurrency in the Middle East. Israel
Uber faces new competition in Egypt New ride-sharing competitors are challenging Uber’s longtime monopoly. Egypt
Intel increases footprint in Israel with acquisition of Granulate The Silicon Valley computer chip manufacturer has acquired two major Israeli tech companies this year. Israel
Israeli startup to 3D print salmon The Jerusalem-based investment platform OurCrowd held an event on 3D printing, featuring several Israeli companies as well as popular Arab-Israeli vlogger Nas Daily. Israel
Electric SUV race coming to Saudi Arabia’s NEOM Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has prioritized investing in new types of sports as part of his Vision 2030 initiative. Saudi Arabia
