Sharjah launches AI hub, KSA rolls out logistics observatory, Mubadala and QIA back Whoop, Airwallex secures Malaysia payments licenses, India allows temporary relief for SEZ goods sold locally
Here’s a look at today's biggest tech stories in the MENA+:

- VARA introduces rules allowing for offering of crypto-linked exchange-traded derivatives
- Qashio, Dubai Chambers launch joint SME support program
- NYU Abu Dhabi researchers demonstrate AI can replicate key particle physics discoveries
- Sharjah launches AI Hub to support applications across various sectors
- ePointZero to acquire Traverse Midstream Partners for $2.25B

- Kingdom emerging as global gaming hub amid shifting landscape
- Saudi chambers unveil logistics observatory to support supply chain stability
- Saudia launches Google baggage location sharing feature
- Petrolube IPO gets regulatory green light
- Saudi Arabia Railways launches freight corridors between Gulf ports, Jordan

- 10 state-owned companies will temporarily list on the bourse over coming two weeks
- Dragon Oil to invest at least $3B in Egyptian exploration, production activity
- B.TECH's mylo introduces BNPL option with InstaPay integration
- Egypt and SAP to strengthen AI and cloud computing cooperation
- Egypt, Tanzania explore Dar es Salaam terminal partnership

- JazzCash reaches 1M RAAST QR merchants
- MoITT developing formal spectrum sharing policy
- Chinese EV firm GAC to expand to Pakistan with Lucky Motor partnership
- Pakistan, China propose five-point Middle East peace plan
- MoITT extends public services superapp proposal deadline amidst weak private sector interest
Other MENA+ Developments
- European defense tech startups ramp up deals, hiring to meet rising demand
- Cars24 launches novel live video test drive for used vehicles
- Mubadala, QIA back Whoop ahead of GCC wellness wearables expansion
- UAE lobbies UNSC for resolution authorizing military force to reopen Strait of Hormuz
- Morocco forms ministerial committee to respond to economic impact of war
Southeast Asia Developments
- Airwallex gets e-money issuing, Class A licenses for full Malaysia launch
- Indonesia gives firms three-year timeline to lift public float for transparency
- South Korea, Indonesia to cooperate on minerals, tech, finance
- WeRide, Grab launch fully public robotaxi service in Punggol
- Agoda launches regional tech center in Bangkok
India Developments
- India launches temporary relief for SEZ goods sold domestically
- US flags Indian preference for domestic satellites in DTH services as trade barrier
- IHC gets approvals for 41.5% stake in Sammaan Capital
- Eutelsat in discussions with Indian space agency for satellite launches
- Zetwerk files confidential draft papers for IPO