UAE Cabinet approves framework for agentic AI adoption, Aramco and Pasqal launch KSA's first quantum computer, Omantel launches new AI center, Thailand plans new data center power rules, Apple Pay delays India launch
Here’s a look at today's biggest tech stories in the MENA+:
- AD Ports acquires German freight forwarder MBS
- Cabinet approves framework for agentic AI adoption across ministries
- Dubai Insurance to insure Dubai Taxi's robotaxi fleet in landmark deal
- Wego introduces stablecoin payments with Triple-A partnership
- Deem Finance, Yusr partner to expand embedded finance, BNPL solutions
- Aramco, Pasqal launch Saudi Arabia's first quantum computer
- Qiddiya to deploy Google-enabled AI factory, agentic AI, unified data platform
- PIF studying sale of minority stake in Newcastle United
- Saudi Film Commission boosts incentives to 60% headline rate
- Power Metallic forms JV with Amaar Mining to expand presence
- COPAD Pharma plans IPO, to expand into consumer health
- Egypt targets $6B in 2026 cross-border digital exports, records $5.2B in 2025
- Elsewedy Electric plans additional $1.3B investment in Algeria
- Egypt to develop Borg El Arab dry port, logistics zone
- FRA aims to boost youth financial literacy to support market development
- Provinces asked to generate $1.4B in additional taxes next year under IMF agreements
- Govt discussing new blockchain-based bonds
- First Digital Takaful gets SECP's first Shariah digital takaful operator license
- Govt weighs major telecom tax relief, lower fiber duties to support 5G expansion
- S&P says Pakistan faces highest macro stress risk from prolonged Iran war
Other MENA+ Developments
- OIA attracted $4.1B in FDI in 2025, completed 24 divestments since 2022
- Investcorp Capital acquires US industrial real estate assets worth $200M+
- Libyan Islamic Bank partners AFS to modernize payments
- Tunisia posts 30% increase in FDI in 2025, marking strongest year in decade
- Omantel launches new AI center, startup program
Southeast Asia Developments
- Singapore to certify AI testers with new IMDA subsidiary
- Thailand plans new data center power rules
- Clicx prepares to become Thailand's first digital bank with June launch
- Grab's GXBank expands Malaysia MSME financing services
- Globe unveils major AI-driven infrastructure expansion in Philippines
India Developments
- Finance Ministry directs state-backed entities to shift to EVs as part of cost-cutting measures
- Reliance in talks with CATL for renewables drive amid Chinese tech curbs
- Apple Pay delays India launch amidst stalled bank negotiations
- Court tells Apple to 'cooperate' in antitrust case, asks CCI to not pass a final order until July
- Incentives dip for delivery riders despite higher costs
