Saudi Arabia’s Global Image Improves, Fueled by Vision 2030 and Economic Reforms

• Landmark Private Collection of 25 motor cars honors Phantom’s centenary
• The most complex and technologically ambitious Private Collection to date 
• A century of stories: interior celebrates pivotal figures, notable clients, significant models, journeys, places and moments that defined Phantom’s first 100 years
• Rear seats in high-resolution printed fabric, developed with a fashion atelier, completed with 160,000 stitches 
• Laser-etched front seats depict hand-sketched linework inspired by Phantom’s heritage
• Most intricate Rolls-Royce woodwork ever introduces three Rolls-Royce firsts: 3D marquetry, 3D ink layering, and 24-carat gold leafing
• The left-hand side front door recalls the epic 4,500-mile journey of the first-ever Goodwood-era Phantom, which crossed the Australian continent from Perth
• Spirit of Ecstasy in solid gold, hallmarked and enameled, based on 1925 casting
• Bespoke Gallery recalls pages of a book with abstracted text formed in aluminum

“The Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary Private Collection is our tribute to 100 years of the world’s most revered luxury item. This uncompromising work of art uses the meticulously engineered Phantom VIII as the canvas to tell the story of Phantom’s remarkable life and the people who shaped it – from the visionaries within Rolls-Royce to the owners who helped create its legend. For a century, the Phantom nameplate has expressed the pinnacle of Rolls-Royce’s abilities. To honor that legacy, this extraordinarily ambitious Private Collection introduces new techniques and is the result of over 40,000 hours of work, culminating in a motor car which reaffirms Phantom’s status as a symbol of ambition, artistic possibility, and historical gravitas.”

Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

“Having the privilege to pay a Bespoke tribute to the Phantom nameplate is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Seizing on the significance of this moment, a record number of designers spent a year immersed in the motor car’s rich history, uncovering the stories that shaped its legend. Their research was distilled into 77 motifs, each capturing a defining moment in Phantom’s journey and expressed with levels of detail we have never attempted before. The result is a true collective work of art that celebrates the skill, ambition and imagination of everyone at the Home of Rolls-Royce, and the profound respect the marque’s creatives have for this extraordinary motor car.”

Martina Starke, Head of Bespoke Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

“Phantom Centenary is the most intricate and technologically ambitious Private Collection ever undertaken by the designers, engineers, production specialists and craftspeople of our Bespoke Collective. Developed over three years, this project uses new techniques to blend metal, wood, paint, fabric, leather, and embroidery into a single, stunning composition. The surfaces read like a book revealing 100 years of Phantom’s history, rich with symbolic references for clients to admire and decipher over many years to come.”

Phil Fabre de la Grange, Head of Bespoke, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

For 100 years, Phantom has been recognized as the ultimate symbol of success and discernment, chosen by the world’s most influential figures. As this legendary nameplate celebrates its 100th anniversary, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars pays tribute with the Phantom Centenary Private Collection, limited to 25 examples.

The Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective of designers, engineers and artisans poured their skill and imagination into what has become their magnum opus. They immersed themselves in Phantom’s world, studying the spirit and identity of each generation from the 1920s to today. They explored defining owners, pivotal figures within Rolls-Royce, the places where Phantom was conceived and built, and the events that defined its times.  These influences, first captured as 77 hand-sketched motifs, are woven into the Phantom Centenary Private Collection through stunningly crafted archival references, creating a statement that honors Phantom’s past, defines its present, and projects the principles that will shape the nameplate’s next 100 years and beyond. 

Each historic moment is brought to life through advanced artisanal techniques, many conceived specially for this rare and collectable tribute. Inside, couturier-designed textiles, sketch-like embroidery, laser-etched leather, and groundbreaking woodcraft — including 3D marquetry, gilding, and 3D ink layering — tell Phantom’s story in stunning, intricate detail. Outside, the grille is crowned with a unique Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, reinterpreted from the very first to grace a Phantom, and presented in solid gold to mark this milestone. 

EXTERIOR: AN ELEGANT, BESPOKE STATEMENT

Evoking the timeless elegance of a black-and-white film star, the Phantom Centenary Private Collection’s exterior recalls the golden age of Hollywood, when Phantom graced premieres, carried screen icons, and became a symbol of the era’s glamour. The motor car is finished in a Bespoke two-tone paint, its long-sided application a nod to the flowing silhouette of 1930s Phantoms. The side body is presented in Super Champagne Crystal over Arctic White, with the upper body in Super Champagne Crystal over Black. The specially developed finish gives the exterior an extraordinary metallic shimmer, achieved by infusing the clear coat with iridescent particles of crushed glass. For this celebratory Private Collection, Rolls-Royce paint specialists replaced the clear flakes with champagne-colored particles and doubled the quantity to create spellbinding depth. 

This timeless treatment is crowned with a unique reimagining of the Spirit of Ecstasy. Using the first Spirit of Ecstasy ever fitted to a Phantom as their reference, designers created an homage to this landmark figurine, cast in solid 18-carat gold for strength, then plated in 24-carat gold for a flawless, tarnish-resistant finish. The piece was then presented to the Hallmarking & Assay Office in London, where it received a specially developed ‘Phantom Centenary’ hallmark.

The base of the figurine is finished with hand-poured white vitreous enamel delicately inscribed with the collection’s name.  For the first time, the ‘RR’ Badge of Honor – positioned on the front, rear, and each side of the motor car – is presented in 24-carat gold and white enamel. 

Resolving the exterior is a set of Phantom disc wheels, each engraved with 25 lines – honoring the 25 motor cars within the collection and, together, making 100 lines to celebrate the centenary year.

INTERIOR: IMMERSED IN THE PHANTOM LEGEND

A century of Phantom’s stories elegantly unfold across the many canvases of the Private Collection’s interior, through magnificent archival references – some immediately recognizable, others revealed over time.

In homage to Phantoms of the past, Phantom Centenary’s interior combines textiles and leather, recalling the marque’s foundational years when the chauffeur’s front seat was finished in hardwearing leather and the rear cabin in luxurious fabrics. This contrast is a subtle reminder that Phantom has always balanced both authority at the wheel and absolute serenity in the passenger suite.

REAR SEATS: TAILORING EXCELLENCE

The rear seats of Phantom Centenary are inspired by the famed 1926 ‘Phantom of Love’, commissioned with handwoven Aubusson tapestries. The artwork on the seats unfolds across three distinct layers of storytelling. The first is the background, rendered in high-resolution print, showing places and artefacts from Phantom’s history – from the marque’s original Conduit Street premises in London to Henry Royce’s oil paintings of Southern France. The second layer, also printed in high resolution, portrays great Phantoms of the past in finely drawn detail. The third and uppermost layer is formed of embroideries, abstractly representing seven significant owners from every generation of Phantom. 

This complex fabric was developed over 12 months in partnership with a fashion atelier, marking its first commission beyond the world of haute couture. To meet Rolls-Royce’s exacting longevity, tactility and aesthetic standards, the high-resolution printing process was perfected with specially adapted inks and techniques devised exclusively for the Phantom Centenary Private Collection. 

The high-resolution printed fabric is completed with embroideries, designed to have a uniquely hand-drawn quality.  Described by the Bespoke Collective as “sketching with thread”, this embroidery process captures the expression of a pencil line in textile form. To outline and define each image, artisans applied Golden Sands thread in sketch-like, irregular stitches, creating the illusion of lines floating lightly above the surface. Texture and depth were added with Seashell thread, applied in high-density stitches. Across the full composition, this intricate craftwork amounts to more than 160,000 stitches. 

The finished artwork spans 45 individual panels, each precisely aligned and fitted around the curvatures of the seats at the Home of Rolls-Royce: a process inspired by Savile Row tailoring techniques. The result is the most intricate seat composition ever created by Rolls-Royce.

“Conceived as a contemporary interpretation of a handwoven tapestry, the rear seats tell Phantom’s story through carefully curated details, captured in textiles and embroidery.  Every embroidered element was digitally re-drawn by artisans who selected specific stitch application for every stroke. For example, in the horse motif, we used spaced stitches to recreate the hair texture, then dense stitching to define the muscle. These fine details required extraordinary precision to get right: one motif went through 24 iterations before we were satisfied. This reflects the deep personal pride we felt in creating a fitting tribute to the Phantom nameplate, and the responsibility we all share in carrying its legacy forward.”

FRONT SEATS: A DESIGN STATEMENT IN THE DRIVER’S QUARTERS

The leather on the front seats features laser-etched artwork based on hand drawings by a Bespoke designer, evoking the draftsman’s craft. Among the motifs are symbolic details that elegantly carry the extraordinary weight of Phantom’s 100-year legacy, from a rabbit design – a nod to “Roger Rabbit,” the codename for the relaunch of Rolls-Royce in 2003 – to a seagull, the codename for the 1923 Phantom I prototype.

ANTHOLOGY GALLERY: A STORY OF DISTINCTION TOLD OVER 100 YEARS 

The centrepiece of the Phantom Centenary Private Collection is the Anthology Gallery. This dramatic composition features 50 3D-printed, vertically brushed aluminium ‘fins’ interlaced like pages of a book. Each fin is composed of sculpted letters that can be read from both sides, forming quotes drawn from a century of press acclaim. 

The sculpture is subtly lit by shifting illuminations that recall the shimmer of falling fireworks. The brushed edges of each fin create a play of reflections, changing with the viewer’s moving perspective. 

WOODWORK: A SCULPTURAL STATEMENT

The Private Collection features the most intricate woodwork ever created for a Rolls-Royce. Developed over a year and rendered in stained Blackwood, the door panels depict Phantom’s most significant and formative journeys. Within each composition, geographical maps, winding routes, sweeping landscapes, floral elements, and depictions of experimental motor cars intersect to form an artwork alive with Phantom’s heritage. 

The rear doors portray the coastline of Le Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, where Sir Henry Royce spent his winters. The right-hand side front door shows the landscape of West Wittering, home to his summer residence, just eight miles from today’s Home of Rolls-Royce. The left-hand side front door recalls the epic 4,500-mile journey of the first-ever Goodwood-era Phantom, which crossed the Australian continent from Perth. 

Each composition combines 3D multi-directional marquetry, laser etching, 3D ink layering and gold-leafing to create dimension and texture. Etched motifs, which include maps, landscapes, flowers and trees, are applied onto the wood at three different depths using a laser. The roads representing these journeys gleam in 24-carat gold, crafted from squares of gold leaf just 0.1 micrometres thick. Each road is painstakingly crafted, cut and placed.

The rear doors also incorporate depictions of flora native to Southern France — pine, cypress, ferns and palm — while a section of the rear passenger door recreates one of Sir Henry Royce’s original oil paintings of the region, translated from canvas to wood. The exact locations of Royce’s homes — Villa Mimosa in the South of France and Elmstead in West Wittering — are marked with a single gold-leaf dot just 2.76 mm in diameter.

“We drew on an extraordinary range of sources – original texts, diaries, photographs and paintings – to create a composition that weaves together many threads of Phantom’s story. New technology developed for this project, including 3D ink layering, allowed us to add details at a scale never before possible – some just 0.13 mm in height – from a boat sailing across the sea to location names on a map. It’s a privilege to have the time and technology to realise moments in Phantom’s history with the detail and precision the nameplate deserves.” 

Katrin Lehmann, Bespoke Color and Material Designer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

The wooden surfaces on the doors transform into masterfully embroidered leather panels. The 24-carat gold ‘roads’ continue as golden thread embroidery; details of the maps and landscapes are stitched in black, echoing the etched details on the veneered section of the doors. 

The woodwork is completed with depictions of the original 1925 Phantom I and the current Phantom VIII, individually etched on the rear picnic tables. The models are mirrored in embroidery on the leather-finished backs of the picnic tables – another gesture uniting past and present.  

The Piano Black veneer is infused with gold dust, echoing the central rotary dial, also plated with 24-carat gold. 

A GOLDEN LEGACY

The magnificent engineering masterpiece that is the 6.75-litre V12 engine is celebrated with a specially designed cover, finished in Arctic White. The cover has been detailed with 24-carat gold, honouring the effortless power that has helped define Phantom’s modern legend and success. 

PHANTOM’S STORY IN STARLIGHT 

A subtly animated and embroidered Starlight Headliner captures moments from Phantom’s history in 440,000 stitches.  Its design includes references to the mulberry tree under which Henry Royce was photographed in his garden at West Wittering, seated with two close colleagues: Charles L. Jenner, the marque’s Chief Engine Draftsman, and Ernest Hives, the head of Rolls-Royce’s experimental department. Drawing on this moment, the Bespoke Collective sought to create an atmosphere of inspiration so that clients seated beneath the Starlight Headliner might experience, as Royce once did, their own flashes of imagination and possibility. 

The scene unfolds to include the distinctive square-crowned trees in the courtyard of the marque’s Goodwood headquarters. The honeybees – a reference to the 250,000 residents of the Rolls-Royce Apiary – are in full flight, perhaps towards the Phantom Rose, grown exclusively on the grounds of the Home of Rolls-Royce. Interwoven within the constellations are quiet tributes to great Phantoms of the past – among them a bird motif representing Sir Malcolm Campbell’s Phantom II, known as the ‘Bluebird’. Hidden amongst the mulberry leaves is a reference to the locking mechanism on the vault door at ‘The Bank’ – the secret 1990s design studio where the first Phantom of the Goodwood era was drafted.

AN UNFORGETTABLE HERITAGE, IN MOTION

For the designers, engineers and artisans who created the Phantom Centenary Private Collection, this motor car was a once-in-a-generation responsibility. What has been achieved reflects the same spirit that gave rise to Phantom itself: the marque’s relentless pursuit of excellence and ambition to craft the best motor car in the world.

Hilton announced it has surpassed the milestone of 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia –  representing a combined investment of USD $8 billion from hotel owners and investors into Hilton’s growing portfolio, and underscoring the company’s long-term commitment to supporting Vision 2030 by expanding its footprint and delivering world-class hospitality throughout the Kingdom. The announcement was made ahead of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Saudi Arabia, a global forum that convenes world leaders, policymakers, and investors to discuss the future of global investment and economic trends.

With a multi-brand rollout across 14 of its award-winning brands, Hilton plans to add more than 22,000 rooms to Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving hospitality landscape. The pipeline of hotels is expected to create more than 15,000 jobs – at least half of which will be filled by Saudi nationals – further contributing to the Kingdom’s economic development. 

Carlos Khneisser, chief development officer, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said: “Saudi Arabia is witnessing incredible momentum, with travel at the heart of this transformation. The Kingdom welcomed a record 32 million tourists this summer and we’re proud to be supporting this vision as the country works toward its goal of attracting 150 million visitors annually by 2030. As we exceed 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline, and with nearly two-thirds of that pipeline already under construction, we remain committed to introducing new brands and expanding into more regional cities in line with the growing number of travelers visiting the Kingdom every year.”

Hilton Bolsters Luxury Presence

Hilton continues to expand its luxury footprint across Saudi Arabia, with a series of standout developments that reflect the Kingdom’s growing demand for high-end hospitality. 

Among the most anticipated openings is Conrad Riyadh Laysen Valley, slated to open in 2026, and bringing the brand’s signature elegance to one of the capital’s most prestigious developments. This momentum has been further driven by strategic signings, including a Waldorf Astoria and a Conrad at The Avenues – Riyadh, a Waldorf Astoria in Diriyah Gate, and Madinah’s first Waldorf Astoria. 

Hilton is also partnering with Rua Al Madinah Holding to launch three properties in the holy city, including a Conrad Hotels & Resorts property, as well as collaborating with Dan Co, a PIF subsidiary, to introduce an LXR agritourism resort in Al Ahsa.

Launch of Tempo by Hilton in Middle East & Africa 

Marking the regional debut of Hilton’s contemporary lifestyle brand, Tempo by Hilton Riyadh Al Narjis is expected to open in 2029. Developed in partnership with Al Theeb Hospitality, the hotel will feature 135 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and a range of amenities including a lobby café and restaurant, a fitness room, and two meeting rooms. Located along King Salman Road, the hotel will offer convenient access to residential communities, commercial zones, and major business districts. 

Tempo by Hilton is designed for ambitious, modern travelers, offering purposefully designed spaces, wellness-focused amenities, and a contemporary experience that empowers guests to maintain their routines while on the move.

Hilton Accelerates Saudi Arabia Growth

Hilton continues to strengthen its presence across both established and emerging regional cities in the Kingdom, with new signings in Abha, Buraidah, Dammam, Riyadh and Jeddah. The developments span Hilton’s lifestyle, full-service, and premium economy brands, further re-affirming its commitment to deliver a diverse range of reliable hotels across Saudi Arabia. 

Hijla Hotel Abha, Curio Collection by Hilton

Signed in partnership with Kayan Al Musanada, Hijla Hotel Abha, Curio Collection by Hilton is expected to open in 2027 with 151 stylish guest rooms and suites. The hotel will feature an all-day restaurant with terrace, a lobby café, indoor and kids’ pools, a fitness center, and versatile event spaces including a hall and six meeting rooms. Reflected throughout the hotel, the design will draw inspiration from Aseer’s rich heritage and natural landscapes to create a locally inspired guest experience.

Located just minutes from Abha International Airport, the hotel will form part of a mixed-use development featuring commercial offices, medical clinics, retail stores, entertainment venues and a variety of dining options.

The property joins Hilton’s ongoing development in Abha’s The Point project which includes Hilton The Point Residences and Canopy by Hilton The Point.

DoubleTree by Hilton Riyadh Al Narjis

In collaboration with First Projects Co., a subsidiary of First Projects Holding, DoubleTree by Hilton Riyadh Al Narjis is set to open its doors in 2029. This premier hotel will offer 197 elegantly designed guest rooms and suites, strategically located on Anas Bin Malik Road. Its prime location places guests at the heart of Riyadh’s dynamic development, ensuring unparalleled connectivity and exceptional neighborhood value. The hotel offers a complete “co-live” experience, seamlessly connecting guests to an adjacent, professional co-working and meeting facility. This ensures that business delegates and extended-stay professionals enjoy an unmatched blend of premium hospitality and dedicated workspace convenience in North Riyadh.

DoubleTree by Hilton Buraidah

Hilton will bring the signature DoubleTree by Hilton hospitality to Qassim’s capital with DoubleTree by Hilton Buraidah, opening in 2028 in partnership with Abdulrahman Bin Saleh Alshetaiwi LLC. The hotel will offer 125 contemporary guest rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant with outdoor terrace, a lobby café, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. Flexible event spaces will include a multi-function hall, boardrooms, and meeting rooms. The location provides easy access to government institutions and cultural landmarks such as King Khaled Cultural Centre and Buraidah Museum.

Spark by Hilton Dammam 

Hilton has signed an agreement with Medokhil Group to develop Spark by Hilton Dammam. Located on King Fahd Road, the hotel will include 160 comfortable guest rooms with easy access to the city’s commercial and retail hubs, including Ibn Khaldoun Plaza. Designed to deliver reliable essentials and friendly service, the property will offer a simple, inspired design with bright lobby spaces, comfortable guest rooms and a complimentary breakfast.

Additional Recent Signings and Upcoming Openings

Hilton continues to expand its hospitality offerings across the Kingdom, including the debut of its premium economy brand in the Middle East with Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah, slated to open next year, as well as its first Tapestry Collection – one of Hilton’s lifestyle collection brands – in the Kingdom with Diyar Ajwa, Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Madinah, which is set to open later this year. Both hotels are being developed with longstanding partners Al Musbah Group. 

Further signings include a Curio Collection by Hilton branded residences in Riyadh, part of the OSUS Eye development, and two Curio Collection by Hilton resorts in Al Ahsa as part of Hilton’s partnership with Dan Co. Hilton also continues to grow its full service and focused service portfolio with new developments across Jeddah, Madinah, and Jizan.

These latest signings mark another step in Hilton’s growth journey to support Saudi Vision 2030 and deliver world-class hospitality across the Kingdom, where the company currently operates 21 hotels with another 83 in the pipeline.

The Saudi Health Information Management Association (SHIMA) has announced the SHIMA Annual Conference & Expo 2025, the largest upcoming platform dedicated to advancing the adoption, innovation, and integration of healthcare information management systems in Saudi Arabia, the MENA region, and globally.

The event will have King Saud University as Co-Host and Knowledge Partner, and will be supported by NEOM as a Strategic Partner.

Saudi Health Information Management Association (SHIMA), a not-for-profit professional association, has been promoting and advancing the Health Information Management (HIM) and Health Informatics professions, building a robust ecosystem for future healthcare in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The event aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, showcasing the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a global leader in digital health innovation.

The two-day conference will offer an exclusive platform for dialogue, thought leadership, and knowledge exchange in healthcare information management, providing attendees and participants with actionable knowledge and strategic connections.

Our onboarded speakers so far,

• Hussein Albish – President, Saudi Health Information Management Association (SHIMA)
• Sallyanne Wissmann – Chief Executive Officer, HIMAA
• Dr. Mahmoud Alyamani – Health, Wellbeing & Biotech Sector Head, NEOM
• Vicki Bennett, President – IFHIMA
• Dr. Louise Schaper – Founder of HISA and the Digital Health Institute
• Dr. Julia Rehman – Founder & Principal Consultant, Kota Kompany
• Dr. Laila Yahya Alhubaishi – Consultant, United Arab Emirates University
• Jobin Jose – Co-founder, HealthOrbit AI
• Dr. Waleed Al-Suhaymi – CDI Unit Supervisor, Dammam Health Network
• Atheer Alharbi – AI Expert – Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, KSA
• Eng. Muhammad Mudassar – Head of Data & AI Health & Wellbeing, NEOM

Numerous other distinguished speakers are expected to join us in the upcoming days.

Furthermore, the event will also organize a one-day pre-conference workshop on November 17th, which will include topics like AI in Clinical Coding Guidelines, Role of Health Information Management (HIM) in Health Sector Transformation Program (HSTP), Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI) Speciality Session, AI in Revenue Cycle Management (RCM), and When Care Stops: Cybersecurity, Trust, and the Future of Patient Safety.

The exhibition will feature live demonstrations, pilot projects, and interactive showcases. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the real-world performance of technologies within healthcare environments, providing solution providers with direct access to decision-makers and influencers. For leaders and purchasers in healthcare, it will serve as a marketplace to explore new innovations and contemporary systems.

Event Highlights:

• Keynotes and interactive sessions involving top policymakers, healthcare executives, IT leaders, innovators, academics, and global and regional experts
• Expert panel discussions on ICD-11, revenue cycle management, AI, cybersecurity, virtual health records, and more
• Technical workshops and hands-on learning experiences
• Exhibition featuring Next-generation Health Information Systems (HIS), Electronic Medical Records (EMR), Advanced coding, documentation, and reimbursement solutions, Revenue cycle management (RCM) systems and other breakthrough innovations
• Exclusive networking and partnership-building opportunities with policymakers and decision-makers

The SHIMA Annual Conference & Expo 2025 is poised to be a significant event that enhances Saudi Arabia’s role as a hub for digital health excellence and innovation in the region.

Kaspersky, a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oman Data Park (ODP), the Sultanate’s leading managed services and cloud provider, to strengthen cybersecurity collaboration and support organizations in Oman in building greater resilience against evolving cyber threats.

The MoU establishes a framework for technical information exchange, knowledge sharing, and coordinated incident response, enabling both parties to better address the increasingly complex challenges posed by cybercrime. As cyberattacks become more sophisticated, such cooperation ensures faster detection, better analysis of threats, and more proactive protection measures for businesses and government institutions.

Beyond technical collaboration, the agreement also includes executive training programs, customer education initiatives, and outreach activities. These initiatives are designed to raise awareness among decision-makers, employees, and end-users about the latest cyber risks, while also equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to adopt effective security practices. By working together, Kaspersky and ODP aim to enhance the overall cybersecurity culture in the Sultanate.

“At Kaspersky, our mission is to build a safer world by empowering organizations to anticipate, detect, and respond to cyberthreats with confidence,” said Rashed Al-Momani, General Manager, Kaspersky Middle East. “Through this collaboration with Oman Data Park, we are bringing our global expertise closer to customers in Oman, enabling stronger protection for critical sectors and contributing to the country’s cybersecurity ecosystem.”

Eng. Maqbool Al Wahabi, CEO of Oman Data Park added: “Cybersecurity is a cornerstone of Oman’s digital transformation journey. By partnering with Kaspersky, we are combining our local expertise with their global threat intelligence to deliver stronger, more reliable protection for businesses and government entities in the Sultanate. This cooperation reflects our commitment to providing secure, world-class cloud and managed services to our customers.”

With this partnership, Kaspersky continues to expand its commitment to the region, supporting national initiatives and enabling both the public and private sectors to adopt advanced security practices that keep pace with the evolving digital landscape.

The Ministry of Tourism has raised fines for operating hospitality facilities without a valid license to SR250,000 in major cities and key tourism destinations, up from the previous penalty amounting to SR50,000, according to the updated regulations that took effect this week.

The new penalties apply to first-tier cities, including Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, Jeddah, and Alkhobar, as well as major giga-project destinations such as NEOM, The Red Sea, Diriyah, Amaala, and Qiddiya. Facilities operating without a valid license in these areas will also face permanent closure until the violation is corrected.

In second-tier cities — Taif, Dammam, Abha, Jazan, Tabuk, Hail, Buraidah, Khamis Mushait, Jubail, Najran, Yanbu, Hafar Al-Batin, Al-Baha, Al-Hofuf, and Sakaka — fines have been raised to SR150,000 from SR50,000.

The penalty for allowing others to use a tourism license has also been increased to SR60,000 for first-tier facilities and SR55,000 for second-tier facilities, compared with SR50,000 previously.

New penalties and language rules

Fines for obstructing tourism inspectors have doubled to SR10,000 for first-tier facilities and SR7,000 for second-tier facilities.

A new regulation mandates bilingual communication (Arabic and English) when responding to tourists via phone or email.

Facilities have seven days to rectify violations before a fine is issued — SR6,000 for five-star and luxury hotels, SR5,000 for four-star hotels, and SR2,000 for lower-rated serviced apartments.

Violations with penalties below SR10,000 can be issued immediately by authorized inspectors.

Graduated penalties and major offenses

The updated regulations classify offenses based on severity. Major violations include operating without a license, continuing activity after license suspension or expiry, actions harming public safety or the Kingdom’s tourism reputation, and obstructing inspectors.

Penalties are determined by facility size, location, and the severity of the violation. Minor violations will first receive a warning and a grace period to correct the issue before financial penalties are applied. However, repeated offenses within a year will result in doubled penalties and possible suspension or license cancellation after multiple violations.

Three tourism zones

The new framework divides Saudi Arabia into three zones:

Tier 1: Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, and giga-project destinations (NEOM, The Red Sea, Diriyah, Amaala, Qiddiya).

Tier 2: Taif, Dammam, Abha, Jazan, Tabuk, Hail, Buraidah, Khamis Mushait, Jubail, Najran, Yanbu, Hafar Al-Batin, Al-Baha, Al-Hofuf, and Sakaka.

Tier 3: All other cities and governorates.

The Ministry emphasized that the new measures aimed to ensure high-quality services, enhance compliance across the hospitality sector, and protect the Kingdom’s tourism reputation.

Ankabut Information Technology, the UAE’s advanced technology provider for the education and research community, announced the signing of a strategic multi-party Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with global technology leaders Huawei Technologies UAE, RONG CLOUD H.K. LIMITED, Neuxnet (Singapore) PTE. LTD., and Talk Cloud (Beijing) Technology Co., Ltd.

The landmark agreement establishes a collaborative framework to co-design and integrate cutting-edge AI, cloud, and communication technologies tailored for the education sector. The consortium aims to foster innovation, enhance service portfolios, and deliver greater value to educational institutions and their stakeholders.

The collaboration will focus on several key areas:

• Joint Solution Development: Co-creating integrated, AI-driven, scenario-based education solutions.
• Technology Validation and Pilots: Testing and demonstrating these solutions within Ankabut’s network of partner institutions.
• Training and Capacity Building: Organizing workshops, seminars, and training programs to build capacity among educators and IT staff.
• Marketing and Ecosystem Promotion: Showcasing the partnership’s results and innovations at major industry events, exhibitions, and forums.
• Localization and Support: Adapting solutions to meet local requirements and providing ongoing, robust support.

“This partnership represents a significant leap forward for the education technology landscape,” said a spokesperson for Ankabut. “By uniting our regional expertise with the global technological prowess of Huawei, Rong Cloud, Neuxnet, and Talk Cloud, we are positioned to redefine learning experiences through powerful, practical AI applications.”

The alliance brings together complementary strengths from each partner: Ankabut’s deep roots in the UAE’s education sector, Huawei’s leadership in ICT infrastructure, Rong Cloud’s and Talk Cloud’s expertise in cloud communication platforms, and Neuxnet’s advanced networking and AI capabilities.

“This MOU underscores our shared commitment to driving digital transformation in education,” added a representative from Huawei Technologies UAE. “We are excited to collaborate on developing localized solutions that address real-world challenges faced by educators and students.”

The partners will immediately commence strategic discussions to develop a detailed action plan, with a focus on rapid prototyping and pilot deployments.

Abu Dhabi, UAE will host the Games of the Future 2025 (GOTF 2025), the groundbreaking global event where phygital sports bring together elite clubs, athletes, and gamers to compete in cutting-edge disciplines that blend real-world athleticism with advanced gaming technology. 

Taking place from 18-23 December 2025 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, the tournament is a natural extension of the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision and the nation’s designation of 2025 as the Year of Community, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a global hub for sport, innovation, youth empowerment, and cultural exchange.

His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Sports, affirmed that Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the Games of the Future 2025 is a qualitative new step in the country’s journey to consolidate its position as a global hub for innovation and the evolving sports industry. He emphasized that the Games reflects the We the UAE 2031 vision by empowering youth, advancing the digital economy and strengthening the global standing of Emirati sports.

His Excellency Dr. Al Falasi said: “The Games of the Future 2025 merges athletic performance with technology, inspiring youth, driving sports innovation, fostering teamwork among youth and supporting a sustainable economy based on innovation and knowledge. At the Ministry of Sports, we are committed to ensuring the success of the Games and reinforcing the UAE’s status as a premier host of global sports events.”

The We the UAE 2031 vision outlines ambitious goals around economic diversification, digital transformation, and youth empowerment. The Games of the Future 2025 directly supports these priorities by accelerating the digital economy through the introduction of new technology platforms and esports-driven industries that position the UAE as a destination for innovation and investment. 

The event also empowers youth by providing opportunities for athletes and gamers to showcase their skills on an international stage, while inspiring the next generation to embrace creativity, teamwork, and innovation. By hosting large-scale international phygital sports tournament, the UAE further demonstrates its leadership as a convenor of transformative global events.

At the same time, GOTF 2025 reflects the spirit of the UAE’s Year of Community, which emphasizes shared values, inclusivity, and togetherness. The event will bring together athletes, fans, and clubs from diverse countries and cultures, creating a platform that unites people across backgrounds. The phygital disciplines themselves promote collaboration, strategy, and adaptability, embodying the spirit of teamwork and mutual respect. Beyond the competition, fan zones, interactive activations, and cultural showcases will celebrate community spirit, enhancing the sense of belonging for residents and visitors alike.

In the lead-up to GOTF 2025, a dedicated community engagement roadshow will take place across key locations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, offering residents and fans an opportunity to explore the spirit of phygital sport through interactive activations and curated experiences. Stay tuned for more details on the roadshow and where to find it.

The Games of the Future 2025

The tournament will feature 11 disciplines including Phygital Football, Phygital Basketball, MOBA PC and Mobile, Battle Royale, and more, combining the drama of physical competition with the creativity of digital gaming.

A wide range of international and regional clubs have already confirmed their participation in the Games of the Future 2025, including PBC Astana, Thang Long Warriors, Intercosmics, CD Holcattes and Great Team Brazil. Phygital Football teams México Quetzales – Armadillos FC, CM Jardim, Greni Smith, Z10, FC WHITEBIRD and La Crema will also return to Abu for the final showdown, following their success at the Phygital Contenders: Abu Dhabi – Football tournament earlier this year.  

The event is also supported by World Phygital Community member organizations, such as Phygital Brazil, the Serbian Association of Electronic Sports, and the Belarusian Federation of Phygital Sports, reflecting the growing global network behind the phygital movement.

Among the star athletes set to compete are Rodrigo Ulibarri and Aldair Giorgana (Mexico Quetzales – Armadillos FC), as well as Matheus Dedo (CM Jardim) — each known for their standout performances across both traditional and digital sports. Their participation underscores the growing excitement among international athletes embracing the phygital format. 

They will be joined by a growing roster of clubs from across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, including groups competing in Phygital Basketball, Phygital Football, Phygital Dancing, and Phygital Shooter disciplines, underscoring the truly global nature and universal appeal of the tournament.

The competition is organised by ASPIRE, the Local Delivery Authority for the Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025, in collaboration with Ethara, the Event Delivery Partner, and Phygital International, the Global Rights Holder. The event is supported by key stakeholders, including the Host City Entity, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and the Official Partner, Ministry of Sports.

Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, said: “The Games of the Future is a reflection of the UAE’s bold vision to create opportunities for youth, innovation, and community. By bringing together athletes, gamers, fans, and partners, to introduce sports like you have never seen before, we’re bringing technology and sport to life through Phygital Sports”

ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi will play host for the Games of the Future from 18-23 December. As a dynamic space purpose-built for innovation and scale, it will be transformed into a futuristic field suitable for this ground-breaking global event – offering the ideal environment to deliver a world-class phygital sports showcase. Its strategic infrastructure and operational excellence continue to position Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a leading destination for international events at the intersection of technology, sport, and culture.

Marjan, the master developer of freehold properties in Ras Al Khaimah, and RAK Hospitality Holding, the government-owned investment and development arm in the Emirate, have announced a landmark strategic merger to create a unified entity operating under Marjan.  

This merger combines world-class hospitality expertise with visionary land development strategies to form a dynamic future-ready organization. Marjan will integrate real estate development, hospitality operations, and lifestyle experiences under one umbrella, positioning itself as one of the largest real estate developers in the UAE and the leading master developer in the Northern Emirates. 

Announcing the merger, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of Marjan, said: “RAK Vision 2030 has set the Emirate’s ambition to be a pioneer in the region for livability and a place where opportunities thrive. Anchored in this vision, the merger will create high-value jobs for Emiratis, develop national capabilities, and reinforce our position as a beacon of opportunity and innovation. Together, we are positioned to build thriving communities that bring the Emirate’s bold vision for sustainable prosperity to life.”

Marjan’s future developments including Al Marjan Island, RAK Central, Marjan Beach, and the Jebel Jais masterplan will elevate the quality of life for residents, enrich travel and leisure experiences, and attract diverse investment opportunities. The merger supports RAK Vision 2030’s goal of welcoming 3.5 million annual visitors and achieving nearly 20,000 hotel keys.

Abdulla Al Abdouli, Group CEO, said: “Marjan will position Ras Al Khaimah as the global lifestyle and investment hub of the future.”

This merger empowers Marjan to propel the Emirate into its next chapter of growth, fostering distinctive lifestyle offerings, and attracting world-class talent and investments. 

Kyndryl, a leading provider of mission-critical enterprise services, today released its second annual Readiness Report, drawing on responses from 3,700 senior leaders across 21 countries. The data reveals a moment of both momentum and reflection — as businesses in Saudi Arabia report growing returns from AI investments while facing mounting pressure to modernize infrastructure, scale innovation efforts, reskill workforces, and manage risk in an increasingly fragmented regulatory landscape.

“The Readiness Report confirms what we see in Saudi Arabia every day. Leaders are achieving returns from AI, yet many are working to modernize legacy systems, build new skills, and align with an evolving policy environment,” said Pieter Bil, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Kyndryl in the Middle East and Africa. “Vision 2030 raises the bar, asking all of us to build secure, sovereign ready digital infrastructure and world class human capability. The priority now is to move from early stage adoption to scaled innovation, strengthen cyber resilience, and develop Saudi talent so AI becomes a durable growth engine for the national economy.”

Last year’s report revealed a critical gap between perception and preparedness: while the majority of business leaders in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, believed their IT infrastructure was best-in-class, fewer felt it was ready for future disruption. While there has been momentum – that tension remains. This year:

• ROI pressure rising, but AI stuck in experimentation phase: 63% of Saudi organizations report feeling more pressure to prove ROI on AI investments compared to last year. However, 57% say their innovation often stalls after the proof-of-concept, and 53% agree foundational issues in their technology stack.

• Confidence continues to outweigh capability: While Saudi organizations are eager to innovate, foundational challenges persist. 94% say they struggle to keep up with the pace of technological advancements, 30% cite the complexity of their technology environments as a barrier to scaling tech investments, and 26% struggle to align business and technology teams.

• AI driving workforce transformation, but skills gaps remain: 91% in Saudi Arabia say AI will “completely” transform jobs at their organizations within 12 months. Yet, 31% are concerned about how to upskill and reskill employees whose jobs are replaced by AI, 35% worry about the lack of core cognitive skills and 35% cite gaps in technical skills needed to harness AI’s potential.

• Cyber resilience top of mind: With 76% of Saudi organizations having experienced a cyber-related outage in the past year, cybersecurity has become a top priority. Yet, only 39% are implementing robust cybersecurity measures, and 33% are upgrading their IT infrastructure to mitigate business risks and strengthen resilience.

• Policy and compliance shaping infrastructure decisions: As Saudi organizations scale their technology investments, 29% cite regulatory or compliance concerns as a barrier, underscoring the influence of policy on infrastructure strategy and innovation readiness.

Cloud is under pressure as geopolitical and regulatory disruption drive change

Many Saudi organizations are revisiting their cloud infrastructure, prompted by new regulations and growing concerns about data sovereignty. 67% of Saudi leaders express concerns about the geopolitical risks associated with storing and managing data in global cloud environments, and 70% have adjusted their cloud strategies in response – by investing in data repatriation (50%), reassessing vendors (28%), and shifting toward private cloud models (31%).

Huawei successfully held its first General-purpose Computing Forum at GITEX 2025. Global analysts, open-source representatives, experts, and industry leaders gathered at the event to discuss computing trends, drivers of ecosystem success, and best practices across key sectors. Discussions converged on one clear future: openness is the essential path to an intelligent world.

“As a pioneer on this open path, Huawei is deeply committed. We adhere to the principle of open hardware, open-source software, partner empowerment, and joint ecosystem development,” said Michael Chang, President of Huawei Computing Marketing & Solution Sales Dept.

Michael also highlighted how open ecosystems like Arm, spanning hardware, software, and OS, deliver broader choices, lower barriers, and greater innovation. To date, Huawei’s computing ecosystem has over 6 million developers, more than 8,000 partners, and over 22,000 certified solutions.

The Kunpeng hardware powers core applications in finance, energy, the public sector, carriers, and manufacturing. “We aim to co-build a sustainable global computing ecosystem with industry partners, providing an open and reliable computing alternative for the Middle East and the world,” Michael added.

Building on this vision, Hu Zhengce, Vice President, Huawei Middle East & Central Asia ICT Marketing & Solution Sales Dept., detailed the progress: “On the hardware front, Kunpeng continues to evolve with more cores and higher performance. In terms of software, Kunpeng has maintained a consistent commitment to open source over the past six years. We have progressively open-sourced the openUBMC firmware management software, openEuler OS, openGauss database, openFuyao computing cluster software, as well as BiSheng JDK and compilers.

This year, Kunpeng continues to open-source its solutions, including BoostKit for application enablement and the KUPL high-performance computing framework. These efforts empower customers and developers with seamless integration and deployment, delivering simpler processes, smoother upgrades, and easier maintenance.”

The forum attracted enthusiastic participants from the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa, and beyond, including representatives from industry sectors such as carriers, finance, public service, energy, and manufacturing, as well as academia.

Speakers noted the computing industry is undergoing its most significant infrastructure transformation in 20 years, driven by three key trends: open source becoming mainstream, heterogeneous computing emerging as the new benchmark, and the global Arm ecosystem becoming mature.

Kunpeng, as a core Arm ecosystem builder, reached 25% market share in China by the end of 2024. Now, Kunpeng is ready to accelerate digital intelligence with partners across the Middle East and Central Asia, ushering in a new computing era.

IDEMIA Public Security, the leading provider of secure and trusted biometric-based solutions, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with SAMI Advanced Electronics, a regional leader in the electronics industry in Saudi Arabia, to drive transformative innovation in travel, transportation, and smart mobility across the Kingdom. 

Formalized and signed at GITEX Global 2025, the world’s largest and most influential tech event, the agreement underscores IDEMIA Public Security’s commitment to shaping the future of mobility through cutting-edge technology and local collaboration. This milestone marks the start of a strategic collaboration focused on advancing digital transformation, enhancing operational efficiency, and delivering secure, frictionless travel experiences in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Under the agreement, IDEMIA Public Security and SAMI Advanced Electronics will jointly develop and deploy advanced biometric, transport, and smart city solutions, leveraging IDEMIA Public Security’s global expertise and SAMI’s regional capabilities to accelerate innovation and build technological capacity.

“We are proud to deepen our mission of making the world safer through trusted technology,” said Tim Ferris, Global Head, Travel & Transport, IDEMIA Public Security. “This partnership with SAMI Advanced Electronics brings us one step closer to realizing a future of seamless and secure mobility in Saudi Arabia. Together, we’re not only supporting Vision 2030 – we’re actively shaping the future of secure, seamless mobility for all who live, work, and travel in the Kingdom.”

IDEMIA Public Security’s biometric travel solutions are trusted worldwide to streamline border operations, enhance decision-making, and deliver personalized digital passenger journeys. Through their agreement with SAMI Advanced Electronics, IDEMIA Public Security reinforces its commitment to local innovation, knowledge transfer, and sustainable development in the region.

Mubadala Capital, a unit of Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, is working on a potential deal to acquire billboard operator Clear Channel Outdoor citing people familiar with the matter.

Activist investor Anson Funds Management had pushed for the sale of Clear Channel last month, the report said, and comes at a time when dealmaking in outdoor advertising has been lately heating up.

The San Antonio, Texas-based company has about $6.4 billion in debt, the report added.

While the asset management firm has a sprawling global portfolio, it is not a major player in US media investments.

The potential take-private move is the latest from Mubadala Capital, which earlier this year had sold a minority stake in its company to investment firm TWG Global led by Guggenheim Partners founder Mark Walter and financier Thomas Tull.

In a move that opens new horizons for smart real estate investment and exceptional digital services, Dubai Land Department (DLD) announced a strategic tie-up with Google Cloud that transforms artificial intelligence from a supportive tool into a driving force for investment decision-making.

Through the integration of DLD’s data with Google Cloud’s Data & AI capabilities, the partnership aims to simplify the investor journey from exploration to execution – while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global laboratory for sustainable and transparent investment innovation.

Building on ongoing efforts to achieve the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, the collaboration unveiled at GITEX Global 2025 introduces DLD Investor AI Assistant, powered by Google Gemini.

This innovative service elevates the investor experience by harnessing Google Cloud’s integrated ecosystem of artificial intelligence, cloud solutions, mapping technologies and podcasts, said the statement.

This partnership represents a milestone that reflects Dubai’s vision of harnessing artificial intelligence and data to lead the transformation of the real estate sector toward greater innovation and sustainability.

Moreover, the new digital assistant integrates these advanced capabilities with a human-centered design to create transformative experiences that redefine how individuals interact with institutions.

The first pillar of the collaboration is the DLD Investor AI Assistant, powered by Google Gemini, launched under the theme ‘Smart Dialogue, Smarter investments.

This service introduces a new dimension of support for local and international investors through an advanced knowledge interface that transforms vast volumes of real estate data into precise, neutral, and reliable analytical insights, empowering investors to make well-informed decisions with confidence.

Showcased at Gitex Global 2025 and will be made available through the DLDs’ website, the service offers comprehensive information about Dubai’s investment environment and key processes.

During this event, Dubai Land Department also introduced an innovative form of interaction where users can convert documents on real-estate investment topics into AI-generated interactive podcasts, powered by Google Notebook, allowing users to join podcasts and engage in rich human-like conversations.

DLD continues to enhance the service by integrating additional innovative features to further strengthen the capabilities of the AI investment assistant.

These initiatives mark a new chapter in the management of real estate investments and services in Dubai. By combining the institutional data strength of the DLD with Google Cloud’s expertise in artificial intelligence, Dubai reinforces its leading position in leveraging technology to enhance the efficiency of the real estate market and boost investor confidence.

Through this collaboration, the Dubai Land Department reaffirms its vision of achieving global leadership in real estate investment, a vision now realized through an innovative digital approach that transforms artificial intelligence into a driver of growth and data into a platform for opportunity, ensuring Dubai remains the world’s foremost destination for smart and sustainable real estate investment.

Day 4 of GITEX GLOBAL 2025 set another benchmark for digital collaboration as policymakers, cybersecurity leaders, and innovators convened to address the most pressing question of the intelligent age – how to secure a world powered by AI and data. While cybersecurity and resilience dominated the day’s discourse, the show floor remained a convergence of cutting-edge innovation across AI, cloud, data centres, robotics, and quantum computing, underlining GITEX’s unrivalled breadth and impact.

As digital transformation accelerates, speakers called for a unified global response that firmly plants security, ethics, and trust at the core of AI-driven progress. The 45th edition of GITEX GLOBAL continues driving business transformation and investments until tomorrow, 17 October 2025, converging more than 6,800 exhibitors, 2,000 startups, 1,200 investors, and delegations from over 180 countries at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Cyber Resilience: Building Trust in the Age of Intelligence

Opening the day’s program, H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, highlighted the significance of the gathering: “As a platform, nothing really represents the UAE’s vision when it comes to technology, and the UAE’s position as a convener of the world than GITEX.” His Excellency then urged governments and enterprises to prioritize AI capacity-building and risk management as key national imperatives, sharing, “We’re all for proactive regulation, yet proactive regulation needs to be well-informed. We need to have agile policymaking to try to deal with the impact of AI as it evolves and manage it effectively every step of the way.”

In a defining address titled Cyber Resilience 2030: People, Policy & AI at the Core of National Security, H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, outlined how the nation is advancing an integrated framework that combines governance, AI threat detection, and citizen awareness. His Excellency stressed, “The main message is to have a strong Cyber Culture across nations and society. Our people, is and will always be our first line of defense.” At the main stage, the UAE Cyber Security Council also launched the UAE’s Cybersecurity Vision 2025 report. At the unveiling, His Excellency shared, “Resiliency is very important for us in the UAE, and this is reflected in the report. The focus is on capacity-building, technology exchange, partnerships, and shared innovation.”

Dr. Neal Jetton, Director of Cybercrime at INTERPOL, offered insights into the global authority’s coordinated strategy against transnational cybercrime. Dr. Jetton commented, “Criminals are using AI to increase their efficiency scope and effectiveness of their operations. At INTERPOL, we bring countries together, with relevant private sector representatives, to work together on the steps needed to be effective against cybercrimes.”

Energy storage tech entrepreneur, Taavi Madiberk, CEO and Co-Founder of Skeleton Technologies, raised thought-provoking questions on the economics of AI. He said: “It’s very important to bring down the cost of AI. If for the same money, you can have 40% more computing power, you can enable new applications in cancer research, climate research, new battery technologies.”

Shedding light on cyber strategies from global governments, Her Excellency Liisa-Ly Pakosta, Estonia’s Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, inspired audiences on how digital nations are fortifying themselves against AI-driven threats through collaborative frameworks and strong governance. H.E. shared: “Every cyberattack has an overspill; that’s why international cooperation between researchers, cyber specialists, companies, and government is truly essential.”

Exhibitors Showcase the Future of Secure Digital Transformation

Across the exhibition halls, the momentum continued as cybersecurity leaders demonstrated how innovation and protection now go hand in hand.

Huawei commanded attention with a comprehensive showcase of 80+ solutions themed under ‘All Intelligence,’ which unites five transformative pillars shaping the intelligent economy – Accelerate Industrial Intelligence, Partner Park, Huawei Cloud, Intelligent Data Center, and Intelligent Campus. The company unveiled end-to-end industry solutions designed to accelerate national digital transformation for sovereign and hybrid deployments. With a view to enhancing knowledge exchange, Huawei also unveiled the ICT Skills Development Insights Report 2025 in partnership with UNESCO IITE at GITEX GLOBAL.

Demonstrations of AI-driven network automation, energy-efficient digital power systems, and advanced cybersecurity frameworks reinforced Huawei’s leadership in building the digital foundations of smarter cities, resilient enterprises, and connected societies.

Critical infrastructure cybersecurity leader, OPSWAT presented its MetaDefender Optical Diode ensuring highly secure data transfer between OT/IT and the next-generation MetaDefender Kiosks, including Stand, Tower & Kiosks that offer advanced protection for critical assets.

Fortinet, a global leader in integrated AI-powered security solutions across networks, endpoints, and clouds, showcased its FortiGuard Incident Response & Readiness – a set of services that provide expert-led, intelligence-driven, and fully tailored support combining readiness, response, and continuous improvement under a predictable subscription model.

Crowdstrike presented Falcon platform, their flagship security solution. The cloud-native innovation has yielded a 98% reduction in critical vulnerabilities covering endpoint, cloud workloads, identity, data, and applications.

MoUs Strengthen Dubai’s Cyber Infrastructure

On the MoU Stage, Dubai Municipality and Fortinet International signed a strategic agreement to advance the emirate’s AI-enabled cybersecurity infrastructure, supporting the development of secure digital systems and public sector transformation.

Day 5 Preview: Closing a Landmark 45th Edition

GITEX GLOBAL 2025 enters its final day tomorrow, capping a week of shaping the future of AI, cybersecurity, cloud, quantum, data centers, mobility, biotech, digital health, and future energy.

With record crowds, groundbreaking product launches, and milestone business partnerships, GITEX GLOBAL is ready to conclude on a high note, before its milestone move to Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai in 2026, running from 7-11 December.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) and global technology group e& are bringing to life their digital transformation vision with the launch of the nationwide initiative “AI Nation – Afaaq” program to train 30,000 individuals in machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The program, announced at GITEX Global in Dubai, is part of the strategic US$1 billion alliance between e& and AWS, which was announced in 2024.

e&, which serves more than 198 million subscribers in 38 countries, will work with AWS, the world’s most comprehensive cloud provider, to deliver this training through e& Academy, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s digital leadership and talent development journey.

This initiative aligns with growing regional workforce challenges and requirements highlighted in IDC’s 2024 report. According to the study, an estimated 88% of United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) organizations recognize AI’s business impact. However, although 78% of UAE organizations prioritize AI investment, nearly half (46%) identify the shortage of AI skills and expertise as a critical barrier to large-scale implementation.

By addressing the AI skills gap head-on, the program reinforces e& and AWS’s commitment to directly support the UAE’s ambitious national goals including the UAE Centennial 2071 plan, which aims to build a future-focused government and a diversified, knowledge-based economy.

The program will be delivered through the e& Academy, ensuring trainees across the UAE have access to world-class training and localized support. AWS will provide 30,000 sponsored vouchers for industry-recognized certifications including 25,000 for the foundational AWS Certified AI Practitioner and 5,000 for the more advanced AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate. Learners will also have free access to digital, self-paced training content on AWS Skill Builder, one of the most comprehensive online learning centers for cloud skills.

To further support learners on their journey, the program will be complemented by live, interactive ‘Cloud Coach’ sessions for exam readiness, empowering them with in-demand technical skills that contribute to the UAE’s digital-first ambitions.

Harrison Lung, Group Chief Strategy Officer, e&, said: “As AWS’s strategic partner, e& is proud to enable this nationwide digital skills program through our e& Academy. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to developing the next generation of talents that will drive the UAE’s innovation and leadership in the global digital economy. By combining AWS’s global training excellence with our local expertise and established presence, we are ensuring that learners across the country have access to the tools and support needed to succeed in the era of cloud and AI. This is about building the nation’s talent base at scale so employers can hire with confidence and people can step into AI-enabled roles across every sector.”

Madhavi Reddy, Managing Director, Middle East North Africa and Turkey, AWS, said: “This initiative represents AWS’s deep commitment to making world-class digital skills training accessible across the UAE. By providing 30,000 learners with industry-recognized certifications in cloud and AI, we are helping to build the robust talent base required for the nation’s digital transformation journey.”

“Our collaboration with e& Academy as an AWS Training Partner is crucial, enabling us to combine AWS’s global training expertise with strong local delivery. Together, we are empowering a new generation of builders to turn knowledge into tangible impact for businesses and communities alike.”

By developing a large-scale pipeline of talent equipped with advanced skills in cloud computing and AI, AWS and e& are investing in people that will drive innovation, attract investment, and secure the UAE’s position as a leading global technology powerhouse for generations to come.