Page 73 - SAMENA Trends - June-July 2025

REGIONAL & MEMBERS UPDATES SAMENA TRENDS

Saudi Arabia Launches Global Initiatives to Address Computing and AI

Challenges

At the 160th anniversary of the International Telecommunication
Union (ITU) in Geneva, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications
and Information Technology, Abdullah Alswaha, highlighted the
Kingdom’s launch of initiatives to tackle global challenges in
computing, data, and algorithms. Supported by Crown Prince
Mohammed bin Salman, these efforts aim to bridge gaps in
artificial intelligence and promote digital inclusivity worldwide.
Alswaha emphasized the urgency of collective action amid rapid
AI advancements to prevent widening societal divides and foster
equitable development through technology. During his Geneva
visit, he held high-level meetings with ITU Secretary General Doreen
Bogdan-Martin, Algerian Minister Sid Ali Zerrouki, Somali Minister
Mohamed Adam Moalim Ali, WIPO Director General Daren Tang,
and UNCTAD Secretary General Rebeca Grynspan. Discussions
centered on strengthening global partnerships in digital long-standing ITU partnership and leadership in Sustainable
governance, AI, infrastructure, intellectual property protection, Development Goals initiatives reinforce its commitment to a
sustainable innovation, and digital economy growth. Saudi Arabia’s technology-driven, inclusive global future.

Kuwait Accelerates Tech and Telecom Growth to Build a Sustainable, Diversified
Economy

like ports, oil, education, and healthcare, while a partnership with
Nvidia targets the launch of an AI Centre of Excellence for real-
time, intelligent network services. Kuwait’s digital transformation
includes expanding Google Cloud offices and partnering with
Microsoft to modernize government financial and administrative
systems using AI and cloud solutions. Cybersecurity efforts
are led by the Central Agency for Information Technology’s Zero
Trust initiative with Microsoft, safeguarding data, applications,
and infrastructure from modern cyber threats. The Ministry of
Information’s agreement with the National Cybersecurity Centre
aims to strengthen national media operations. Despite advanced
digital infrastructure and cybersecurity, Kuwait remains cautious
about entering the lucrative online gambling market. While
neighboring countries embrace regulated iGaming to boost
Kuwait is rapidly enhancing its technology and communication economies, Kuwait maintains a conservative stance. Experts
infrastructure to support its ambition for a sustainable, diversified suggest the country could harness tech innovations to regulate the
economy. Key government leaders recently met with Google sector responsibly while preserving societal values. Supporting
Cloud executives to integrate AI and data analytics into public digital growth, Kuwait invests heavily in mega infrastructure
services, driving efficiency in infrastructure, healthcare, energy, projects. Mubarak Al Kabeer Port on Bubiyan Island, part of China’s
and education under the National AI Strategy (2025–2028). This Belt and Road Initiative, will enhance regional trade logistics. The
strategy focuses on governance, privacy, security, and workforce massive Al-Mutlaa City housing project, alongside planned new
skill development aligned with Kuwait’s Vision 2035. Telecom cities Saad Al-Abdullah and Sabah Al-Ahmad, will incorporate
giant Ooredoo Kuwait is spearheading 5G network advancements, smart city technologies offering schools, health centers, and
upgrading infrastructure with massive antennas and collaborating amenities to over 400,000 residents, improving quality of life and
with Ericsson to enhance network capabilities including slicing cementing Kuwait’s position as a tech-forward hub in the Middle
and edge computing. These innovations aim to boost sectors East.

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