UAE’s Sheikh Tahnoon discusses AI, tech with Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk in US His meetings came after UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed met earlier this week with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. United Arab Emirates
Uber, China's WeRide to launch self-driving robotaxis in UAE WeRide already operates the largest robotaxi fleet in the UAE, where residents can access its robotaxi services through the TXAI app. United Arab Emirates
In White House visit, UAE leader seeks cooperation on Gaza and AI UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will meet with President Joe Biden in his first official visit to Washington since 2017. United Arab Emirates
Analysis Israel detects Hezbollah limitations, doubles down on tech edge, attacks Recognizing Hezbollah's limitations, Israel has frequently pushed the boundaries of its military engagement, including the targeted killing of senior Hezbollah commanders and the strikes this Friday. By Francesco Schiavi In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance
Analysis Telegram CEO's arrest spotlights UAE’s investment-based citizenship laws By Jennifer Gnana In Dubai, reporting on Gulf energy policy and politics
UAE asks France for 'urgent' consular services to arrested citizen Telegram’s Durov United Arab Emirates
Elon Musk’s SpaceX to provide internet services in Bahrain, Israel may be next Musk has already assisted Bahrain with its satellite program and has additional space-related interests in Turkey. Bahrain
Crypto hacking event returns to Dubai The UAE is emerging as a regional hub for cryptocurrency activities. United Arab Emirates
Saudi Arabia, Turkey react to Elon Musk's Twitter takeover Musk’s purchase of the social media giant is being heavily discussed in Saudi Arabia and Turkey, where the billionaire has a complicated history with both governments. Saudi Arabia
Dubai-based transportation startup Swvl acquires Turkey’s Volt Lines Swvl has recently bought other firms in Europe and Latin America and has received funds to help advance the transportation safety of women in Egypt. United Arab Emirates
UAE crypto push continues as Kraken invades Abu Dhabi Two other cryptocurrency exchanges have also announced moves to Dubai recently. United Arab Emirates
German bank to fund Aswan Dam, construction of solar plant in Egypt The Aswan Dam provides half of Egypt’s power supply. Egypt is also working to increase its use of solar power. Egypt
Emirati firm to build solar power plants in Morocco Morocco is heavily dependent on imports for its energy needs, and is working to increase its use of renewable sources. Morocco
Volvo invests in Israeli electric car battery maker StoreDot There is growing demand for electric vehicles in Israel. Like cars that run on gasoline, electric cars come with environmental concerns. Israel
Online shopping in Turkey took off in 2021 The jump coincides with growth in Turkey’s fintech sector, but e-commerce faces some challenges. By Adam Lucente In New York City, reporting on regional news, militancy, climate change
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
Shareholder Saudi prince rejects Elon Musk’s bid to buy Twitter Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, one of the largest shareholders of the social media giant, believes Twitter is worth more than Musk is offering. Saudi Arabia
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