Russia launches two Iranian satellites into orbit as ties grow The launch from Russia is the latest sign of the growing ties between Tehran and Moscow in a range of sectors. Iran
Saudi's PIF downsizes foreign investment, turns to AI, domestic priorities Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund is looking to invest in tourism, real estate and sustainability as its Vision 2030 deadline draws closer. Saudi Arabia
Analysis How new US AI framework could impact UAE, Saudi ambitions The framework comes as the UAE has deepened its AI ties with the United States in recent months over a series of visits to Washington by senior Emirati officials. By Jack Dutton , Samuel Wendel
Abu Dhabi to invest $15 billion in decarbonization The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company’s interest in carbon capture and hydrogen is not new, and is part of a wider shift in the United Arab Emirates. Gulf
Dubai’s use of solar power increased in 2022 Dubai is playing a large role in the UAE’s move toward solar energy. Gulf
Iraq's tech ecosystem offers bright spot for private sector Despite numerous regional and country-specific challenges, Iraqi start-ups had a good year. Iraq
Abu Dhabi bank launches tokenized payment system using wearables There have been numerous fintech developments in the United Arab Emirates this year. Gulf
Israel set to top up Galilee with desalinated water from Mediterranean Some of the Sea of Galilee's water will reportedly go to Jordan following a water-sharing deal between Israel and Jordan earlier this year. Israel
Elon Musk’s electric vehicle company Tesla hiring in Turkey The US electric vehicle maker already has a presence in Jordan and Israel and could soon launch in Turkey, where Musk has a good relationship with President Erdogan. Turkey
Dubai’s AMEA Power wins solar contract in South Africa Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia are seeking better ties with sub-Saharan African states, including in regards to energy. Gulf
The strength of Iran’s startup ecosystem put to the test amid protests Bijan Khajehpour In Vienna, reporting on Iranian politics
UAE to open facility that converts waste to green hydrogen The Gulf state already has one waste-to-energy plant and is looking to build more. Gulf
Iraqi startup Lezzoo expands with purchase of Saydo The delivery startup is one of several in the autonomous Kurdistan Region, and the autonomous government is hoping to spur more startup growth. Iraq
Israel earmarks residential rooftops for electricity production The new strategy of the Ministry of Energy includes encouraging residential buildings to install solar panels that would then be connected to the national electricity grid. Israel
Egypt launches first city on metaverse Egypt opens the first city on the metaverse inspired by Egyptian civilization. Egypt