TECH-

#1- Samsung Gulf Electronics and e& UAE signed a MoU to collaborate on AI-powered connectivity and digital transformation initiatives, according to a press release. The partnership aims to enhance customer experiences and regional tech innovation.

The details: The collaboration will introduce AI-optimized connectivity for Samsung devices, enabling seamless device experiences. eSIM migration will be enhanced with automated number transfers and push notifications, simplifying the transition process. Samsung Care+ will expand across all e& UAE device categories, ensuring comprehensive support for users. The companies will also introduce AI-driven services such as Smile, designed for customer engagement, and Go Learning, an educational tool aimed at enriching digital experiences.

#2- du partners with Microsoft to launch AI-driven cybersecurity solutions for UAE enterprises: Telecom operator du has partnered up with Microsoft to integrate Microsoft Azure’s security stack into its managed services to bolster cybersecurity for businesses in the UAE, according to a press release. The collaboration aims to deliver AI-powered solutions to combat evolving cyber threats.

The details: The partnership will merge Azure’s security tools—including Security Copilot for threat detection, Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection, and large language models (LLM)—with du’s monitoring and incident response services. The integration of LLM enables real-time data analysis, risk identification, and automated threat response.

LOGISTICS-

DP World’s KSA Southern Container Terminal is open for business: The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and Dubai-based DP World inaugurated the SAR 3 bn (USD 800 mn) Southern Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port, after a three-year expansion and development project saw the terminal’s capacity increase to 4 mn TEUs from 1.8 mn TEUs, according to a press release. The expansion is targeting a future capacity of 5 mn TEUs.

The details: The upgraded 2.15k-meter quay (18m deep) can now handle five large vessels at once, with refrigerated container capacity doubling to 2.34k. Advanced automation, IoT tracking, and AI load analysis cut gate transaction times from two minutes to 10 seconds, while new electrified yard cranes were also introduced, with plans to expand quay cranes to 17 this year. Mawani and DP World aim to slash carbon emissions by 50% in five years through electric equipment, green buildings, and water recycling.

More in the pipeline: DP World is building a new facility with a capacity to inspect up to 75 reefer containers at once — the largest in the Kingdom, according to the press release. The Dubai-based giant is also working on a SAR 900 mn logistics park spanning 415k sqm to enhance storage, distribution, and shipping services, set to be completed by 2Q 2026.

TRANSPORT-

New luxury car service in Dubai: Dubai’s Roadsand Transport Authority (RTA) introduced the Takamul Permit, a new initiative aimed at integrating the luxury transport and car rental sectors, according to a press release. The permit allows rental firms to offer high-end chauffeur-driven vehicles for up to one month under specific regulations.

REAL ESTATE-

DLD partners on support for real estate startups: The Dubai Land Department (DLD) and real estate technology accelerator firm Reach partnered to launch Reach Middle East, an initiative targeting property technology (proptech) startups, according to a press release. Reach is backed by the National Association of Realtors and its portfolio covers North America, Australia and New Zealand, the UK, Latin America, and Israel.

The partnership: DLD will give proptech startups in Dubai networking support to connect them with investors, as well as data analytics and pilot programs to test projects. Reach will oversee operations, and provide funding and access to its investor network. It will also set up an office in the emirate. This is DLD’s second proptech-focused initiative this month, after it partnered with the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (Diez) to support startups.

Tags: