GSMA M360 MENA 2024: Unlocking the future of MENA’s digital transformation

Lara Dewar, chief marketing officer of GSMA.

Updated 53 sec ago

Arab News

November 12, 2024 18:11

This Nov. 18-19, international and regional leaders from the mobile, technology and policy sectors will convene at the first-ever Doha edition of M360 MENA, opening a transformative chapter in the digital evolution of the Middle East and North Africa. The region’s digital economy is projected to grow from $180 billion today to $780 billion by 2030, and with Qatar’s leadership in digital innovation and ambitious vision for a thriving, global economy, we are honored to hold M360 MENA with host sponsor Ooredoo, in partnership with Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Technology.

Innovation and digital progress

M360 MENA will commence with the event’s official opening ceremony led by Mohammed bin Ali Al-Mannai, minister of communications and information technology of Qatar, with Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo, group CEO of Ooredoo, and Jawad Abbassi, head of MENA at GSMA.

With a focus on AI and 5G, M360 MENA is shaping up to be an unmissable event for networking and debate, fostering innovation and collaboration and helping to advance the digital economy’s growth potential across MENA. A diverse group of C-suite executives, government officials and technology innovators will gather to share knowledge and discuss the partnerships, tech and policies that promise to unlock the power of connectivity and drive the region forward.

Also set for M360 MENA is the publication of the GSMA’s annual Mobile Economy MENA report, which we will publish in full on the first day of the event. This comprehensive report is a deep dive into the state of the mobile industry in the MENA region in 2024, providing evidence that in the digital age, connectivity is more than a convenience — it is a necessity. The report finds that the role of mobile infrastructure and services will become even more vital to the way society functions, as governments increasingly use digital technologies to tackle some of the most pressing social and economic challenges.

A curated platform for strategic dialogue and action

With these challenges in mind, from bridging the digital divide to navigating complex regulatory landscapes, discussions at M360 MENA will address barriers such as these with a focus on the mobile sector’s essential role in advancing digital transformation in the region through 5G rollout and the rise of AI applications. Mobile technology and connectivity is a powerful enabler, helping people and societies to have access to education, health care and economic opportunities, which is essential with rapid urbanization alongside vast, underserved areas. It is the connective tissue that binds societies together in our digital, online world.

With the region on track to become a global digital economy hub, advancements in machine learning, cloud computing, and IoT are redefining industries and unlocking new opportunities for entrepreneurship and workforce development. M360 MENA will shine a light on these trends and bring stakeholders together to create an enabling environment for digital growth. This growth, however, cannot reach its full potential without addressing regulatory and social barriers, expanding digital literacy, and making digital access more affordable.

According to GSMA’s State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2024 report, although 96 percent of the MENA population has access to mobile broadband, only 49 percent are currently online. This mobile broadband usage gap — impacting nearly half of the region’s population — is caused by challenges including affordability, device accessibility, and digital skills. Addressing these barriers will unlock substantial socioeconomic benefits and drive GDP growth across MENA.

On Day 2, I will join senior leaders from Ooredoo Fintech, the Digital Cooperation Organization, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Digital Technologies, and stc in Keynote 2. Together, we will explore how collaboration is vital for driving innovation, accelerating digital transformation across industries, and shaping a resilient digital future for the MENA region.

The path forward requires a concerted effort to support mobile operators in building infrastructure, navigating complex regulatory frameworks, and creating an environment conducive to sustainable investment. Governments have a key role to play, particularly in optimizing sector-specific taxation, universal service funds, and fair share regulation to bolster digital development.

Our M360 and MWC global series has long convened policymakers and industry leaders with a focus on digital-first societies, and our MENA event will play host to exclusive roundtable discussions on 5G and spectrum initiatives. With our long-earned reputation as a facilitating force outside the UN to enable influential regulatory conversations, this invite-only format will help drive impactful dialogue between policymakers and industry leaders for robust, digital ecosystems.

Join the conversation at M360 MENA 2024

As well as key discussions, cross-industry partnerships are critical in driving regional progress. This year’s event will feature exhibitors and sponsors such as China Mobile, Comarch, iHorizons and Google Cloud, showcasing the innovative technologies that continue to push the boundaries of connectivity and digital inclusion. To secure their place at M360 MENA and engage with the region’s thought leaders and visionaries who are shaping the future of digital transformation in MENA, attendees should register on the official website. By working collaboratively, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous digital future in the MENA region.

- The writer is Lara Dewar, chief marketing officer of GSMA.

Paysky: Leading the future of digital payments in MEA

Dr. Waleed Sadek, Founder and CEO of Paysky

Updated 12 November 2024

Arab News

November 12, 2024 14:16

Paysky: Leading the future of digital payments in MEA

Updated 12 November 2024

Arab News

November 12, 2024 14:16

Since its establishment in 2017, Paysky has emerged as a pioneering force in the fintech landscape, particularly in Egypt and across Africa. With a mission to democratize access to digital financial services, Paysky has become synonymous with innovation, driving financial inclusion and reshaping the payment ecosystem in the Middle East and Africa. Operating in 18 countries, including pivotal African markets such as Egypt, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Ghana, Paysky has positioned itself as a strategic partner for financial institutions, businesses, and consumers seeking advanced, innovative digital payment solutions.

Revolutionizing payment infrastructure across Africa

Paysky’s commitment goes beyond providing digital payment solutions — it plays an instrumental role in building and enhancing payment infrastructure across the continent. The company powers national payment gateways in Egypt and Libya, as well as eight African countries under the GIM-UEMOA network. This extensive reach underscores Paysky’s dedication to fostering a seamless, cashless economy that promotes financial empowerment.

Paysky’s comprehensive approach to digital payments has enabled the company to serve over 500 million customers and support more than 2 million businesses, making transactions more secure and accessible. By tailoring solutions that meet the unique demands of each market, Paysky helps bridge the financial gap, addressing challenges faced by cash-centric economies in Africa.

Transformative solutions with Yalla Super App

One of Paysky’s standout achievements is the Yalla Super App, launched in 2021 in partnership with Visa. The app is a multi-functional platform that offers a wide range of services, including money transfers, electronic payments, shopping, insurance, investment, and “save now, pay later” options. It gained rapid traction, surpassing 800,000 downloads and facilitating over a million transactions worth over half a billion Egyptian pounds within its first 100 days. This success story illustrates Paysky’s innovative prowess in creating digital tools that simplify everyday financial interactions.

A major milestone in the journey of the Yalla Super App was winning the prestigious We Make The Future competition in Europe. Competing against over 3,000 startups, Yalla stood out as the victor, further cementing Paysky’s reputation as a leader in digital financial innovation. This achievement is a testament to the app’s innovative groundbreaking nature and its potential to set new benchmarks in the fintech world.

Financial sustainability for individuals

Beyond payments, Paysky promotes financial sustainability through advanced savings and investment solutions. A notable example is the gold-trading feature on the Yalla Super App, which enables users to invest in gold as a long-term savings tool. Additionally, users can access small-scale money market investments, further demonstrating Paysky’s commitment to offering flexible financial solutions that cater to a diverse range of individual needs. These features empower users to make informed, secure financial decisions, fostering greater financial independence and stability.

Leadership and vision

At the helm of Paysky is Dr. Waleed Sadek, a seasoned industry leader whose extensive background includes serving as head of strategy and innovation for central and eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Visa. His experience at Visa provided him with profound insights into global payment strategies and innovation, laying the groundwork for his vision to revolutionize the digital payment landscape through Paysky.

Reflecting on the company’s journey and its transformative impact on the region, Sadek said: “At Paysky, our mission goes beyond just creating payment solutions; we are building the financial infrastructure that will drive the digital economy forward in the MEA region. By empowering individuals and businesses with accessible, reliable, and innovative digital tools, we’re laying the foundation for a future where financial inclusion is not just an aspiration but a reality, that paves the way to economic prosperity and social welfare.”

Strengthening security and infrastructure

A vital part of Paysky’s success lies in its focus on security and reliability. The company’s Paysky 3DS 2.0 system exemplifies this by enhancing the security of digital transactions, giving users confidence in adopting cashless payments. Such innovations make it easier for businesses to integrate with digital platforms, boosting trust and expanding the reach of electronic financial services across Africa.

Awards and recognition

Paysky’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. It has received numerous prestigious awards, reflecting its leadership in the fintech sector. In 2018, it was recognized by DIFC FinTech Hive as the largest fintech accelerator in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Other accolades include “Egypt’s Fastest-Growing Multichannel Payment Solutions Provider” by The Global Economics and “Most Innovative Digital Financial Services Platform” by the MEA Business Awards in 2021. The company was also named the “Best Provider of Innovative Multichannel Payment Solutions” by Global Business Outlook in 2023 and featured on Forbes’ list of the top 50 fintech companies in the Middle East in 2024. The Yalla Super App won “Most Innovative Digital Banking Platform” in 2021 and “Fastest-Growing App” in 2023, in addition to its victory at WMF.

A vision for inclusive growth

Paysky’s strategy emphasizes sustainable innovation and strategic market entry, especially in regions with untapped potential. For example, with the substantial flow of remittances from the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Paysky is expanding its presence in Pakistan, which, like many African markets, relies heavily on cash-based transactions. By harnessing these opportunities, Paysky aims to further integrate digital payment systems that benefit both individual users and businesses.

The path ahead

As Paysky looks to the future, its vision remains clear: to be the preferred financial ecosystem enabler across the Middle East and Africa. With its strong foundation in innovation, proven track record, and commitment to building partnerships that uplift local economies, Paysky is set to continue shaping the landscape of digital payments. The company’s efforts align with the broader goal of enabling financial sustainability and driving digital transformation throughout the region.

Paysky is more than a fintech solutions provider — it is a transformative force building the infrastructure for a robust, cashless economy across Africa and the MEA region. Through its bold initiatives and forward-thinking approach, Paysky stands at the forefront of digital payment evolution, making a significant impact that resonates across continents.

Emkan Education spins off Cambridge Associate department into new entity ‘Stellar’

Updated 12 November 2024

Arab News

November 12, 2024 12:57

Emkan Education spins off Cambridge Associate department into new entity ‘Stellar’

Updated 12 November 2024

Arab News

November 12, 2024 12:57

Emkan Education, a leading education consultancy company in Saudi Arabia, has announced the official spin-off of its Cambridge Associate department into a new company, Stellar. This strategic move will allow each organization to sharpen its focus on core competencies, giving Stellar a dedicated platform to drive growth in the assessment and professional development field.

In 2017, Emkan Education entered into a strategic partnership with Cambridge International Education, the world’s largest provider of international education qualifications and part of the University of Cambridge. As a Cambridge Associate, Emkan Education has served as a crucial link between Cambridge and individual schools in order to deliver qualifications, administer external high-risk examinations and a variety of professional development services to drive the growth of Cambridge programs and qualifications in Saudi Arabia.

The growth of private schooling in Saudi Arabia, along with the rise in demand for internationally recognized qualifications like those from Cambridge, has been a central focus in advancing the nation’s educational goals under Saudi Vision 2030.

Vision 2030 has prioritized elevating the quality of education, diversifying educational offerings, and preparing students for global competitiveness — objectives that align closely with the introduction of Cambridge qualifications and the expansion of private, international-standard schooling in Saudi Arabia. With the launch of Stellar, Emkan Education aims to create a more agile, specialized entity to meet the evolving needs of schools, students, and education stakeholders. This transition allows Stellar to intensify its focus on delivering Cambridge Education’s renowned programs, alongside its own tailored assessment solutions, reinforcing its commitment to educational excellence.

“Stellar represents a renewed commitment to empowering learners and delivering top-tier educational solutions,” said Basma Bushnak, CEO of Emkan Education. “We look forward to seeing Stellar succeed as an independent entity, building on our shared vision with Cambridge to empower learners worldwide.”

“Emkan Education has been pivotal to the growth of Cambridge qualifications and our work in general within the education sector in Saudi Arabia,” said Waseem Al-Hanbali, regional director of international education at Cambridge, MENA. “During our seven-year relationship, Emkan has helped tens of thousands of students access a Cambridge education across the Kingdom, reaching some of the most remote parts of the country. The launch of Stellar represents a significant step in improving education outcomes for all students in Saudi Arabia. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Emkan under this new name and identity,” said Al-Hanbali.

Stellar’s operations will focus on further expanding access to Cambridge’s world-class curriculum and assessments, while continuing to cater to schools’ innovative solutions and support.

Emkan Education is dedicated to advancing learning outcomes through tailored programs, assessments, and resources. With a focus on quality and innovation, Emkan Education partners with global organizations to bring the best in educational tools and assessments to schools and learners. As a Cambridge Associate, it has served as a crucial link between Cambridge and individual schools in order to deliver qualifications, administration of external high-risk examinations and a variety of professional development services to drive the growth of Cambridge programs and qualifications in Saudi Arabia. Emkan has administered exams for over 8000+ learners, and delivered training sessions to empower more than 5,600 Cambridge school leaders and teachers. Moreover, 620+ leaders and teachers completed Cambridge Professional Development Qualifications. which entails that Emkan has been the largest provider of PDQs across the MENA region.

Stellar, newly formed from Emkan Education’s Cambridge Examinations division, is committed to providing world-class assessment and training solutions in partnership with Cambridge Education. Through innovative and reliable education services, Stellar empowers educational institutions through innovative and reliable assessments that foster both academic excellence, professional growth and globally competitive citizens.

Cambridge University Press and Assessment is part of the University of Cambridge. The International Education group works with schools worldwide to build an education that shapes knowledge, understanding and skills. Together with schools, Cambridge gives learners the confidence they need to thrive and make a positive impact in a changing world. Cambridge offers a globally trusted and flexible framework for education from age three to 19 (the Cambridge Pathway), informed by research, experience, and listening to educators.

Stellar team can be contacted at [email protected] and +966 56 815 6853.

Chef Akira Back set to elevate Riyadh’s culinary scene

Updated 11 November 2024

Arab News

November 11, 2024 20:59

Chef Akira Back set to elevate Riyadh’s culinary scene

Updated 11 November 2024

Arab News

November 11, 2024 20:59

RIYADH: World-renowned chef Akira Back launched his namesake restaurant on Oct. 7 in the heart of Riyadh’s prestigious diplomatic quarter. The establishment promises to redefine the city’s dining landscape, offering a tantalizing adventure for the palate and soul alike.

Born in Seoul, Korea and raised in Aspen, Colorado, Chef Akira currently operates 28 restaurants internationally, including locations in London, Paris, Dubai, Las Vegas, and more, with new venues on the cusp including Rome, Florence and San Francisco opening within the next two years. Chef Akira has grown a global following due to his innovative culinary experiences blended with a vibrant social atmosphere.

A one-time professional snowboarder, Chef Akira’s dishes are influenced by memories of his childhood in Korea, combined with his global travels and integral love of global cuisine. He is renowned for his ability to reshape modern Japanese dining and truly brings a sense of adventure and boundless creativity to his culinary creations, which are as playful as they are polished.

At Akira Back Riyadh, guests can expect a culinary journey like no other, which will showcase an array of Chef Akira’s greatest hits including the international favorite “AB Tuna Pizza,” consisting of a wafer-thin crunchy crust, umami aioli made with ponzu sauce, tuna sashimi, micro shiso and white truffle oil, and the “Perfect Storm,” one of Chef Akira’s signature sushi rolls with spicy tuna, prawn tempura, trout belly aburi and chipotle mayo.

Located at 1364 Shopping Center, the restaurant’s design is a marvel of luxury and sophistication. The expansive and well-appointed dining area boasts plush leather seats and luxurious wood and marble finishes, creating an inviting and elegant atmosphere.

The open kitchen, similar to the dynamic setup in all other locations, allows diners to observe the meticulous preparation of their meals, adding an interactive element to their dining experience.

A standout feature of the Riyadh location is a painting by Chef Akira’s mother, which graces the ceiling, adding an artistic and cultural touch to the venue. This unique element reflects the chef’s appreciation for art and family heritage, creating a visually stunning focal point for the restaurant.

About Akira

The Akira Back brand is a diverse portfolio of restaurants and lounges around the globe that pride themselves on creating innovative culinary experiences combined with a social atmosphere and elegant ambiance. The mission statement is to make unforgettable memories for guests by revolutionizing the dining experience through “one-of-a-kind dishes and gracious service.”

A Seoul native and former professional snowboarder, Back spent his early years appearing in extreme sports movies and garnering praise from the sport’s top trade publications. Back eventually retired from snowboarding and took his need for speed and desire for adventure to the kitchen.

Chef Back has since brought his culinary expertise and artistry across the globe. He currently operates 28 locations under his banner in cities such as London, Paris, Las Vegas, Dubai, Beverly Hills and more. He plans to open 10 more over the next two years including: Rome, San Francisco, Taipei and Florence for a global footprint that is unmatched.

Topics: Saudi Arabia Riyadh

Wallan Trading opens Saudi Arabia’s first Lotus showroom

Updated 11 November 2024

Arab News

November 11, 2024 22:54

Wallan Trading opens Saudi Arabia’s first Lotus showroom

Updated 11 November 2024

Arab News

November 11, 2024 22:54

Wallan Trading Company has opened the first Lotus Cars showroom in Riyadh. Fahad Al-Wallan, chairman of Wallan Holding, attended the launch event, alongside Hamza Barakat, head of operations for the Middle East, Africa, and India at Lotus. Senior officials from both companies were joined by guests, customers, and media representatives at the launch.

The showroom is strategically located at I MALL luxury cars on the Northern Ring Branch Road. It offers a range of services, including personalized vehicle customization to meet customers’ unique preferences.

Spanning 900 square meters, the showroom features the all-electric Lotus Eletre and the dynamic Lotus Emira. Both models feature cutting-edge sporty designs and outstanding performance capabilities, offering customers a unique opportunity to explore the Lotus product lineup. Previously, Wallan Trading Company had introduced these models at Via Riyadh at an event during the Riyadh International Entertainment Season, and at the Riyadh Luxury Car Show, where they attracted significant interest from visitors and luxury car enthusiasts alike.

Fahad Al-Wallan attended the launch event, alongside Hamza Barakat.

Chairman Al-Wallan said: “The opening of the first Lotus showroom in the Kingdom marks a significant milestone in Wallan Trading’s ambitious expansion strategy for the Lotus brand. This initiative delivers exceptional support to luxury sports car enthusiasts through an expanding network of sales and service centers, beginning in Riyadh and soon extending to Jeddah, Dammam, and other key regions across Saudi Arabia.”

He added: “Wallan Trading Company is actively aligning itself with the transformative changes that Lotus is bringing to the industry, confidently preparing to navigate future challenges and advancements. This strategy not only underscores the company’s commitment to quality but also reflects the Kingdom’s dedication to environmental sustainability and its objectives to reduce carbon emissions, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative, and the principles of a circular economy.”

The launch follows the announcement in March this year of a strategic partnership between Wallan Trading and Lotus. Under this partnership, Wallan Trading became the authorized distributor of the Lotus brand in Saudi Arabia, marking Lotus’s return to the Saudi market after more than 14 years.

Dan Balmer, president and CEO of Lotus Cars — Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, said: “This flagship showroom represents a significant milestone for Lotus Cars in Saudi Arabia. We are confident that our state-of-the-art lineup will exceed our customers’ expectations in the Kingdom and help us drive growth in this ever-evolving luxury market.”

Barakat said: “Lotus’s re-entry into the Saudi market presents an exciting opportunity to highlight the brand’s innovative designs and state-of-the-art technologies. We take pride in our ongoing collaboration with Wallan Trading. Together, we are committed to ensuring our customers receive the exceptional service they deserve, making their purchasing journey smooth and enjoyable.”

Wallan Holding, through Wallan Investment Company, is a key shareholder in Lotus, which was listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange last year. Lotus is renowned for its expertise in developing and manufacturing luxury electric vehicles, energy management solutions, electric motors, electronic control systems, smart driving technology, and advanced manufacturing techniques.

Retail Congress MENA 2024 spotlights future of retail

Updated 11 November 2024

Arab News

November 11, 2024 22:54

Retail Congress MENA 2024 spotlights future of retail

Updated 11 November 2024

Arab News

November 11, 2024 22:54

The retail industry is on the cusp of a new era, and the Retail Congress MENA 2024 acted as the catalyst for its transformation. This landmark event, which took place on Nov. 4-5 at the Mandarin Oriental, Al-Faisaliah in Riyadh, celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Middle East Council of Shopping Centers and Retailers, which organized the congress.

Themed “GENESIS — IGNITE: The Genesis of Vision 2030, Reigniting Retail,” the congress brought together the brightest minds in the retail industry to explore the latest trends, innovations, and opportunities. In a world where consumer expectations are constantly evolving, retailers must evolve to stay ahead of the curve. The event offered a unique platform to learn from industry leaders, network with peers, and gain valuable insights into the future of retail.

The event featured a packed agenda of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Attendees heard from top industry experts on topics such as:

• Strategic execution: how to effectively implement new strategies and initiatives

• Leadership in times of transformation: the qualities needed to lead a retail business through change

• Sustainability-driven innovation: creating sustainable retail practices that benefit both businesses and the environment

• Cutting-edge retail technologies: the latest trends in technology that are shaping the retail landscape

The congress featured a lineup of world-renowned speakers, including John Sanei, futures strategist at John Sanei Inc., who provided cutting-edge foresight on the retail landscape, guiding businesses on how to thrive amidst emerging industry trends; and Veemal Gungadin, CEO of Gevme, who delved into the powerful role of technology in transforming retail, showcasing how digital innovations are redefining customer experiences.

The Retail Congress MENA 2024 was supported by a diverse range of industry leaders, including Al-Khozama, Al-Othaim Investments, Cenomi Centers, Hamat, Azad Properties, Kinan International Real Estate Development Co., Unified Real Estate Development, RED, and more.

Retail Congress MENA is the premier event for the retail and shopping center industry in the Middle East and North Africa region, organized by the MECS+R.

Since its inception in 1994, the MECS+R has emerged as the cornerstone of the shopping center and retail industry in the region. As a leading trade organization, the MECS+R stands as a dynamic intersection where retail professionals and industry giants converge, fostering a vibrant forum for growth and innovation.

GSMA M360 MENA 2024: Unlocking the future of MENA’s digital transformation