Why flexibility is non-negotiable in the Middle East’s AI transformation journey

By Feras A. Al-Al Shaikh, Regional Director, Saudi Arabia, North Gulf, Levant

Adrian Pickering, Regional General Manager, Middle East and North Africa

Martin Lentle, VP Middle East & Africa

7th June, 2026 – In the dynamic digital landscape of the Middle East, we are seeing a shift from AI experimentation to production-ready innovation. This transition is becoming a key factor in driving national competitiveness and economic resilience across the region.

The opportunity ahead is significant. Projections suggest AI could contribute USD 320 billion to the Middle East’s economy by 2030, with Egypt expected to generate nearly 8% of its GDP from AI in the same timeframe.

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Empowering Women in the Digital Economy: Dubai Conference Insights

Dubai Hosts “Women’s Gateway to the Digital Economy” Conference with Broad Regional and International Participation

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Under the patronage and in the presence of Sheikha Wafa bint Humaid Al Mualla, the Sheikha Wafa bint Humaid Al Mualla Community Initiatives Foundation organized the “Women’s Gateway to the Digital Economy” Conference in Dubai under the theme “Empowerment • Innovation • Impact,” bringing together government leaders, institutional representatives, entrepreneurs, and international experts from across the Gulf region and beyond.

The conference served as a high-level platform for dialogue and collaboration, highlighting the growing role of women in shaping the future of the digital economy and advancing sustainable development through innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship.

In her opening remarks, Sheikha Wafa bint Humaid Al Mualla emphasized that Gulf and Arab women have become key partners in building the future digital economy, noting that economic and social development are inseparable pillars of progress. She stressed that investing in women’s capabilities remains one of the most important drivers of sustainable growth and innovation.

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Norway Chess 2026 Concludes with Praggnanandhaa and Assaubayeva as Champions

Praggnanandhaa wins Norway Chess 2026 after finalround classical victory

June 6, Oslo – Norway Chess 2026 concluded in Oslo on Friday with a dramatic final round, as PraggnanandhaaRameshbabu delivered a decisive classical victory to claim the title. Entering the round half a point behind Wesley So, Praggnanandhaa knew that a victory would put him in a strong position to overtake the leader. Facing Vincent Keymer with the white pieces, the Indian grandmaster made the most of his opportunity and converted a crucial win.

Credit: Norway Chess / Michal Walusza or Norway Chess / Signator

The full 3 points lifted Praggnanandhaa to 18 points and secured first place. Wesley So, who had led the tournament heading into the final day, drew his classical game against Alireza Firouzja after a balanced encounter. So later prevailed in the Armageddon game, collecting the extra points. Firouzja finishes third after a strong tournament in Oslo. The remaining game between World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen and World Champion GukeshDommaraju ended with a classical win for Carlsen. The Norwegian star kept pushing in a long battle and finished the event on a winning note. After Round 10, PraggnanandhaaRameshbabu wins Norway Chess 2026 with 18 points.

Credit: Norway Chess / Michal Walusza or Norway Chess / Signator

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Emirates Recycling Awards 2026: Celebrating Sustainable Practices

Emirates Environmental Group Celebrates the 29thCycle of Emirates Recycling Awardsin Commemoration of World Environment Day 2026

Dubai, UAE – June 5, 2026

Under the esteemed patronage and presence of H.H. Engr. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Civil Aviation Authority, Member of the Executive Council of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, and Honorary Member of the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), the organisation proudly celebrated the 29thCycle of the Emirates Recycling Awards in conjunction with World Environment Day 2026, held under the global theme: “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”

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Norway Chess 2026: Assaubayeva Wins Women’s Title in Final Round

Norway Chess 2026 Heads to Decisive Final Round as Assaubayeva Clinches Women’s Title

So remains in front as Praggnanandhaa and Firouzja keep pressure on

June 5, Oslo – Round 9 of Norway Chess 2026 delivered a dramatic penultimate day in Oslo, with the Norway Chess title race still wide-open heading into Friday’s final round. Wesley So’s classical game against World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen ended in a draw after a balanced encounter. So then won the Armageddon game, securing the extra points and preserving his lead before the final round. PraggnanandhaaRameshbabu scored the key classical victory of the day, defeating World Champion GukeshDommaraju with the black pieces.

Credit: Norway Chess / Michal Walusza or Norway Chess / Signator

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