Author: Mahdeehassan

The AI-Powered Chatbot not only utilises advanced Generative AI technology to offer human-like, conversational support, but does so through both voice and text commands, providing instant, accurate, and accessible information for customers travelling to the UK. Developed by VFS Global’s AI team, headquartered in Dubai, the AI-Powered Chatbot addresses the increasing demand for efficient customer support, allowing users to easily access the information needed to navigate the application process. Jen Vidler, Deputy Director, Cross Cutting Service Operations, Visa, Status and Information Services, Customer Services Group, UK Visas and Immigration, said, “The rollout of VFS Global’s AI-powered chatbot demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring our visa services…

Object 1 has announced the launch of LUM1NAR TOWERS, a new residential development in Jumeirah Village Triangle. Featuring three architecturally distinct towers, the project offers 547 residences designed to provide a modern living experience with smart technology, contemporary aesthetics, and thoughtfully curated amenities. Set for completion by 2027, the development blends convenience, connectivity, and elevated living in one of Dubai’s most sought-after communities. Jumeirah Village Triangle is experiencing significant demand, with transaction volumes rising by 62% in the first 1.5 months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Property values in the area have also increased, with the…

Today, CNTXT AI launches TestAI, the GCC’s first AI validation platform, ensuring AI-powered voice interactions are accurate, functional and deployment-ready . AI-powered agents are transforming industries, automating customer interactions, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. However, many are deployed without proper validation, leading to errors and loss of trust. With the voice AI agent market set to grow from $11.2 billion in 2025 to $45 billion by 2032, organizations cannot afford to deploy AI without being fully prepared and user-ready. “AI models are being deployed without standardized oversight. Without rigorous testing, businesses expose themselves to financial and reputational risks” said Mohammad…

AppliedAI has announced raising $55 million in a Series A funding round led by G42, with participation from Palantir, Bessemer Venture Partners, McKinsey, and Accrete Capital. This round comes after the company’s pre-investment valuation reached $300 million. Previously, the company raised $42 million in 2022 from G42 and the Al Maktoum family. The new funding will be used to develop AI tools and expand the team to support more clients in the U.S. and Europe. Founded in London in 2021, the company relocated to Abu Dhabi the following year to benefit from government grants. AppliedAI specialises in automating office tasks…

GO Sport Opens its First Store in Ramallah, Palestine. GO Sport is thrilled to announce the opening of its first store in Palestine, located in Ramallah — marking a significant step in the brand’s expansion across the Middle East. Globally recognized for their high-performance, multi-branded sporting goods, this store not only reinforces GO Sport’s commitment to delivering high-quality sports and lifestyle products but also represents a meaningful investment in the Palestinian market, fostering local development and empowering the community. The new Ramallah store offers an exceptional selection of sportswear, footwear, and equipment, catering to fitness enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and team…

Dubai, UAE –– CNTXT and Oracle continue to advance their strategic collaboration, reinforcing their shared vision for AI innovation and enterprise transformation. Their collaboration, which was highlighted during Oracle Cloud World Tour, is focused on helping businesses and government entities accelerate AI adoption with secure, scalable solutions. During Oracle Cloud World, Mohammad Abu Sheikh, Founder and CEO of CNTXT, and Cherian Varghese, Senior Vice President of Cloud Infrastructure, AI for EMEA at Oracle, engaged in an in-depth discussion on AI readiness, data security, and the evolving AI landscape. Their conversation underscored the growing role of AI in enterprise operations and…

Khazna, a leading financial super app that offers easy-to-use, technology-driven financial services to underserved segments, announces closing a $16 million pre-Series B funding round. The round saw participation from new and existing investors, including SANAD Fund for MSME, anb Seed Fund (managed by anb Capital), Aljazira Capital (the investment arm of Bank Aljazira of Saudi Arabia), Khwarizmi Ventures, Nclude (the fintech fund set up by Egypt’s largest national banks), ICU Ventures, Quona, Speedinvest and Disruptech Ventures. This round of funding underscores investor confidence in Khazna’s world-class team, innovative business model, and significant potential to transform the digital banking industry across…

Today, Meta announced the expansion of its AI assistant, Meta AI, to the Middle East and North Africa, empowering users in the region with a tool to learn, create and connect to the things and people they care about most. The feature is gradually rolling out across the region, with full accessibility already available in key markets including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, and Iraq. Conveniently located across Meta’s family of apps—Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger—Meta AI is easily accessible through its blue circle icon within Meta’s apps and requires no prior registration. It can also be…

Saudi Arabia’s MSME finance ecosystem at the heart of economic diversification and financial inclusion efforts Saudi Arabia, February 2025: The pivotal role of Saudi Arabia’s finance ecosystem for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in advancing the Kingdom’s economic diversification and financial inclusion objectives is explored in a new report released by Oxford Business Group (OBG), in collaboration with the Kafalah programme. Titled, “MSME Empowerment in Saudi Arabia,” the report examines the country’s strategic efforts to drive the growth of MSMEs by improving access to finance and fostering entrepreneurship. It highlights how the Kingdom is leveraging tailored financial solutions to…

Abu Dhabi, February 4, 2025 – Smpl Fund I, a $10 million venture capital fund launched by Smpl Holdings, has announced a strategic investment of $250,000 in multiple AI and technology companies within the Qora71 portfolio. Smpl Fund I, which focuses on supporting AI and tech startups across the MENA region and beyond, provides seed capital alongside hands-on strategic support to accelerate the growth of innovative companies. Qora71, a venture investor syndicate and a member of the Hub71 Angel Program, offers accredited investors the opportunity to invest on a deal-by-deal basis, without minimum commitments or fees. The syndicate’s portfolio includes…