
Enterprise AI Execution Gap Archives
Mahmood Lockhat, Chief Technology Officer at TeKnowledge, discusses the execution gap faced by many organisations when it comes to AI and how their new partnership with Kore.ai aims to address this in this exclusive op-ed.
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Gulf Business
3 hours ago
- Gulf Business
Expo 2030 Riyadh secures final BIE approval as host nation
Saudi Arabia's capital has officially been confirmed as the host of The approval marks the last formal step in the selection process, solidifying Riyadh's status as the next World Expo host. As part of the proceedings, the World Expo flag was ceremonially handed over to the kingdom's delegation by the BIE. The Saudi delegation was led by Engineer Ibrahim Al-Sultan, Minister of State and Acting CEO of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), alongside Fahd bin Mayouf Al-Ruwaili, Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to France, and senior officials. 'The approval of the registration dossier in record time highlights the kingdom's leadership on the global stage and underscores the world's confidence in Saudi Arabia's vision and capabilities,' Al-Sultan said, adding that it also reflects 'the high level of professionalism' shown by the teams involved in its preparation. Master plan for Expo 2030 Riyadh The registration dossier acts as a master plan for the expo, outlining Saudi Arabia's commitment to delivering a global platform for innovation, international cooperation, and sustainable development. Riyadh is the first The approval now paves the way for the next phase of preparations, including the formal invitation of international participants through diplomatic channels. Expo 2030 Riyadh will take place from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031, on a sprawling six million- square-metre site, designed to accommodate over 40 million visits. Organisers anticipate participation from more than 195 nations, supported by cutting-edge infrastructure, hospitality, and transportation. The site is being developed to deliver an immersive and seamless visitor experience, in line with the broader ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030. Billed as one of the largest and most ambitious expos to date, Expo 2030 Riyadh aims to foster global dialogue, innovation, and cultural exchange, while leaving a lasting legacy that resonates far beyond the kingdom's borders.


Zawya
18 hours ago
- Zawya
Jordan Source strengthens tech and investment ties in Europe with an official delegation to Germany
A high-level delegation from Jordan Source, representing the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship (MoDEE), continued the program's efforts to activate collaboration, transfer knowledge, and build bridges between Jordan and European innovation powerhouses, spearheading an official visit to Germany. The delegation, which included 16 representatives from both public and private sectors, focused on attracting foreign investment and showcasing Jordan's growing capabilities in the ICT and outsourcing industries. Led by MoDEE officials, the business delegation featured representatives from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply (MoITS) and Jordan Export. The government officials were accompanied by leaders from prominent Jordanian tech companies, which included CEOs and founders Alaa Muqattash of Advanced Business Solutions (ABS); Ahmad Bourini of Denamica; Yazan Tadros of EduHax; Zaidoun Karadsheh of Media Plus and BeeLabs; Omar Asa'd of SmartEye; and Faris Aloul of Vamu. Each of these companies corresponded to Jordan Source's strategic focus areas, including cybersecurity, gaming, information technology outsourcing (ITO), business processing outsourcing (BPO), education technology, and creative industries. Held from 3rd to 9th of May, the visit was organized by Jordan Source with support from MoITS and the Innovative Private Sector Development Approaches for Employment Promotion (I-PSD) project, implemented by GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). This collaboration, further supported by Gateway Jordan—led by Oliver Gerbert—and the Saarland Economic Promotion Corporation, aimed to ensure comprehensive access to key stakeholders and innovation hubs across Germany, thereby maximizing opportunities for impactful engagements and the establishment of valuable connections. The delegation kicked off their activities in Berlin (3–7 May) with a visit to the Startup Unit of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) to explore Germany's startup support models and exchange insights on digital innovation. The delegation then continued to engage with the German Startups Association in an open discussion on ecosystem building, data-driven policymaking, and startup advocacy, gaining deeper insights into how the association supports over 1,200 members across all levels and regions. Furthermore, the trip to Berlin explored joint investments between Jordan and Germany in future-ready skills and workforce developments. The delegation shared its vision and innovations in digital learning with the Digital Education Lab (DEL) by the Berlin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), as well as Christiani Competence Centres, opening the doors for collaboration in digital and vocational education. Wrapping up the first part of the official visit, Jordan Source met with RESPOND Accelerator by BMW Foundation for an exchange on impact-driven startups and leaders shaping the future of sustainable innovation. This dialogue laid the foundation for fostering purpose-led tech and building global partnerships that drive positive change. Upon landing in Saarbrücken (7–9 May), the Jordan Source delegation strategically aimed to establish high-level connections and showcase Jordan's tech sector. A key briefing with the Saarland Economic Promotion Corporation introduced Jordan's leading technology companies to the European stage, laying the groundwork for future collaborations and highlighting mutual economic opportunities. The delegation also dedicated significant time to exploring the forefront of German research and innovation. Visits to leading institutions such as DFKI, specializing in advanced AI, and the dynamic innovation hub at Universität des Saarlandes provided invaluable insights into cutting-edge technologies and the synergy between academia and entrepreneurship. These engagements aimed to foster potential avenues for joint research, knowledge exchange, and the adoption of best practices. Furthermore, the delegation immersed itself in Saarbrücken's vibrant innovation ecosystem to identify concrete collaboration opportunities and strategic alliances. Interactions with collaborative spaces like East Side Fab and Halle 4 facilitated direct engagement with startups and ecosystem builders. Parallel discussions with The August-Wilhelm Scheer Institute and Dehub AI focused on leveraging digital transformation and applied AI to enhance Jordan's role in the global tech value chain, actively seeking tangible partnerships for long-term growth and mutual benefit. Jordan Source's successful visit to Germany underscores its mission to position the Kingdom as a regional hub for ICT investments and outsourcing. By building bridges between Jordanian and German tech ecosystems, the mission highlights Jordan's role as a rising leader in the global digital economy.


Zawya
18 hours ago
- Zawya
Sohar International and Sohar Islamic partner with SalamAir to offer ip to 40% off on domestic flights for cardholders
Muscat: In a move to drive cross-sector collaboration and enhance customer experience, Sohar International, together with its Islamic banking window Sohar Islamic, has partnered with SalamAir, Oman's low-cost airline, to offer exclusive discounts on domestic travel for their customers. As part of this strategic alliance, credit cardholders will benefit from a 40% discount, while debit cardholders will receive a 15% discount on the price of all SalamAir domestic flights. The offer, valid for travel between 01 July and 31 August 2025, is available exclusively to Sohar International and Sohar Islamic cardholders. Bookings must be made online via SalamAir's official website using the promo codes provided by Sohar International and Sohar Islamic for both their debit and credit card holders, subject to the offer's terms and conditions. The partnership was formally signed during a signing ceremony held on Tuesday, June 17th, at Sohar International's head office. The joint initiative reflects both entities' commitment to delivering integrated lifestyle benefits and enriching customer value, and to Oman's national development objectives by promoting domestic tourism and enhancing air travel accessibility. Commenting on the strategic importance of the partnership, Mr. Abdul Qadir Al Sumali, Chief Retail & Premier Banking Officer of Sohar International, stated: "Today, banking is no longer just transactional; it must be transformative. At Sohar International, our strategy is rooted in a clear and impactful philosophy—to enrich the lives of those we serve by building integrated ecosystems where finance intersects seamlessly with lifestyle. Our partnership with SalamAir, a leading national low-cost carrier that caters to the travel needs of a broad and diverse customer base, brings this vision to life—delivering everyday value through enhanced convenience, satisfaction, and integrated experiences. More than just a customer offer, this initiative contributes to stimulating domestic air travel, supporting local tourism, and reinforcing our role in advancing Oman's economic diversification agenda in line with Oman Vision 2040." Reiterating this sentiment, Steven Allen, Chief Commercial Officer of SalamAir, added: 'We are proud to collaborate with Sohar International on this meaningful initiative. SalamAir remains deeply committed to supporting the local economy, infrastructure, and financial ecosystem of Oman. This partnership not only reinforces our dedication to making travel more accessible and affordable for the people of Oman but also strengthens domestic tourism, particularly to destinations like Salalah, which play a vital role in the country's tourism sector. By extending this offer to all Sohar International and Sohar Islamic debit and credit cardholders, we aim to promote inclusive travel, encourage local exploration, and contribute to Oman's long-term development goals in line with Oman`s Vision 2040.' Through this strategic collaboration, Sohar International and SalamAir reinforce their commitment to building cross-sector partnerships that enhance customer value and expand the role of banking and aviation beyond traditional boundaries. By aligning financial solutions with evolving travel lifestyle needs, both parties continue to lead with a forward-looking approach that integrates relevance, innovation, and impact into its service offerings. About Sohar International Sohar International is Oman's fastest-growing bank, guided by a clear vision to become a world-leading Omani service company that helps customers, communities, and people prosper and grow. With a purpose to help people 'win' by delivering responsive banking for their ever-changing world, the bank offers innovative solutions across Commercial and Investment Banking, Wealth Management, Islamic Banking, and more. Operating with a strong digital-first approach and an expanding regional footprint—including presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—Sohar International is committed to driving value through strategic partnerships and a dynamic customer experience. Learn more at About SalamAir SalamAir currently operates a fleet of 13 Airbus A320/321 aircraft, with over 80 daily flights. In 2025, the airline will expand its fleet with two new aircraft scheduled for delivery in July 2025. SalamAir announced a 10-aircraft order in February 2025, aiming to grow its fleet to 25 aircraft by 2028 For more information, visit or .