Technology
GITEX to unveil new Startup Movement
GITEX Technology Week will launch and host GITEX STARTUP MOVEMENT, one of the most global startup gatherings in the world with over 30 countries represented, as it brings together entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, mentors and buyers for the first time in Dubai.
The GITEX STARTUP MOVEMENT will convene over 400 startups and more than 1,000 entrepreneurs, investors and mentors from the global startup ecosystem. The exclusive set-up will highlight the most innovative startups around the world and provide them a platform to sell, form partnerships and attract investors. Participants will also be able to pitch for prizes, attend an interactive conference to address challenges faced by entrepreneurs and meet leading industry figures. The initiative has already garnered tremendous interest and momentum from supporters across the globe including Business France, Cross Trade agency in Singapore, Digi Robotics in the UAE, Egypt’s Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA), Japan’s Jetro agency, Marco Trade Export in Morocco, Star Systems agency in Iran and STC from KSA.
Amjad Shacker, Corporate Communication GM at STC, commented, “InspireU is an STC initiative to promote, support and develop digital startups and nurture and consolidate the startup ecosystem in the MENA region and create sustainable value. We believe that “to inspire is to empower” and we do that by providing the directions and tools to budding entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams. STC strongly supports the launch of the GITEX Startup Movement and is proud to co-present the top tier prize of the event to the best global startup.”
“The need for local and regional startup ecosystem consolidation, learning from global best practices, and exposure to global investment network, is imminently evident. STC considers GITEX Startup Movement addressing this need; it will help regional players to learn and mature as well as expose them to the global buyers and investors. STC will showcase the achievements of InspireU by showcasing its incubatees, connect them to the broader network, attract future deal flow and share the roadmap for the future. STC is participating in the Global Startup Movement to inspire and be inspired,” said Shacker.
Eric Morand, Director of Tech & Innovative Services Division at Business France, said, “Business France, as a loyal exhibitor of the GITEX Technology Week, is very happy to be part of the GITEX Startup Movement. We are certain that this new movement will gather regional startup ecosystem as well as well as the global startup ecosystem. This will be therefore, the perfect platform to introduce the French Tech initiative, which proved to be a success in events such as CES, Web summit, 4YFN, etc.”
The Arab world has a burgeoning youth demographic. More than 60 per cent of the 350 million population is under the age of 25. Young millennial Arabs are online, mobile, using technology and becoming entrepreneurs with the strong support of government initiatives. The UAE leads the way in the region on revolutionary smart cities transformation and diversification of economies. Across Middle East & Africa, entrepreneurs are at the heart of the digital revolution as ICT spending increases across the region.
“Startups from all over the globe, women, youth and Arab entrepreneurs are a very real force of change that is making a positive impact in our society. They need supportive ecosystems to nurture and enable their growth and success. GITEX Technology Week has a strong legacy as one of the leading international tech events and is uniquely positioned to turn the spotlight on startups. With a force of 146,000 technology professionals and 22,000 C-suite executives at GITEX, Startups gain immediate access to a powerful industry network and massive technology marketplace, entry into growth markets in Middle East & Africa, and can future-proof their business plans, products and services.” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice-President, Exhibitions and Events Management, Dubai World Trade Centre.
“The Tesla Foundation is proud to be a part of the GITEX Startup Movement. The foundation is focused on building the bridge between private and public organizations to create new technologies and companies and the Middle East & Africa presents a unique opportunity. We have been graced with the strength of government support and the burgeoning entrepreneur scene that is in the region. As a science and technology Foundation focused on robotics and automation, “Cyber-Physical Systems,” GITEX enables us to expand our network by connecting with innovators, entrepreneurs, and companies to include in the Tesla STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Farm System,” said Keith Kaplan, CEO Tesla Foundation.
An automotive company founded in 2003 by a group of engineers in Silicon Valley who wanted to prove that electric cars could be better than gasoline-powered cars, Tesla is also -a technology and design company with a focus on energy innovation.
The public sector in the UAE is already committed to facilitating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship through its AED 2 billion knowledge fund, which is part of the country’s National Innovation Strategy, and aims to accelerate the startup movement towards a sustainable knowledge-based economy.
Further positive announcements such as the establishment of venture firm 500 Startups’ US$30 million fund in the Middle East and North Africa, Uber’s US$ 250 million investment in the region and home grown UAE startup, Souq.com who recently secured US$ 275 million investment to be the highest valued internet company in the Middle East, are testaments to rising MENA entrepreneurship scene where vibrant and growing economies present untapped and unchartered opportunities.
The rise in the number of exits in the region has also garnered the attention and interest of serious venture capitalists, proving that the savvy investor stands to gain by investing in the region. In 2015, high-profile exits include Turkey’s food delivery startup Yemeksepti that sold for US$589 million, Kuwait’s Talabat.com that sold for US$170 million and Fawry, an electronic payment platform that sold for US$100 million.
GITEX STARTUP MOVEMENT will form the centrepiece of the 2016 edition with emerging technologies sectors in the region equally set to benefit, as the event will showcase IoT applications, next-gen technologies and digital marketing solutions that are expected to revolutionise the global economy by 2025.
The Middle East, through its early adoption of emerging and next-gen technologies is poised to benefit from the global industrial shift and startup organisations in the region are well positioned to become innovators and leaders. The region is already projected to spend around US$60 billion on 3D Printing, Robotics, Drones, Digital Marketing and Smart Living/Wearables by 2020.
As the Middle East embarks upon rapid transformations towards Smart Cities, the demand for innovative solutions is ever increasing. GITEX STARTUP MOVEMENT will connect entrepreneurs with key government buyers, VCs, angel investors, seed capital and mentors from around the world.
“The marketplace is wide open for disruption and innovation by both established technology providers and startups. Technology buyers are hungry to differentiate themselves from their competition. They are open to be early adopters of technology that can revolutionize their customer experience or open up new market possibilities in key industries such as retail, healthcare, education, finance, travel and energy. GITEX STARTUP MOVEMENT will provide that breadth and depth of technology and services for all our trade visitors invested in innovation and enterprise,” LohMirmand said.
Delegates will be have the opportunity to visit country zones and showcase pods that will feature the most exciting startups offering drones & robotics; IoT, AR, VR & AI; finance; retail; healthcare; education; energy; travel & hospitality; media & marketing; and transport & logistics, to name a few.
GITEX Technology Week will feature dedicated zones that will showcase exhibitors and live demonstrations of emerging solutions and providers from 3D Printing, Robotics, Drones, Digital Marketing, Wearables and IoT and Smart Living, as well as industry Vertical Days to streamline the visitor experience looking for specialist knowledge. GITEX brings together, leaders, influencers and innovators from the industry and a compelling programme of networking sessions.
GITEX Technology Week is expected to attract more than 146,000 visitors from over 140 countries, including 22,000 C-suite executives and 3,500 exhibitors from 55 countries.
GITEX Technology Week runs from 16-20 October 2016 at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
Tech News
MaktabiTech: Pioneering the Future of AV Innovation in Saudi Arabia

By Banan Masri – Managing Partner (MaktabiTech)

At MaktabiTech, we don’t just offer technology—we craft experiences that transform the way businesses collaborate, communicate, and innovate. We specialize in designing innovation hubs and experience centers that go beyond the ordinary. These environments are thoughtfully engineered to support cognitive collaboration, stimulating creativity and fostering deeper engagement. By integrating cutting-edge AV solutions, our spaces enable organizations to unlock new levels of productivity, efficiency, and innovation. Whether it’s high-tech boardrooms, immersive experience zones, or smart environments that adapt to your needs, we make sure each project delivers not only on functionality but on the potential to inspire and change.
But our expertise doesn’t stop there. From high-tech boardrooms and mission-critical command centers to large-scale digital signage, we don’t just integrate AV technology—we engineer ecosystems that enhance human interaction and business efficiency. We take pride in our ability to transform abstract ideas into dynamic, interactive spaces that push boundaries and deliver extraordinary results.
More Than AV—We Build Experiences
At MaktabiTech, innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s at the heart of everything we do. Our team of skilled professionals brings unmatched expertise to every project, combining the best of technology, creativity, and client collaboration. From the initial concept to post-installation support, we ensure that every aspect of your AV system works flawlessly and is tailored specifically to your needs.
✔ Expert Team, Smart Solutions – With years of experience and a deep understanding of the AV landscape, our team of engineers and designers ensures that every solution we provide is not only innovative but also practical and sustainable.
✔ Client-Centric Approach – We pride ourselves on building lasting relationships with our clients, offering personalized solutions that align perfectly with their unique business requirements.
✔ Post-Installation Excellence – Our commitment doesn’t end once the system is installed. We offer ongoing support, training, and optimization to ensure your systems continue to perform at their best.
✔ Timely Execution, Every Time – We understand the importance of meeting deadlines and executing projects on schedule. Our meticulous planning ensures that your AV solution is delivered without compromise.
✔ Shaping the Future with AI & Automation – We are at the cutting edge of integrating AI-driven solutions into AV technology, not only improving system functionality but creating new job opportunities and empowering the workforce of the future.
Tech News
Aster DM Healthcare launches myAster in Saudi Arabia, alongside AI and Generative AI-enabled Arabic voice response with Google Cloud

Aster DM Healthcare marks a significant milestone with the launch of its flagship digital health platform, myAster, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This launch aligns with Aster’s ambitious plans to expand its footprint in the Kingdom and transform the healthcare experience for the people of the country.
With a proven track record as the UAE’s No.1 wellbeing and healthcare app and over 2 million downloads, myAster is set to redefine digital healthcare in Saudi Arabia. The app offers an all-encompassing suite of services, including online pharmacy, prescription home delivery, appointment management, video consultation, and home care services.
As part of its launch at the prestigious LEAP 2025 event, myAster unveiled a groundbreaking feature: AI and gen AI voice integration in collaboration with Google Cloud. This advanced capability introduces Arabic voice response, allowing users to describe their symptoms in their native dialect for personalized and culturally relevant interactions. The AI-driven symptom analysis guides users to the most appropriate specialists or healthcare services within Aster’s network. By bridging language barriers and enhancing accessibility, this innovation underscores Aster’s dedication to delivering inclusive and patient-centric healthcare solutions in Saudi Arabia.
Designed to meet the diverse needs of users, myAster empowers individuals to track their health vitals, access lab reports and health records, and benefit from chronic disease management programs tailored to address lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. With these features, myAster provides a comprehensive solution for users to proactively manage their wellness journey.
Commenting on the launch of myAster in Saudi Arabia, Alisha Moopen, Managing Director & Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare said “The launch of myAster in Saudi Arabia is a pivotal moment in our journey to bring integrated and accessible healthcare solutions to the Kingdom. With the introduction of myAster, we continue to lead the digital revolution in the GCC, reaffirming our commitment to building a future-ready healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes convenience, accessibility, and innovation.”
Nalla Karunanithy, CEO of Digital Health and E-Commerce, Aster DM Healthcare added “myAster not only empowers individuals to take charge of their health but also bridges the gap between patients and specialists by guiding them to the right care based on real-time symptom analysis. By leveraging AI and collaborating with Google Cloud, we’re setting a new standard for digital healthcare innovation. As we continue to innovate, our vision is to build a future where healthcare is not only smarter and more efficient but also deeply human-centered, meeting the unique needs of every individual we serve.”
“Unlocking solutions that empower customers remains the most critical component of every enterprise’s digital transformation strategy,” said Bader Almadi, Google Cloud GM in Saudi Arabia at Google Cloud. “Using Google Cloud’s AI and generative AI technologies, Aster DM Healthcare aims to transform the patient experience with myAster. The introduction of Arabic voice response, powered by our advanced AI models, makes healthcare more accessible and personalized for the people of Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the potential of AI to revolutionize how healthcare is delivered.”
Aster DM Healthcare has pledged an investment of SAR 1 billion (USD 250 million) in Saudi Arabia over the next 2-3 years, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare in the region. This investment will support the expansion of Aster Pharmacy to 180 stores across the Kingdom, while also scaling bed capacity to 1,000 through the establishment of five new hospitals in major cities alongside the existing Aster Sanad Hospital.
Additionally, Aster plans to launch 30 medical centers to reinforce its integrated healthcare model and provide employment opportunities to approximately 4,900 people in the Kingdom over the next five years. The introduction of myAster is a pivotal component of this strategy, designed to deliver a seamless connected care experience for the residents of Saudi Arabia.
Tech News
ATLAB announces winners of ‘FIRST LEGO League,’ recognising UAE’s young innovators in robotics

The FIRST LEGO League (FLL) 2024-25 season, hosted by ATLAB, a subsidiary of the Centena Group, in collaboration with FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) and LEGO Education, announced the national winners from across the UAE during the grand finale of the ‘CHALLENGE’ category on February 9, 2025. The awards recognised young innovators from 42 participating teams for their exceptional creativity, problem-solving skills and teamwork in robotics and STEM.
The Champion’s Winner Award was presented to Team ‘ACE’ from Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, with Team ‘PELAGIC PIONEERS’ from DPS (Delhi Private School) – Sharjah as first runner-up and Team ‘METAL MECH’ from Gems International School – Al Khail as the second runner-up.

In the Robot Performance category, Team ‘SEATROTTERS’ from Gems Millenium School – Sharjah emerged as winners, followed by Team ‘ACE’ from Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences first runner-up and Team ‘MARINE X’ from Gems Millenium School Sharjah as the second runner-up.
The winners for Robot Design were Team ‘AQUA RAPTORZ’ from DPS – Sharjah, with Team ‘SEATROTTERS’ from Gems Millenium School – Sharjah as first runner-up and Team ‘CODEBREAKERS 2.0’ from Emerging Stars Institute as second runner-up.
The Innovation Project award went to Team ‘MAWJ MYSTERY MASTERS (M CUBE)’ from DPS – Sharjah, with Team ‘HYDRATECH’ from Mayoor Pvt School as first runner-up and Team ‘NMS HYDROBOTS’ from Gems New Millennium School – Al Khail as second runner-up.
Finally, the Core Values award was won by Team ‘AIS_TECHTITANS’ from Abu Dhabi International Pvt School, while Team ‘ABYSSAL EXPLORERS’ from Abu Dhabi Indian School secured first runner-up position and ‘DIAEH TEAM 2’ from Dubai International Academy – Emirates Hill secured the second runner-up position.
This year, the competition included the Motivate Award, which was presented to Team ‘REEF RANGERS’ from Diyar Private Academy Early Years and Girl’s Campus Dibba, Fujairah in recognition of their exceptional team spirit, enthusiasm, and commitment to the core values of the FIRST LEGO League.
Charbel Najjar, the coach of Team ACE from Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences said: “The competition provided us with a dynamic platform to exhibit our innovative concepts and gain valuable experience in the realms of problem-solving, teamwork, and STEM-related skills. We aim to carry this experience forward and continue to participate in similar competitions.”
The winners in the CHALLENGE category were assessed on the basis of their robot design, performance, innovation projects and core values. Team ACE that received the Champion’s Winner Award are qualified for the international-level competition, which is held in the USA at the World Festival – Houston, Texas. Apart from this, selected teams will compete in the international competitions across the world; AIS_TECHTITANS from Abu Dhabi International Pvt School in Greece, SEATROTTERS from Gems Millenium School – Sharjah in South Africa, AQUA RAPTORZ from DPS – Sharjah and METAL MECH from Gems International School- Al Khail in Australia and PELAGIC PIONEERS from DPS – Sharjah in USA.
Nilesh Korgaonkar, CEO of ATLAB said: “The exceptional projects created by these innovators may not be directly implemented, but they might inspire real-world solutions at an international level or adopted by organisations or countries associated with FIRST. This competition is a platform for students to showcase their creativity, gain valuable experience and contribute to solving real-world problems. We are immensely proud of all the participants and winners who seized this opportunity. To ensure high-quality evaluation, we meticulously selected judges with expertise in STEM education and robotics.”
The teams were judged by esteemed professionals from different backgrounds, representing institutions, universities and schools across the UAE from both governmental and private organisations. This year’s grand finale was further enriched by the presence of special guest Rasna Hussain, a CCDI Teacher and Trainer at the UAE’s Ministry of Education, whose expertise spans Robotics, STEM Training, artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning.
In line with the UAE’s vision to foster a knowledge-based economy and empower future generations, initiatives like the FIRST LEGO League play a vital role in nurturing young innovators. By providing a platform to showcase creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, ATLAB reaffirms its commitment to supporting the nation’s aspirations for innovation and excellence in STEM fields.
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