Tech Features

The Role of Edge Computing and Spatial Data in Urban Development in the Middle East

Published

10 months ago

November 26, 2024

Dr. Fadi Alhaddadin, Assistant Professor, Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Heriot-Watt University Dubai.

As urbanisation accelerates in the Middle East, cities are evolving into hubs of innovation to address population growth, manage limited resources, and enhance quality of life. Smart cities are central to the region’s digital transformation, with the integration of spatial data and edge computing revolutionising urban planning. These technologies allow for distributed data processing at the network’s edge, reshaping the management of infrastructure, resources, and citizens. In this article, Dr. Fadi Alhaddadin explores the impact of edge computing and spatial data on the transformation of Middle Eastern cities, offering recent statistics and regional examples.

The Rise of Smart Cities in the Middle East

The smart city concept appeals to many countries in the Middle East as they work towards a better future reliant on technological innovations. Nations such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia have taken a leading role in these strategies by applying modern technologies in their cities’ administration, providing services, and maintaining living conditions.

This transformation has been accelerated by a key factor: edge computing. Edge computing refers to a computing architecture that processes data at its source, rather than relying exclusively on centralised cloud systems. By minimising latency and improving the quality of real-time outcomes, edge computing meets the demands of smart cities. It enables the integration of spatial data—information about the location of objects or events—into urban planning, infrastructure development, and the provision of public services.

Augmenting Infrastructure through Edge Computing

Infrastructure forms the foundation of any smart initiative, and the Middle East is increasingly leveraging edge computing to optimise the management of its critical systems. For roads, bridges, water, and energy grids, edge computing enables real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, reducing operational costs and enhancing efficiency.

In Dubai, as part of the Smart Dubai program, edge computing has been integrated into the city’s urban infrastructure to manage traffic and promote public transport use. Sensors and IoT devices across the city enable real-time data collection, allowing traffic control systems to adjust signals, re-route vehicles, and swiftly reduce delays.

Moreover, NEOM, a smart city under construction in Saudi Arabia, is utilising edge computing to manage its transportation networks, nuclear facilities, and renewable energy grids. With a focus on real-time data analysis, NEOM aims to reduce energy consumption and create a fully sustainable urban ecosystem. Projections suggest that by 2030, this smart city could contribute up to $48 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP, showcasing the economic potential of embracing advanced technologies.

Optimising Resource Management

The third crucial aspect of urbanisation is efficient resource management, which, in the Middle East, largely involves handling limited natural resources like water and energy. The integration of edge computing and spatial data presents significant opportunities to optimise the use of these essential resources.

Adopting these technologies also supports the growth of the region’s renewable energy sector. Masdar City in the UAE, recognised as one of the world’s most sustainable urban areas, utilises edge computing to monitor and manage its solar power systems. By applying geospatial data on solar irradiance and weather conditions, Masdar City ensures its solar panels operate at peak efficiency. This reliance on renewable energy has enabled the city to reduce its dependence on conventional energy sources, with most of its power coming from sustainable resources.

Enhancing Citizen Engagement

One notable impact of smart city technologies is the improvement of citizen engagement. By leveraging edge computing to integrate spatial data, cities can better tailor their services to meet residents’ needs, enhancing overall efficiency. This fosters active participation and greater satisfaction among citizens, who can play a role in managing the urban environment.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the integration of edge computing and spatial data holds significant potential, it also presents certain challenges. The primary concern is data security and privacy, as the increased generation of data at the network’s edge raises the risk of cyber threats. To ensure the success of smart cities, robust cybersecurity measures must be put in place to safeguard the core systems.

Additionally, these technologies often require substantial investment in infrastructure, such as 5G networks and IoT devices. Achieving scalability and sustainability in smart city initiatives would demand collaboration between government and private sector stakeholders.

Despite these challenges, the opportunities far outweigh the risks. With the growing adoption of edge computing and spatial data, Middle Eastern cities are well-positioned to develop sustainable, resilient urban centers that prioritise citizens while driving economic growth.

Conclusion

The integration of edge computing and spatial data is fundamental to the Middle East’s vision for smart cities. These technologies are reshaping urban environments by improving infrastructure, optimising resource management, and boosting citizen engagement. Cities such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Riyadh are leading the way, demonstrating how technology can create smarter, greener cities for the future. Although this transformation is still in its early stages, the region has the potential to become a trailblazer in the smart city revolution.

Tech Features

Sustainable AI Practices Driving Ethical and Green Tech

Published

1 month ago

August 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

By Mansour Al Ajmi, CEO of X-Shift

Sustainable AI practices are no longer optional—they are essential for shaping technology that benefits both people and the planet. As artificial intelligence transforms industries from healthcare to transportation, the challenge is to ensure its growth is ethical, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive. This means addressing not only energy efficiency and carbon reduction but also governance, fairness, and long-term societal impacts.

Why Sustainable AI Practices Go Beyond the Environment?

AI is now deeply embedded in investment strategies, medical diagnostics, media platforms, and public infrastructure. While reducing energy usage is vital, true sustainability also requires ethical governance and the elimination of bias.

For example, biased training datasets can unintentionally reinforce social inequality. Studies, such as those from the MIT Media Lab, have shown that some AI systems perform poorly with diverse populations, highlighting the risk of discrimination. Addressing this means conducting regular algorithmic audits, enforcing transparency, and ensuring diverse representation in AI development teams.

The Environmental Impact of AI

Training advanced AI models consumes enormous computational resources. The process can generate carbon emissions equivalent to hundreds of long-haul flights. To counter this, tech leaders are investing in renewable energy and designing energy-efficient processors and cooling systems.

However, sustainable AI practices should become the default, not the exception. From sourcing materials responsibly to rethinking hardware infrastructure, the focus must be on green innovation by design.

Embedding Sustainability at the Strategic Core

Sustainable AI practices work best when integrated into an organization’s core strategy. Aligning AI solutions with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can directly support climate action, reduce inequalities, and promote responsible consumption.

In the Middle East, initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence demonstrate how sustainability and AI can align with national priorities. These strategies not only meet ethical standards but also deliver competitive advantages, building consumer trust and fostering innovation.

Governance for Responsible AI

Strong governance is key to ensuring sustainable AI practices are upheld. Regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union’s AI Act, guide transparency, accountability, and fairness.

Governance should enable innovation while preventing harm. Public-private partnerships, global cooperation, and industry alliances are critical to creating ethical, scalable, and resilient AI ecosystems.

Preparing the Workforce for the AI Era

McKinsey estimates that AI adoption could displace up to 800 million jobs by 2030. Sustainable AI practices must include reskilling and upskilling initiatives to ensure inclusive economic growth.

By investing in training programs, organizations can help employees transition to new roles in AI-related fields. This proactive approach strengthens workforce agility and supports long-term resilience.

Leadership’s Role in Driving Sustainable AI Practices

AI can significantly advance sustainability goals, from optimizing supply chains to reducing environmental waste. Companies like Unilever are already using AI to achieve greener operations, proving its real-world potential.

Yet leadership commitment is essential. Executives must set measurable goals, model ethical behavior, and integrate sustainability into company culture. This ensures that sustainability is not a side project but a core business value.

The Shared Responsibility for a Sustainable AI Future

Creating a sustainable AI future requires collaboration between individuals, corporations, and governments. Citizens should stay informed and question how AI affects them. Companies must embed sustainability into their AI strategies, while governments need to establish policies that encourage responsible innovation.

By acting now, we can ensure AI evolves as a force for good—advancing technology without sacrificing ethics, equity, or environmental stewardship.

Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation

Tech Features

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan to Drive Global Marketing Growth

Published

1 month ago

August 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

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Kerrie Jordan - Epicor — Kerrie Jordan – Epicor

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan has been appointed to lead the company’s global marketing strategy. This move marks a pivotal moment in the enterprise software leader’s expansion. Epicor, known for its industry-specific solutions for the make, move, and sell economy, announced the news on August 12, 2025, in Dubai.

Jordan brings a rare combination of senior product innovation and strategic marketing expertise. She will strengthen the Epicor brand, expand market reach, and deepen customer engagement worldwide.

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan Brings Product and Market Expertise Together

Vaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, eVaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, emphasized the importance of the appointment.

“Kerrie’s ability to connect product strategy with market execution makes her an ideal fit. Her leadership has already shaped our Cognitive ERP vision, and we’re excited to see her bring that same energy and insight to our marketing efforts.”

Since joining Epicor in 2023 as Group Vice President of Product Management and ISV Partner Programs, Jordan has advanced the company’s Cognitive ERP roadmap. This AI-driven approach turns ERP from a system of record into a system of action and insight, empowering supply chain businesses to operate smarter and faster.

A Vision for Accelerated Innovation and Growth

In her new role, Jordan will unite product innovation, analytics, and go-to-market strategies to accelerate customer time-to-value. She will also foster innovation and support Epicor’s global expansion.

“I’m honored to expand my role at Epicor,” Jordan said. “Epicor is at the forefront of enabling essential businesses to thrive through AI-driven, connected technologies. I look forward to amplifying our impact, building stronger relationships with customers and partners, and driving growth across global markets.”

A Career Built on Technology Leadership

Before joining Epicor, Jordan served in senior product marketing positions at Oracle. She developed strategies for enterprise software solutions and helped drive adoption. Earlier in her career, she led strategic marketing programs for technology clients during her consulting roles at global marketing firms.

Jordan is a recognized voice in cloud ERP, digital transformation, and supply chain innovation. She hosts Epicor’s “Manufacturing the Future” podcast, which features industry leaders discussing trends shaping manufacturing and supply chain sectors. She is also a Forbes Tech Council contributor. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Santa Clara University in California.

Epicor’s Commitment to Industry-Focused Growth

Epicor has served customers across automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail for more than 50 years. The company’s solutions are tailored to industry needs and adaptable to fast-changing market conditions.

Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation

Tech Features

In-Hand Comfort Meets Elegant Design – A UI You’ll Love and Performance You Can Count On– Meet Oppo’s Reno 14 Series!

Published

1 month ago

August 11, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Oppo Reno 14 Series promotional collage highlighting design and performance

Reviewed By Srijith KN
Device Reno 14F 5G

In today’s crowded smartphone market, very few devices make a lasting impression from the first hold. The Oppo Reno 14 Series does exactly that. Its rounded front design, sharp edges, and striking Iridescent Mermaid finish give it a premium look that stands out. At just 7.42 mm thick and 187 g, with aluminium-framed edges, it feels light yet sturdy in the hand.

The 6.57-inch LTPS OLED display offers a 120 Hz Full HD+ experience with HDR10+ support and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. While the brightness could be slightly higher, the rich colour tones make it ideal for streaming and gaming. The high refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive visuals.

Display & Performance in the Oppo Reno 14

Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 mobile platform, paired with 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, the Oppo Reno 14 Series delivers fluid performance. Everyday tasks, multitasking, and gaming feel effortless. Even after a month of use, there’s no lag, and the phone remains cool under pressure.

The signal reception is equally reliable, performing well even in remote mountain regions. For gamers, the combination of smooth frame rates and strong connectivity makes it a dependable choice.

Camera Setup Built for Creativity

The Oppo Reno 14 Series brings a 32 MP front camera and a triple rear camera system (50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP). It supports 4K 60 fps HDR video recording, delivering sharp and vibrant footage. Oppo’s image processing handles lighting well, although the AI can occasionally produce slightly artificial tones. When it dials back the processing, the results are impressively natural.

Selfies from the front camera are detailed, making it a strong option for content creators. AI-powered tools such as AI Eraser, AI Reflection Remover, AI Unblur, AI Recompose, and AI Perfect Shot add versatility. Beyond photography, features like real-time translation and cloud-based voice transcription offer extra value.

Battery Life & Charging Speed on the Oppo Reno 14

Battery performance is one of the standout features. The massive 6,000 mAh battery easily lasts over a day of heavy use. Paired with 80 W fast charging, it goes from 0% to 100% in just 40–50 minutes, reducing downtime significantly.

Software and User Experience

Running on ColorOS 15, the interface is polished and responsive. The design is intuitive, though it comes with pre-installed apps that many users may want to remove for a cleaner setup. The combination of IP69 water and dust resistance, strong haptics, and a promised five years of major updates enhances its long-term value.

Verdict: A Strong Contender in Its Price Range

The Oppo Reno 14 Series blends premium design, solid performance, long battery life, and camera versatility into a package that offers excellent value. Whether for everyday use, creative projects, or gaming, it meets a wide range of needs without compromise.

For readers who enjoyed this review, check out our previous feature on Sustainable Tech: How Globant Shapes a Greener Tomorrow to see how innovation is shaping the tech industry.