Tech News
Budget: Accelerating Development through Reform and Innovation
The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, unveiled today his 2025-26 Budget. He noted that while geopolitical situation might bring risks, technology reform and artificial intelligence (AI) development are remoulding the global landscape, leading to the emergence of new industries, new forms of business, new products and new services. He stressed that Hong Kong must seize the opportunity to make the most out of this critical window to speed up development, establishing the new before abolishing the old. He also emphasised that transformation and innovation will lead the way into the future, and the Government is poised to fast-track the high-quality development of Hong Kong’s economy.
The Budget presents a series of measures aimed at accelerating the cultivation of new quality productive forces. On innovation and technology (I&T), the Government will promote Hong Kong into an international exchange and co-operation hub for the AI industry. Through frontier research and real-world application, the Government will endeavour to develop AI as a core industry and empower traditional industries in their upgrading and transformation. To spearhead and support Hong Kong’s innovative research and development as well as industrial application of AI, the Government will establish the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute and launch the Pilot Manufacturing and Production Line Upgrade Support Scheme (Manufacturing+). On finance, the Government will continue to take forward reforms to the listing regime, host the Hong Kong Global Financial and Industry Summit, and formulate a plan this year on promoting gold market development.
To seize the opportunities brought about by the rapid advancement of innovation and technology, the Budget highlights the need to accelerate the development of the Northern Metropolis, which is an investment in Hong Kong’s future. The Government will continue to accord priority to providing resources for this initiative, which primarily includes providing large tracts of I&T land at the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, together with San Tin Technopole; adopting an innovative mindset in piloting “large-scale land disposal”; developing a data facility cluster at Sandy Ridge; as well as identifying suitable sites in the Northern Metropolis for the construction of conference and exhibition facilities.
On the promotion of tourism, funding will be allocated to pursue the concept of “tourism is everywhere” and implement the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0. A study will be conducted on the development of the waterfront and former sites to the south of the Hung Hom Station into a new harbourfront landmark, including a yacht club.
Regarding land supply, Mr Chan announced that the Government will not roll out any commercial site for sale in the coming year in view of the high vacancy rates of offices in recent years to allow the market to absorb the existing supply. The Government will also consider rezoning some of the commercial sites into residential use and allowing greater flexibility of land use. To tie in with the relevant work, the deadline for completing in-situ land exchange for commercial sites in the town centre of the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area will be extended.
Mr Chan proposed a reinforced version of the fiscal consolidation programme to focus on strictly controlling government expenditure, supplemented by increasing revenue, to restore fiscal balance in the Operating Account, in a planned and progressive manner, within the current term of the Government. For 2025-26, the executive authorities, the legislature, the judiciary and members of the District Councils, including members of the civil service, take a pay freeze. The Government will step up the Productivity Enhancement Programme; compared with 2023-24, the recurrent expenditure in 2027-28 will record a cumulative reduction by 7 per cent and deliver a saving of $27.3 billion. By April 2027, about 10 000 posts of the civil service establishment are expected to be deleted within this term of Government. The Government will also deliver more efficient public services to citizens through leveraging technology, streamlining processes and driving the digital transformation of public services. In the Budget, it is proposed to adjust two transport subsidy schemes, namely putting forward the “$2 flat rate cum 80 per cent discount” in the Government Public Transport Fare Concession Scheme for the Elderly and Eligible Persons with Disabilities ($2 Scheme), and raising the threshold for receiving the subsidy under the Public Transport Fare Subsidy Scheme from $400 to $500, with the prevailing subsidy cap at $400 per month remaining unchanged. He will uphold the “user pays” and the “affordable users pay” principles as far as practicable while increasing revenue, including increasing the air passenger departure tax, and reviewing the tolls of government tunnels and trunk roads. The Government will suitably expand the size of bond issuance on the premise of maintaining healthy public finances and use the funds raised on infrastructure works in a proper and flexible manner to invest in Hong Kong’s future and create value for society.
Mr Chan concluded that he has full confidence in and high expectations for the future of Hong Kong, because Hong Kong people are intelligent, creative and tireless in contributing to the economic development. More importantly, he is confident due to the staunch and unwavering support received from the country and Hong Kong people’s profound insight into the major development trends of the future, as well as the city’s enviable and advantageous position.
Tech News
NEMETSCHEK ARABIA HIGHLIGHTS THEIR VISION AT PROJECT QATAR 2026
Nemetschek Arabia, part of the Nemetschek Group, one of the world’s leading software providers for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AEC/O) industry, is participating in Project Qatar 2026 as the event’s AEC/O Technology Sponsor, reaffirming its commitment to driving digital transformation and sustainable development across Qatar’s rapidly evolving built environment sector.
Taking place from 9 to 11 June 2026 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), Project Qatar 2026 brings together global construction leaders, innovators, and policymakers under the theme “Innovation & Sustainability: Qatar’s Path to 2030”. As part of its participation, Nemetschek Arabia is showcasing its ‘Connected Construction’ vision at Booth B03 in Hall 3 alongside its partner Medialogic, demonstrating how integrated digital workflows, data-driven collaboration, and intelligent technologies are reshaping the future of the construction industry.
Through its portfolio of globally recognized brands and technologies, Nemetschek Arabia is highlighting how digital solutions across the entire building lifecycle can help organizations improve efficiency, collaboration, sustainability, and project delivery outcomes. From Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twins to AI-powered workflows and smart asset management, the company’s solutions are empowering developers, contractors, architects, engineers, and operators to build smarter and more sustainably.
Qatar’s construction sector continues to witness strong momentum as the country advances major infrastructure and development initiatives aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. According to Research And Markets, the country’s construction industry is expected to surpass $106.3 billion by 2030, supported by investments in renewable energy, hospitality, transportation, healthcare, and education projects. Meanwhile, Qatar’s 2026 national budget allocated approximately $17.3 billion towards major capital and infrastructure projects, reflecting the country’s continued focus on long-term economic diversification and sustainable urban development.
“As Qatar realizes the ambitious infrastructure goals set out in the National Vision 2030, the demand for seamless, data-driven collaboration has never been greater,” said Eng. Muayad Simbawa, Managing Director of Nemetschek Arabia. “At Project Qatar 2026, we are showcasing how connected digital ecosystems can help organizations break down silos, improve collaboration across stakeholders, and unlock greater efficiency throughout the entire building lifecycle. As a trusted technology partner to the AEC/O industry, our focus is on helping customers in Qatar accelerate their digital transformation journeys and deliver smarter, more sustainable, and future-ready projects aligned with the ambitions of Qatar National Vision 2030.”
As governments and developers across the GCC continue prioritizing smart cities, sustainability, and digitalization, Nemetschek Arabia remains focused on supporting the region’s transformation through open and connected technologies that enable more resilient and future-ready infrastructure ecosystems. Its participation at Project Qatar 2026 further reinforces the company’s position as a trusted technology partner for organizations seeking to accelerate innovation and unlock greater value across the design, construction, and operations lifecycle.
With a growing regional footprint and a commitment to advancing the future of the built environment, Nemetschek Arabia continues to collaborate with public and private sector stakeholders to drive meaningful progress through technology, sustainability, and innovation.
Tech News
TALLY SOLUTIONS OPENS NOMINATIONS FOR THE 6TH EDITION OF TALLY MSME HONOURS, CELEBRATING INSPIRING ENTREPRENEURS

Tally Solutions, a leading international technology provider of business management software, has announced the launch of the sixth edition of its flagship annual initiative, Tally MSME Honours. With an aim to recognize and celebrate emerging entrepreneurs, the initiative builds on the momentum of five successful years and continues to champion the future of the UAE’s MSME ecosystem by spotlighting innovation, resilience, and meaningful impact.
Over the last five editions, Tally MSME Honours has received more than 70,000 nominations globally, with over 20% of entries from women-led ventures, making it one of the biggest global platforms to celebrate MSMEs. This year, Tally expects 20,000 nominations across categories. The honours will also bring forth MSME success stories from across India, Africa, Bangladesh, and Nepal, in addition to the Middle East. The entries can be submitted by interested businesses or people who know such businesses via this link.
As part of this year’s edition, participants can submit video entries, ensuring representation from different emirates across the UAE. To further strengthen the evaluation process, Tally is also deploying an AI-led shortlisting framework that will help validate and assess entries more comprehensively by analyzing publicly available business information, ensuring deserving businesses receive due recognition for their impact and growth.
Speaking about the initiative, Vikas Panchal, General Manager – MENA, Tally Solutions, said, “MSME Honours is not just an award platform; it is a celebration of the resilience, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit that drives small businesses forward every day. Across the UAE and the wider MENA region, we continue to witness inspiring MSMEs building innovative businesses, creating employment, and contributing meaningfully to economic growth. This becomes even more relevant as the UAE continues to place strong focus on strengthening its SME ecosystem as a key pillar of the country’s long-term economic vision. Through MSME Honours, we aim to spotlight these stories of determination and impact, while encouraging more entrepreneurs to share and celebrate their journeys.”
With a strong focus on enabling long-term growth and visibility, Tally MSME Honours extends beyond recognition to create a platform that continuously supports entrepreneurial journeys. Over the years, past winners have become part of a growing network of business leaders and changemakers, gaining opportunities to participate in industry discussions, ecosystem forums, and business-led conversations. These engagements help entrepreneurs showcase their journeys, build meaningful collaborations, exchange insights, and further strengthen their impact within the broader MSME ecosystem.
Tally MSME Honours 2026 will feature the following award categories:
- Business Maestro: Established businesses that have mastered the art of thriving and sustaining success.
- Wonder Woman: Outstanding women-led businesses making a remarkable impact.
- NewGen Icon: A new generation of business owners innovating and paving the way for exponential growth.
- Tech Transformer: Businesses leveraging new technology to drive efficiency and scale.
- E-preneur Icon: Purpose-driven businesses contributing meaningfully to society and the environment
The entries will be judged by an esteemed panel comprising experts from the field of technology, the MSME domain, and the media.
Tech News
BELKIN’S LILYPAD IPAD CASE TURNS THE FAMILY IPAD INTO A FUN, FRIENDLY SIDEKICK INSPIRED BY DISNEY AND PIXAR’S “TOY STORY 5”

Belkin, a global leader in consumer electronics for over 40 years, today announced a real-world special edition iPad case inspired by Lilypad, the high-tech frog-shaped smart tablet character from Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5,” in theaters June 18.
Designed to transform an iPad into a fun character companion, the Lilypad iPad Case blends protection with subtle character-inspired features, turning tablet use into an imaginative, playful experience connected to the world of “Toy Story 5.”
“Lilypad represents a modern take on how kids interact with technology,” said Steve Malony, CEO of Belkin. “With this collaboration, we wanted to create an accessory that captures the character’s personality while still delivering the quality, durability, protection, and thoughtful design families expect from Belkin.”
Turning an iPad into Lilypad
Designed, for families and Disney collectors, the Lilypad iPad Case combines durable EVA foam construction with character-inspired details like a built-in carry handle and foldable kickstand, allowing users to comfortably hold, carry, and use their device for watching, drawing, or learning on the go.
Key features include:
- Official Lilypad Character Design – Inspired by Lilypad from Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5,” the case gives iPad (10th and 11th generation) expressive eye details and a character-inspired design.
- Kid-Proof Protection – Durable EVA foam construction helps absorb bumps and drops during everyday play.
- Soft, Grippy Edges – Easy for small hands to hold securely, helping reduce slips and accidental drops.
- Built-In Carry Handle – Integrated handle provides easy portability, designed to keep up with everyday use.
- Built-In Kickstand – Foldable kickstand supports hands-free viewing for drawing, watching, or playing.
- Exclusive Digital Wallpapers – Each case includes a QR code to download complimentary Lilypad-themed wallpapers for home and lock screens, making the iPad feel even more like the character.
- Safe & Parent-Approved Materials – Made with non-toxic materials and wipe-clean surfaces for easy maintenance.
-
News11 years ago
SENDQUICK (TALARIAX) INTRODUCES SQOOPE – THE BREAKTHROUGH IN MOBILE MESSAGING
-
Trending8 months agoOPPO A6 Pro 5G Review: Reliable Daily Driver
-
Tech News2 years agoDenodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
VAR1 year agoMicrosoft Launches New Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
-
Automotive2 years agoAGMC Launches the RIDDARA RD6 High Performance Fully Electric 4×4 Pickup
-
Tech Interviews2 years ago
Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News11 months agoNothing Launches flagship Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1) in theme with the Iconic Museum of the Future in Dubai
-
VAR2 years agoSamsung Galaxy Z Fold6 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Clash Of The Folding Phenoms


