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The United Arab Emirates has introduced the Jaywan co-badge card, a significant advancement in the nation’s payment infrastructure, enabling residents to conduct transactions seamlessly both domestically and in over 180 countries worldwide.

Al Etihad Payments , a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE , in collaboration with UnionPay International , has launched the “UnionPay – Jaywan” co-badge card. This initiative integrates the Jaywan domestic payment network with UnionPay’s extensive global reach, offering cardholders a unified payment solution.

Domestically, transactions made with the co-badge card are processed through the Jaywan network, ensuring efficient and secure payments within the UAE. For international transactions, the card leverages UnionPay’s global network, facilitating payments in over 180 countries and regions. This dual functionality provides UAE residents with a versatile payment method, catering to both local and international needs.

H.E. Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri, Assistant Governor for Banking Operations and Support Services at the CBUAE and Chairman of AEP, emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration. He noted that integrating the Jaywan and UnionPay networks aligns with the UAE’s commitment to innovative and efficient payment solutions, offering consumers a premium card that facilitates seamless transactions both within and beyond the UAE.

Larry Wang, CEO of UnionPay International, highlighted the mutual benefits of the partnership, underscoring its role in enhancing payment convenience and security for UAE residents. He also pointed out that this collaboration strengthens the economic and financial ties between China and the UAE, fostering greater cooperation between the two nations.

The Jaywan co-badge card is part of a broader initiative to modernize the UAE’s payment infrastructure. AEP has established partnerships with other international payment networks, including Discover, Mastercard, and Visa, to expand the global usability of Jaywan cards. These collaborations aim to provide consumers and businesses with secure, efficient, and innovative payment solutions, reduce transaction costs by offering effective local alternatives, and support economic growth by stimulating innovation in the payments sector.

In addition to enhancing payment accessibility, the co-badge card initiative supports the UAE’s goal of increasing financial inclusion. By offering a secure and efficient payment alternative, the Jaywan card caters to diverse consumer needs, promoting e-commerce and providing financial services that meet the requirements of various segments of society.

The infrastructure for the Jaywan card has been prepared to operate both locally and globally. This readiness aligns with the UAE’s digital transformation strategy, aiming to strengthen the country’s position as a leading global hub for digital payments. The Jaywan scheme offers consumers and businesses a secure, efficient, and innovative payment solution, supporting economic growth and financial inclusion.

The Jaywan cards will be available in debit, prepaid, and credit variants and can be used across ATMs, point-of-sale terminals, and e-commerce platforms. This versatility ensures that cardholders have multiple options for managing their finances, whether they are conducting everyday transactions or making larger purchases.

To further enhance the user experience, AEP has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Samsung Gulf Electronics to enable Jaywan cards to be integrated into the Samsung Wallet. This integration allows users to make payments seamlessly via their smartphones, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies in the financial sector.

The rollout of the Jaywan co-badge card is expected to commence in the near future, with widespread availability across the UAE’s financial institutions. This development signifies a transformative milestone in the UAE’s evolving payments landscape, providing residents with a payment solution that is both locally rooted and globally connected.

The introduction of the Jaywan co-badge card underscores the UAE’s dedication to fostering a robust and inclusive payment ecosystem. By integrating domestic and international payment networks, the UAE is enhancing the convenience and security of payments for its residents, ensuring a seamless payment experience regardless of location.

DP World and the Saudi Ports Authority have inaugurated the advanced South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port, marking a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global trade hub. The SAR 3 billion project has more than doubled the terminal’s capacity from 1.8 million to 4 million twenty-foot equivalent units , with plans to further expand to 5 million TEUs.

The three-year development has transformed the South Container Terminal into one of the region’s most advanced and sustainable facilities. Enhancements include the introduction of automated and electrified yard cranes, and the number of quay cranes is set to increase from 14 to 17 by the end of 2025, eventually reaching 22 as capacity expands. These upgrades enable the terminal to accommodate ultra-large container vessels, significantly boosting its operational efficiency.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, and DP World Group Chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem. Their presence underscored the project’s importance to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to enhance trade connectivity and diversify the economy.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem remarked, “Today marks a significant milestone in our long-term strategic investment in Jeddah Islamic Port. This expansion builds on our 25-year legacy in Jeddah and reinforces our commitment to driving trade growth in the region. With this modernised terminal, we are enhancing efficiency, improving supply chain resilience, and creating new trade opportunities for the Kingdom and beyond for decades to come.”

Technological advancements have been a cornerstone of the terminal’s modernization. The implementation of smart systems has reduced gate transaction times from two minutes to just 10 seconds. Additionally, Internet of Things -enabled cargo tracking and artificial intelligence -powered cargo tallying systems have been introduced to enhance operational accuracy and efficiency.

In response to the growing demand for perishable goods, the terminal’s capacity for refrigerated containers has been expanded from 1,200 to 2,340 units. A state-of-the-art facility capable of inspecting up to 75 reefers simultaneously is also under development, positioning it as the largest port-centric facility of its kind in the Kingdom.

Environmental sustainability is a key focus of the terminal’s operations. DP World has committed to reducing CO₂ emissions at the South Container Terminal by 50% over the next five years. Initiatives to achieve this goal include the electrification of yard cranes and trucks, installation of solar panels, exploration of floating solar platforms, and the incorporation of green building designs alongside water recycling systems.

Adjacent to the terminal, DP World is investing in the 415,000 square metre Jeddah Logistics Park, the largest integrated facility of its kind in the Kingdom. Scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026, the park will offer state-of-the-art warehousing, distribution, and freight forwarding services. Its integration with the terminal is expected to streamline cargo transfers and enhance overall efficiency, further solidifying Jeddah’s position as a key hub connecting trade routes across Asia, Africa, and Europe.

The South Container Terminal’s strategic location on the Red Sea positions it as a pivotal point for international trade. It serves as a major hub for trade between East and West and is a crucial gateway for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. The terminal’s modernization aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives, aiming to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics center.

The terminal’s infrastructure now boasts a quay length of 2,150 meters, including a deep-water quay with an 18-meter depth, allowing it to accommodate ultra-large container vessels. The planned increase in the number of quay cranes to 17 by the end of 2025, and eventually to 22, will further enhance its capacity and operational capabilities.

Microsoft has entered into a strategic collaboration with the Government of Kuwait to establish an Azure cloud region within the country, aiming to accelerate Kuwait’s digital transformation and bolster its position as a regional technology hub. This initiative is set to provide advanced cloud services, enhance data residency, and stimulate the development of smart infrastructure across various sectors.

The partnership aligns with Kuwait’s Vision 2035, a national development plan that seeks to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues by fostering a knowledge-based economy. By integrating Microsoft’s AI capabilities into the Azure cloud platform, the collaboration aims to drive innovation in key industries, including finance, healthcare, and education.

Kuwait has been proactive in adopting cutting-edge technologies to modernize its infrastructure and services. Notably, the country was the first in the region to implement 5G technology and currently boasts one of the highest 5G penetration rates globally. This existing technological foundation positions Kuwait favorably for the integration of advanced cloud services and AI solutions.

The establishment of a local Azure cloud region is expected to address critical concerns regarding data residency and security. By ensuring that data remains within national borders, the initiative aims to comply with local regulatory requirements and build trust among businesses and consumers. This move is anticipated to encourage more organizations to migrate to cloud platforms, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and scalability.

In the financial sector, the collaboration is poised to introduce AI-driven analytics and automation, enabling institutions to offer personalized services and improve risk management. The healthcare industry stands to benefit from enhanced data management systems, telemedicine capabilities, and predictive analytics for patient care. Educational institutions are expected to leverage cloud-based tools to facilitate remote learning and collaboration, aligning with global trends in digital education.

Microsoft’s investment in Kuwait extends beyond infrastructure development; the company plans to launch initiatives aimed at enhancing digital literacy and skills among the Kuwaiti workforce. These programs are designed to equip professionals with the competencies required to thrive in an AI-driven economy, thereby supporting the nation’s broader employment and economic diversification goals.

The Kuwaiti government has demonstrated a commitment to fostering innovation through various initiatives. For instance, the Insurance Regulatory Unit established IruSoft, an insurance regulatory platform designed for licensing, supervision, and inspection of the insurance sector. This platform introduced unique supervision-technology , insurance-technology , and regulatory-technology automated modules, reducing the resources required to ensure fairness, transparency, and competition in the sector. The implementation of such platforms reflects Kuwait’s dedication to integrating technology into governance and regulatory frameworks.

The collaboration with Microsoft also underscores Kuwait’s active participation in international digital initiatives. As a member of the Digital Cooperation Organization , Kuwait engages with other nations to promote digital prosperity and inclusive growth of the digital economy. The DCO focuses on fostering cooperation in areas such as digital innovation and governance, aligning with Kuwait’s objectives of leveraging technology for sustainable development.

The anticipated launch of the Azure cloud region is expected to attract global technology companies and startups to Kuwait, creating a vibrant ecosystem for innovation. This influx of technology enterprises is likely to generate employment opportunities, stimulate local entrepreneurship, and position Kuwait as a competitive player in the global digital economy.

The collaboration is set to enhance public sector services by enabling the development of smart city initiatives, improving urban planning, and delivering citizen-centric services. The integration of AI and cloud technologies can lead to more efficient public transportation systems, energy management, and public safety measures, thereby improving the quality of life for residents.

The educational sector is poised to undergo significant transformation through this partnership. By integrating cloud services into curricula and administrative operations, educational institutions can offer personalized learning experiences, streamline management processes, and facilitate research collaborations. This technological integration is expected to produce a generation of digitally adept graduates, ready to contribute to various sectors of the economy.

In the realm of healthcare, the Azure cloud region is anticipated to support the development of telemedicine services, electronic health records, and AI-driven diagnostic tools. These advancements can lead to improved patient outcomes, increased access to healthcare services, and optimized operational efficiencies within medical institutions.

The financial industry is also set to benefit from enhanced security measures, compliance solutions, and data analytics capabilities provided by the Azure platform. Financial institutions can leverage these tools to detect and prevent fraud, assess credit risks more accurately, and offer tailored financial products to customers.

Microsoft’s collaboration with Kuwait signifies a pivotal step in the nation’s journey towards digital transformation. By harnessing the power of AI and cloud computing, Kuwait aims to diversify its economy, enhance public services, and improve the overall standard of living for its citizens. This initiative reflects a broader trend in the region, where countries are increasingly investing in technology to drive sustainable development and global competitiveness.

Startups in India’s deep-tech and semiconductor sectors are increasingly positioning themselves as key players in the global technological race. With innovations spanning automotive semiconductors, AI-driven edge computing, and secure connectivity solutions, these startups are poised to lead the next wave of technological advancement.

The role of India’s emerging deep-tech ecosystem is gaining global recognition, especially in fields where cutting-edge technology is required to meet the rapidly evolving demands of industries. Notably, companies in the semiconductor sector are contributing significantly to the development of next-generation automotive systems. These systems rely heavily on semiconductor components to enable functions like autonomous driving, safety features, and advanced in-car connectivity, all of which are in high demand globally.

NXP Semiconductors, a global leader in semiconductor solutions, has highlighted the critical role India’s deep-tech startups are playing in this technological transformation. According to NXP executives, Indian startups are at the forefront of developing innovative solutions that can cater to the evolving needs of the automotive industry. “India’s deep-tech ecosystem is thriving, particularly in the semiconductor space, which is foundational for automotive technologies,” stated an NXP spokesperson. These startups are not only serving the domestic market but are also well-positioned to tap into the vast global market for automotive semiconductors.

India’s progress in automotive technology is attributed to a blend of innovation, government support, and a rapidly growing pool of highly skilled engineers and entrepreneurs. The country’s focus on fostering startups through initiatives like the ‘Startup India’ programme has provided a conducive environment for these companies to flourish. Additionally, the Indian government’s emphasis on expanding its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities has laid the foundation for more home-grown innovations in this sector.

While the automotive sector is receiving significant attention, Indian startups are also making strides in other high-growth sectors like AI-driven edge computing. These technologies are revolutionizing industries by enabling faster data processing at the source of data generation, as opposed to relying solely on cloud infrastructure. The ability to process data at the edge, especially in real-time applications such as smart cities and industrial IoT , is proving to be a game-changer. Indian startups are developing solutions that make edge computing more scalable, efficient, and secure, which is crucial for industries that demand low-latency operations and enhanced security.

India’s deep-tech startups are playing a vital role in advancing secure connectivity solutions, an area that has seen increasing demand with the rise of the Internet of Things and the digitalisation of services. In an era where data security is paramount, these companies are creating cutting-edge technologies to secure communications and data transmissions across various platforms. The emphasis on cybersecurity and secure communication protocols is vital in safeguarding critical infrastructure, especially with industries such as healthcare, finance, and defence becoming more interconnected.

Industry leaders believe that the synergy between India’s deep-tech startups and the government’s efforts to boost innovation will create a strong foundation for India’s dominance in these high-tech sectors. A key component of this success lies in the startups’ ability to develop customised solutions for both domestic and international markets. This is where their deep understanding of local challenges combined with global aspirations gives them a competitive edge.

With significant investments flowing into the country’s startup ecosystem, especially in semiconductors, AI, and edge computing, the outlook for India’s deep-tech sector is promising. The advent of 5G technology, in particular, is expected to further accelerate demand for these innovative solutions, particularly in automotive, smart cities, and industrial sectors. The country’s deep-tech startups are expected to play an instrumental role in the development and deployment of 5G-enabled technologies, which will provide them with more opportunities to scale globally.

India’s push towards developing indigenous semiconductor manufacturing capabilities has also opened doors for local companies to cater to the international semiconductor market. The government has actively sought to reduce India’s reliance on imported semiconductors, which has led to a surge in the development of local semiconductor fabs and research and development facilities. With global supply chains under pressure due to geopolitical factors, the demand for domestic semiconductor solutions has risen sharply. Indian startups are emerging as key players in this sector, meeting both the needs of the domestic market and providing competitive alternatives to global suppliers.

Experts predict that Indian deep-tech startups are not only set to lead in traditional areas like automotive and semiconductor technologies but are also likely to make breakthroughs in emerging fields such as quantum computing, robotics, and biotechnology. With the convergence of AI, machine learning, and quantum technologies, Indian startups are uniquely positioned to innovate at the intersection of these fields, driving future technological revolutions.

One of the challenges Indian startups face, however, is the scaling-up process. While the innovation coming out of India is impressive, the ability to scale these technologies globally remains a complex task. To overcome these challenges, Indian startups are increasingly collaborating with global players and securing strategic partnerships that help them expand their reach and capabilities. These partnerships also provide them with access to crucial markets and resources, enabling them to scale their solutions faster and more efficiently.

Telecommunications provider du has launched a new Travel eSIM service aimed at enhancing connectivity for transit passengers passing through the United Arab Emirates . This initiative allows travellers to maintain seamless data connectivity across more than 190 countries without the need for physical SIM cards.

The Travel eSIM is designed to offer convenience and affordability to international travellers. By scanning a QR code, users can activate the eSIM on their compatible devices, enabling immediate access to data services without the hassle of purchasing local SIM cards or incurring roaming charges. This digital solution aligns with the global shift towards eSIM technology, which integrates SIM functions directly into devices, eliminating the need for physical cards.

Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du, highlighted the company’s commitment to enhancing customer experiences: “Our Travel eSIM is a testament to du’s dedication to innovation and customer-centric solutions. We understand the needs of modern travellers and aim to provide them with seamless connectivity, no matter where they are in the world.”

The eSIM offers a range of data bundles tailored to different durations and data requirements. For instance, users can select packages that provide unlimited data for specific periods, such as one day or seven days, depending on their travel needs. This flexibility ensures that both short-term visitors and long-term travellers can find a plan that suits their usage patterns.

To activate the eSIM, travellers can visit du’s official website or authorized retailers to purchase a data bundle. After completing the purchase, they receive a QR code, which, when scanned, installs the eSIM profile on their device. It’s recommended to activate the eSIM upon arrival at the destination to ensure the data bundle period aligns with the travel schedule. Devices must be eSIM compatible and network unlocked to utilize this service.

The introduction of the Travel eSIM addresses common challenges faced by international travellers, such as the inconvenience of swapping physical SIM cards and the unpredictability of roaming charges. By offering a digital solution, du aims to streamline the connectivity process, allowing users to stay connected with ease.

In addition to data services, the eSIM provides access to local networks, enhancing the quality and reliability of the connection. This feature is particularly beneficial for business travellers who require consistent and high-speed internet access for work-related tasks.

The global eSIM market has been experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing adoption of eSIM-compatible devices and the demand for flexible connectivity solutions. Analysts predict that the number of eSIM-enabled smartphones will continue to rise, further solidifying the importance of services like du’s Travel eSIM in the telecommunications industry.

Travellers have expressed positive feedback regarding the convenience of eSIMs. A user on a travel forum shared their experience: “I arrived in Dubai and was able to get a tourist eSIM from the Virgin mobile shop. It was a straightforward process and didn’t involve getting a normal SIM as a stepping stone.” Such testimonials underscore the practicality and user-friendliness of eSIM technology.

However, it’s essential for users to ensure their devices are compatible with eSIM technology. Most modern smartphones from leading manufacturers support eSIM functionality, but travellers are advised to verify compatibility before attempting to install the eSIM. Additionally, devices should be network unlocked to prevent any activation issues.