The Technology Express Magazine | Edition: April 2025

GROW YOUR
BUSINESS
We make Short / Long Term
Investments in Growing Businesses
info@wasayainvestments.com
www.wasayainvestments.com

EDITORIAL
Tanishqa Kambli (Editorial Assistant)
tan@mcfillmedia.com
DESIGN
Hassan Khan, hassan@mcfillmedia.com
Nauman Khan, nauman@mcfillmedia.com
STUDIO AND PRODUCTION
Mommina Asif, mommina@mcfillmedia.com
COMMERCIAL (EVENTS & ADVERTISING)
Sakshi Lalwani
+971 58 596 6036, sakshi@mcfillmedia.com
Abhinay Bhartiya
+971 58 596 4066, abhinay@mcfillmedia.com
PARTNERSHIPS
Khwahish Waghnani, khwahish@mcfillmedia.com
DISTRIBUTION
Ashish Kumar, ashish@mcfillmedia.com
GENERAL
Advertisement, advertise@thetechnologyexpress.com
Press Release, feature@thetechnologyexpress.com
News, news@thetechnologyexpress.com
Partnerships, partnerships@thetechnologyexpress.com
Public Relations, pr@thetechnologyexpress.com
The Publisher has taken all reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of the
content at the time of publication. However, The Publisher accepts no
liability for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies within this publication.
The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of The
Publisher. Readers are encouraged to seek professional advice before acting
on any information provided, as the content is for general reference and may
not apply to individual circumstances. All trademarks, logos, and intellectual
property rights featured in this publication are acknowledged and remain the
property of their respective owners. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form without the prior written
consent of The Publisher. All rights reserved.
EDITOR’S
NOTE
“Web3 is not just about decentralization; it’s about freedom. It’s
about creating systems where trust is built into the code, not
reliant on intermediaries.”
–-- Naval Ravikant, Entrepreneur and Investor
In a world fueled by both sustainability and decentralization,
this month’s issue bridges energy innovation and Web3
excellence, offering a broad look at where technology
is headed. From AI-driven smart grids to innovations in
hydrogen storage and carbon capture, the energy sector is
undergoing a powerful shift. We take a closer look at how
cutting-edge technology is not only optimizing systems
but also building a more resilient and efficient future. As
the global focus sharpens on cleaner solutions, this issue
highlights the role of tech in driving long-term impact.
Our cover story celebrates the Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers
in the UAE, visionaries who are building decentralized
ecosystems across industries. While their work spans
multiple sectors, including finance, supply chain, and digital
infrastructure, their collective influence is pushing the
boundaries of what’s possible in the Web3 space. These
visionaries are setting new standards for innovation and
collaboration in the region.
Inside, you’ll find a wide range of stories that bring
technology into everyday context. We explore emerging
startups like Verbatica, review the Asus Vivobook 18, and
take a first look at the 2025 Kia Tasman. From digital twins
to alternative energy storage, each feature adds a fresh
perspective on our tech-driven world. Whether you’re exploring
the rise of alternative storage systems like gravity-based
energy or the role of AI in optimizing battery performance,
every page in this issue reflects how technology continues
to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Thank you for reading, and as always, we hope to inform,
inspire, and ignite new ideas.
MCFILL MEDIA &
PUBLISHING GROUP

TECH
12
The Energy-Water Nexus:
Tech Solutions for Resource
Optimization
08
26
Startup Spotlight
Verbatica
AI’s Energy Appetite:
Balancing Innovation and Sustainability
20
Nuclear Renaissance:
SMRs and Data Centers

60
Drive to the Future
2025 Kia Tasman
72
28
Tech Unwind
Asus Vivobook 18
Cover Story
Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the
UAE 2025
58
Electric Vehicles
Powering the Future: EV Integration
and the Rise of Vehicle-to-Grid
Technology
INSIDE

Artificial Intelligence
AI-POWERED SMART
GRIDS:
THE BACKBONE OF ENERGY 4.0
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming energy management
through smart grids, enhancing efficiency, reliability,
and sustainability. In the UAE and GCC region, AI-driven
systems enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance,
and demand response, effectively supporting
economic diversification and energy security while aligning
with ambitious regional goals for technological innovation
and environmental sustainability.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising
the energy sector through
the evolution of smart grids, enhancing
electricity management, distribution,
and consumption under Energy
4.0. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
region, AI-powered smart grids represent
a strategic push toward sustainability and
economic diversification. These systems
offer improved efficiency, reliability, and
resilience by enabling real-time monitoring,
predictive maintenance, and demand
forecasting. With initiatives like the UAE
Energy Strategy 2050, AI-driven smart
grids are aligning with national goals of
clean energy adoption and carbon footprint
reduction, paving the way for a
8 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
greener, more resilient energy landscape
in the region.
The Current Landscape of AI Integration
in GCC Smart Grids
Grid Management: AI facilitates real-time
monitoring and control of energy distribution
networks. By analyzing extensive
data from sensors and smart meters,
AI systems optimize power flows, reduce
transmission losses, and promptly
address issues like outages or equipment
failures. For instance, in the United
States, companies such as Gridraven
are implementing Dynamic Line Ratings
(DLR) to enhance transmission capacity
by 30%, effectively managing increased
power demands without extensive infrastructure
upgrades.
Demand Response: Artificial intelligence
(AI) is transforming demand response
strategies by accurately predicting
consumption patterns and automating
energy usage adjustments. This optimisation
ensures a balanced supply-demand
equation, enhancing grid stability
while lowering operational costs. Studies
reveal that AI-driven systems can
improve prediction accuracy, enabling
more efficient energy distribution and
reducing strain on power networks. By
facilitating real-time adjustments based
on demand forecasts, AI minimises energy
wastage and supports a more resilient
energy infrastructure. As the adoption
of AI-powered demand response solutions
grows, the energy sector moves
closer to achieving greater efficiency,
sustainability, and cost-effectiveness,
particularly in regions like the UAE focusing
on smart grid advancements.
Predictive Maintenance: Artificial intelligence
(AI) enables predictive maintenance
by continuously analysing equipment
data to forecast potential failures
before they occur. This proactive approach
minimises downtime, enhances
reliability, and extends the lifespan of
critical infrastructure. Companies like VIE
Technologies utilise sensors and AI models
to detect anomalies in transformers,
predicting issues well in advance and
preventing costly outages.
Advantages of AI-Powered Smart Grids
in the UAE and GCC Region
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:
AI facilitates the seamless integration
of renewable energy sources, such as
The UAE continues to
invest in innovative
technologies such as
artificial intelligence
to enhance energy efficiency,
reliability, and
sustainability, ensuring
a secure and prosperous
future for our nation.”
H.E. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer,
Managing Director and CEO of Dubai
Electricity and Water Authority
solar and wind, into the grid. By accurately
forecasting energy production
and consumption, AI ensures optimal
utilization of these resources, aligning
with the UAE’s sustainability goals.
Economic Diversification: Investments in
AI and smart grid technologies contribute
to economic diversification by reducing
reliance on oil and gas revenues. The
UAE’s National AI Strategy 2031 exemplifies
the nation’s commitment to becoming
a leader in AI adoption across
various sectors, including energy.
Enhanced Energy Security: AI-driven
predictive maintenance and demand
response mechanisms bolster energy
security by preventing outages and
ensuring a stable power supply. This
reliability is crucial for attracting foreign
investments and supporting the growth of
energy-intensive industries in the region.
Strategies for Maximizing AI Integration
in GCC Smart Grids
To fully harness the potential of AI in
smart grids, the UAE and GCC countries
should consider the following actionable
insights:
Invest in Infrastructure: Develop robust
digital infrastructures that support
AI applications in the energy sector. This
includes deploying advanced sensors,
communication networks, and data analytics
platforms. The Dubai Electricity
and Water Authority (DEWA) is leading
by example with its $1.9 billion investment
in a smart grid project aimed at
enhancing efficiency and reliability over
the next decade.
Foster Public-Private Partnerships:
Encourage collaborations between
government entities, private companies,
and research institutions to drive
innovation in AI applications for energy.
Such partnerships can accelerate the
development and deployment of smart
grid solutions tailored to regional needs.
Develop Regulatory Frameworks: Establish
clear policies and standards that
govern the use of AI in the energy sector.
This includes addressing data privacy
concerns, ensuring cybersecurity, and
promoting interoperability among different
systems.
Pilot Innovative Projects: Implement pilot
projects that demonstrate the benefits
of AI in smart grids. These projects can
serve as testbeds for new technologies
and provide valuable insights for
large-scale deployments. For example,
ADNOC’s collaboration with AIQ and G42
to deploy autonomous AI in the energy
sector marks a significant step towards
integrating advanced technologies in
operations.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing
energy management in the UAE
and GCC through the development of
smart grids. These AI-powered systems
enhance energy efficiency, support economic
diversification, and strengthen
energy security. For instance, the Dubai
Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
has committed $1.9 billion to a smart grid
project incorporating AI and IoT technologies,
aiming to improve operational
efficiency and sustainability over the next
decade. By adopting such technologies,
the region positions itself as a leader in
the global energy transition.
Apr 2025 / 9

AI NEWS
Google Unveils Gemma 3: AI Model Optimized
for Single GPUs
Google has unveiled Gemma 3, an
advanced AI model optimized
for single GPU or TPU deployment.
Available in 1B, 4B, 12B, and 27B
parameter sizes, it supports over 35
languages and can process text, im-
ages, and short videos. Gemma 3 features
a 128K-token context window,
enabling analysis of extensive documents
and datasets. Preliminary evaluations
indicate it outperforms models
like Llama3-405B and DeepSeek-V3.
Dubai AI Festival
2025: Artificial Intelligence
Event Returns
as UAE Targets $46B
Sector
The Dubai AI Festival returns for
its second edition on April 23-24,
2025, at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai,
as part of the inaugural Dubai AI Week.
The event underscores the UAE’s commitment
to AI-driven innovation, with the
nation’s AI market projected to grow
from $3.47 billion in 2022 to $46.33
billion by 2030, potentially contributing
$100 billion to the GDP.
Microsoft’s Next-Gen
Xbox Set Handheld
Launch in 2025
Microsoft is set to launch its
next-generation handheld
Xbox in 2025, aiming to rival
portable gaming devices. With advanced
hardware, seamless cloud
integration, and access to the Xbox
Game Pass library, the handheld promises
an immersive gaming experience.
This move reflects Microsoft’s commitment
to expanding its presence in
the mobile gaming market.
Race to Launch Most
Powerful AI PC Intensifies:
Ryzen AI Max
Launches
AMD has launched the Ryzen AI
Max, intensifying the competition
to build the most powerful AI
PC. Featuring advanced AI processing
capabilities and enhanced efficiency, it
aims to accelerate AI workloads for developers
and consumers. With rivals like
Intel and NVIDIA in the race, the launch
marks a significant leap in AI-powered
computing.
M4 MacBook Air
Review: Faster, Smarter,
and Affordable
Apple’s M4 MacBook Air, released
on March 12, 2025, features the
powerful M4 chip, enhancing
performance and efficiency. Available in
13-inch and 15-inch models, it introduces
a new Sky Blue color option. Starting
at $999 for the 13-inch and $1,199 for
the 15-inch, the M4 MacBook Air offers
improved battery life and support for two
external displays. Reviewers praise its
performance, design, and value.
10 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
OpenAI Launches New
Developer Tools as
Chinese AI Startups
Gain Ground
OpenAI has introduced the Responses
API and Agents SDK,
empowering developers to
build sophisticated AI agents capable
of tasks like web searches and file
analysis. This launch comes as Chinese
AI startups, such as Manus, gain
traction with advanced AI agents like
Monica, developed in collaboration
with Alibaba’s Qwen AI models. The
intensified competition underscores
rapid advancements in AI technology,
with Chinese firms offering high-performing,
cost-effective solutions.
Abu Dhabi’s $25 Billion
Bet on Powering
America’s AI Boom
Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth
fund, ADQ, has partnered with
U.S.-based Energy Capital Partners
to invest over $25 billion in energy
infrastructure projects aimed at
powering data centers and supporting
the burgeoning AI industry. This
50-50 joint venture plans to develop
25 gigawatts of new power generation
capacity, primarily in the United
States, addressing the escalating
energy demands driven by advancements
in artificial intelligence.
Amazon Unveils Premium
AI-Powered
Alexa Devices
Amazon has unveiled Alexa+, an
AI-powered upgrade to its voice
assistant, offering enhanced
conversational abilities and personalized
interactions. This generative AI
integration allows Alexa+ to understand
context, manage smart home devices,
and perform complex tasks like ordering
groceries or booking reservations.
Available at no extra cost for Amazon
Prime members, Alexa+ will roll out in
the coming weeks on select Echo Show
devices, including Echo Show 8, 10,
15, and 21.
iOS 19: Biggest Design
Changes in iPhone
History Revealed
Apple is set to unveil iOS 19, marking
the most significant design
overhaul since iOS 7. Drawing
inspiration from visionOS, the update
introduces transparent interfaces,
rounded corners, and redesigned
icons. The Camera app receives a
major revamp, offering more screen
space for previews and translucent
pop-up menus for mode selection.
These changes aim to create a more
consistent cross-platform experience
across Apple’s devices.
AIQ Secures $340M Contract to Deploy Agentic
AI across ADNOC Operations
AIQ, a subsidiary of Presight, has
secured a $340 million contract
with the Abu Dhabi National
Oil Company (ADNOC) to deploy its
agentic AI platform, ENERGYai, across
ADNOC’s upstream operations over
three years. ENERGYai combines large
language models with advanced AI,
aiming to enhance efficiency in tasks
like seismic analysis and geological
modeling, reducing process times
from months to days. Developed in
collaboration with G42 and Microsoft,
the platform integrates technologies
such as the Azure cloud stack and
OpenAI models. This initiative aligns
with ADNOC’s goal to become the
world’s most AI-enabled energy
company.
Apr 2025 / 11

Energy-Water Nexus
THE ENERGY-WATER
NEXUS:
TECH SOLUTIONS FOR
RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION
The energy-water nexus highlights the interdependence
between energy production and water usage, posing challenges
and opportunities amid climate change. Technological
innovations are essential for enhancing resource
efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. As the UAE and
GCC face water scarcity, innovative solutions are crucial
for future resilience and sustainable development.
The intricate relationship between
energy production and water usage,
known as the energy-water
nexus, presents significant challenges
and opportunities in the face of climate
change. Since energy generation often
requires substantial water resources,
while water supply systems demand
energy, their interdependence is evident.
Technological innovations are essential
for optimising this nexus, promoting
sustainability, and enhancing resilience.
Renewable energy solutions, efficient
desalination technologies, and smart water
management systems offer promising
ways to reduce resource strain. Addition-
12 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
ally, integrated policies and collaborative
frameworks are necessary to address
the growing demand for energy and water.
Leveraging advanced technologies
and adopting strategic approaches can
enhance resource efficiency and ensure
long-term environmental sustainability.
Understanding the Energy-Water Nexus
Energy generation processes often require
significant water inputs, while water
treatment and distribution rely heavily on
energy. This interdependence means
inefficiencies or shortages in one sector
can directly affect the other, highlighting
the need for integrated management
strategies. Effective coordination between
energy and water systems is essential
to enhance resource efficiency,
reduce environmental impact, and ensure
sustainability. Innovative technologies
and collaborative policies can help
address these challenges, promoting
resilience and sustainable resource
management.
Technological Innovations Addressing
the Nexus
Traditional desalination methods have
been notably energy-intensive. However,
advancements in reverse osmosis technologies
have led to significant improvements
in energy efficiency. For instance,
the implementation of advanced reverse
osmosis technologies combined with
expertise in critical pretreatment and
post-treatment stages has reduced the
energy used to desalinate seawater by
35% over the past decade.
Integrating renewable energy sources
into water treatment processes is another
significant development. Solar-powered
water purification systems utilize solar
energy to treat and purify water from
various sources. The basic principles
involve harnessing the power of the sun
to generate heat and electricity, which
is then used to remove contaminants
and pathogens from water.
The integration of digital technologies
into water distribution networks allows for
real-time monitoring and management,
reducing water loss and optimizing energy
use. Smart sensors and data analytics
enable proactive maintenance and
efficient resource allocation, enhancing
the overall efficiency of water systems.
Innovations in capturing energy from
wastewater treatment processes, such
as anaerobic digestion, allow for the
generation of biogas, which can be used
to produce electricity or heat, thereby
creating a circular energy system. This
approach not only reduces waste but
also contributes to energy production,
exemplifying the principles of a circular
economy.
Implications for the UAE and GCC
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
countries, including the United Arab
Emirates (UAE), face unique challenges
due to their arid climates and limited
freshwater resources. Water scarcity in
the region has driven significant advancements
in desalination technologies and
the combined co-production of electricity
and water.
Desalination has become a critical solution
for ensuring a reliable water supply,
particularly in the GCC countries. Integrated
energy-water systems, including
co-generation plants, are increasingly
being adopted to enhance efficiency and
sustainability. As water demand continues
to rise due to population growth and
industrialisation, innovative approaches
to optimise energy and water use are
essential to secure the region’s future
water and energy needs.
Government Initiatives and Policies
National Water Security Strategy 2036:
This strategy aims to ensure sustainable
water access during both normal and
emergency conditions by prioritising
efficiency and resilience. It focuses
on reducing overall water demand, enhancing
the water productivity index,
and improving water scarcity rates. By
promoting efficient water use, adopting
advanced technologies, and encouraging
conservation practices, the strategy
seeks to optimise resource management.
Such efforts are essential to address the
growing challenges of water scarcity
and ensure long-term water security.
Energy Strategy 2050: The UAE’s
long-term energy plan aims to boost
the share of clean energy in its overall
energy mix, thereby reducing water consumption
linked to conventional energy
production methods. By investing in renewable
sources such as solar, wind,
and nuclear energy, the UAE seeks to
minimise its reliance on water-intensive
power generation. This strategic shift not
only supports environmental sustainability
but also strengthens the country’s
resilience against water scarcity and
enhances energy security.
Leveraging AI and Digital Twin Technologies
for Enhanced Resource Management
The integration of Artificial Intelligence
(AI) and Digital Twin technologies is revolutionizing
the management of the energy-water
nexus, particularly in regions
like the UAE where resource optimization
is critical. Digital Twins are virtual replicas
of physical systems that utilize real-time
data to simulate, predict, and optimize
performance. In the UAE, the Ministry
of Energy and Infrastructure introduced
a Big Data Ecosystem and Digital Twin
Platform in early 2024. This platform
provides real-time data on energy and
water consumption through 3D models,
offering insights that support efficient
resource usage and sustainability initiatives.
Future Outlook
The continued development and implementation
of technological innovations
are vital for optimizing the energy-water
nexus. Embracing integrated approaches
that consider the interdependencies of
water and energy systems will enhance
resource efficiency, support sustainable
development, and improve resilience
against climate change impacts.
By investing in and adopting advanced
technologies, the UAE and GCC countries
can set a global example in sustainable
resource management. This approach
ensures long-term water and energy security,
enhancing economic resilience
and environmental sustainability. Prioritising
innovation and efficient practices will
help mitigate environmental impacts while
supporting growth and development.
As regional leaders in sustainability, the
UAE and GCC countries can safeguard
resources for future generations and
promote a more sustainable and resilient
future.
Technological innovations are key to
solving the energy-water nexus challenges.
By adopting energy-efficient
desalination, renewable-powered water
treatment, smart water grids, and
wastewater energy recovery, countries
can use resources more efficiently and
sustainably. For places like the UAE and
GCC, where water scarcity is a real concern,
these advancements are essential
for building resilience and securing
future growth.
Apr 2025 / 13

APP EXPRESS
SAHLPAY:
PAYMENTS MADE EASY
SahlPay is a user-friendly mobile application transforming
the way individuals manage payments in the UAE.
Designed for convenience, it allows users to instantly
recharge Du and Etisalat prepaid mobiles, eliminating the
need for physical vouchers or long queues. Additionally,
SahlPay supports international mobile recharges, enabling
users to top up numbers in countries like India, catering to
a diverse demographic.
Beyond mobile top-ups, SahlPay offers a range of services,
including bill payments for electricity, landline, gas, DTH, and
data cards within India. This versatility positions the app as a
comprehensive payment solution for users with cross-border
financial commitments.
A standout feature of SahlPay is its rewarding system.
With each successful transaction, users receive vouchers
equivalent to the recharge amount, redeemable across various
categories such as shopping, food, travel, and beauty.
This initiative not only provides value but also enhances
user engagement.
Security is paramount with SahlPay. The app employs robust
encryption protocols to ensure all transactions are secure,
giving users peace of mind. Its intuitive interface further
ensures a seamless experience, making digital payments
straightforward for everyone.
In essence, SahlPay is more than just a payment app; it’s
a holistic platform addressing the diverse needs of users in
the UAE. By combining convenience, a broad range of services,
and rewarding experiences, SahlPay has solidified its
position as a leading choice for digital payments in the region.
DAMDOUM:
ENGAGE IN FUN GAMES
AND EARN REWARDS
Damdoum is an innovative mobile application that combines
entertainment with rewards, offering users in
the UAE a unique way to enjoy games while earning
incentives. Available on both Android and iOS platforms, the
app provides a diverse selection of engaging and educational
games suitable for all age groups.
Users can participate in various quizzes and surveys to
accumulate points, which can be redeemed for exclusive
rewards such as discount vouchers and recharge cards. This
feature not only enhances the gaming experience but also
offers tangible benefits, making leisure time more rewarding.
The app’s user-friendly interface ensures seamless navigation,
allowing players to easily explore and select games
of their interest. Regular updates introduce new games and
features, keeping the content fresh and engaging.
Security and privacy are prioritized in Damdoum. The developers
adhere to stringent data protection regulations,
ensuring that personal information is handled responsibly.
Users can review the comprehensive privacy policy within
the app for detailed information on data usage.
Damdoum offers a compelling blend of entertainment and
rewards, making it a standout choice for users seeking both
fun and value from their mobile gaming experiences.
14 \ Apr 2025

BOOKLY:
ELEVATE YOUR
READING EXPERIENCE
thetechnologyexpress.com
Bookly is a comprehensive reading companion app
designed to help users track, manage, and enhance
their reading habits. Available on both Android and iOS
platforms, Bookly allows users to monitor their reading sessions
in real-time, set personalised goals, and gain insightful
statistics about their reading progress.
With Bookly, adding books to your digital library is effortless.
Users can scan ISBN barcodes or search online to input
book details, accommodating physical books, e-books,
and audiobooks. The app supports the creation of custom
collections such as “To Be Read” or “Favourites,” enabling
organised and accessible book management.
A standout feature of Bookly is its real-time reading tracker.
By activating the timer during reading sessions, the app
records the duration and current page number, providing
estimates on time remaining to complete the book based on
reading speed. Users can also add personal ratings, thoughts,
and memorable quotes for each book, enriching the reading
experience.
Bookly offers detailed statistics, including total reading time,
pages read, and reading speed, allowing users to monitor
their habits and set achievable goals. The app also features
ambient sounds to create a conducive reading environment
and supports generating infographics-style reports for a visual
representation of progress.
Bookly serves as an invaluable tool for readers aiming
to cultivate a consistent reading habit, providing a suite of
features that make tracking and managing reading activities
both engaging and insightful.
SUBSTACK:
A PREMIER PLATFORM FOR
INDEPENDENT PUBLISHING
Substack has emerged as a leading platform for writers
and readers seeking quality content and meaningful
engagement. Available on both Android and iOS devices,
Substack offers a seamless experience for accessing a
diverse range of newsletters, articles, podcasts, and videos
from independent creators worldwide.
Users can explore and subscribe to a wide array of publications,
ensuring all their favourite content is consolidated in
one convenient location. The app’s intuitive interface allows
for easy navigation through various categories, making content
discovery both straightforward and enjoyable. Additionally,
Substack facilitates direct interaction between readers and
writers through features like subscriber chats and discussion
threads, fostering a vibrant community.
For writers, Substack provides a robust platform to publish
and monetise their work through subscription-based models.
The app supports multimedia content, including written
articles, podcasts, and videos, enabling creators to diversify
their offerings.
Security and privacy are prioritised within the Substack
ecosystem. The platform employs stringent measures to
protect user data and ensure a safe environment for both
readers and creators. Regular updates enhance app performance
and introduce new features, reflecting Substack’s
commitment to continuous improvement.
Substack stands out as a premier destination for independent
publishing, offering quality content, community engagement,
and monetisation opportunities for creators.
Apr 2025 / 15

Blockchain
BLOCKCHAIN AND IOT:
DEMOCRATIZING ENERGY
MARKETS
Integrating blockchain and IoT in energy systems offers
new opportunities for efficiency and sustainability. The
UAE and GCC are actively adopting these technologies
to enhance decentralisation and transparency in energy
trading. This innovative approach supports renewable
energy integration, promoting economic diversification
and sustainable growth in the region.
Imagine a world where energy flows as
freely and directly as information on
the internet. This vision is becoming
reality through the fusion of blockchain
technology and the Internet of Things
(IoT). Individuals can now produce,
consume, and trade energy seamlessly
among themselves. This powerful
synergy is reshaping the global energy
sector, enhancing efficiency, transparency,
and sustainability. Notably, the
United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Gulf
Cooperation Council (GCC) region are
at the forefront of this transformation,
pioneering innovative solutions to integrate
blockchain and IoT technologies
into energy management systems.
The future of energy is decentralised,
digitalised, and democratised, driving
unprecedented opportunities for all.
16 \ Apr 2025

The Integration of Blockchain and IoT
in Energy Systems
Blockchain technology, known for its
decentralized and immutable ledger capabilities,
combined with IoT devices
that enable real-time data collection and
communication, is transforming energy
systems. This synergy facilitates P2P
energy trading, allowing consumers
and prosumers who both produce and
consume energy to directly exchange
energy without intermediaries. Such
systems enhance transparency, security,
and operational efficiency in energy
distribution.
A systematic review of blockchain applications
in energy reveals their potential
to address challenges related to scalability,
security, and decentralisation in peerto-peer
(P2P) energy trading. The study
highlights the importance of developing
practical, scalable blockchain-based energy
solutions to unlock their full benefits.
Blockchain technology can enhance
transparency, efficiency, and security in
energy transactions, paving the way for a
more resilient and decentralised energy
market. Additionally, it offers promising
solutions for integrating renewable
energy sources, reducing costs, and
empowering consumers. The findings
underscore the necessity of continued
A green economy for sustainable
development.”
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid
Al Maktoum,
Vice President and Prime Minister of
the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of
Dubai
research and innovation to fully realise
blockchain’s transformative impact on
the energy sector.
Implications for UAE and GCC Businesses
and Investments
Economic Diversification: Investments
in advanced energy technologies align
with the GCC’s strategic objectives to
diversify economies beyond oil and gas,
fostering the development of knowledge-based
industries.
Sustainability Goals: Decentralized energy
systems facilitate the integration of
renewable energy sources, supporting
national commitments to sustainability
and carbon reduction. The UAE’s Third
Nationally Determined Contribution underscores
the nation’s recognition of
the urgency of the climate crisis and its
commitment to sustainable development.
Opportunities and Innovations
The integration of blockchain and IoT
offers numerous exciting opportunities:
Scalability Solutions: As large-scale
energy systems continue to expand,
innovative solutions like sharding and
off-chain transactions are being developed
to enhance blockchain scalability,
making systems more efficient.
Energy Efficiency Improvements: New
energy-efficient protocols are being designed
to reduce the energy consumption
of blockchain operations, particularly
by moving away from energy-intensive
proof-of-work consensus mechanisms.
Supportive Regulatory Frameworks:
Collaborative efforts with policymakers
are helping to establish regulatory
frameworks that support the growth of
decentralized energy systems, promoting
innovation and accessibility.
Enhanced Interoperability: Developing
seamless communication between
diverse IoT devices and blockchain
platforms ensures improved efficiency,
reliability, and integration across systems.
Future Outlook and Strategic Recommendations
Invest in Technological Infrastructure:
Developing the necessary infrastructure
to support blockchain and IoT integration
is crucial. This includes investing in smart
grids, IoT sensors, and blockchain platforms
tailored for energy applications.
Collaborate with Innovators: Engaging
with technology startups and research
institutions can drive innovation and pro-
thetechnologyexpress.com
vide access to cutting-edge solutions
in decentralized energy management.
Navigate Regulatory Landscapes: Staying
abreast of evolving regulations is
essential. Collaborating with policymakers
can help shape favorable regulatory
frameworks that promote the adoption
of decentralized energy systems.
Focus on Cybersecurity: Increasing
digitalization of energy systems, robust
cybersecurity measures are essential
to safeguard against potential threats.
Implementing advanced security protocols,
regular system monitoring, and
collaborative efforts with cybersecurity
experts will enhance resilience, ensuring
the safe and efficient operation of
blockchain and IoT-integrated energy
infrastructures in the UAE and GCC.
Educate and Train Workforce: Investing
in education and training programs
is essential to prepare the workforce
for advanced energy technologies. By
enhancing skills in blockchain, IoT, and
cybersecurity, businesses can ensure
efficient operation and management of
innovative energy systems, ultimately
driving growth, sustainability, and resilience
within the UAE and GCC energy
sectors.
The Role of Renewable Energy in Blockchain
Adoption
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region’s
vast renewable energy resources,
especially solar power, provide a significant
edge for blockchain integration.
With its abundant sunlight, the region is
well-positioned to harness solar energy
for blockchain-based systems, enhancing
sustainability and efficiency.
For instance, the United Arab Emirates
(UAE) has initiated the construction of the
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar
Park, anticipated to produce a capacity
of 5,000 megawatts by 2030, which can
sustainably power blockchain operations
like cryptocurrency mining. Similarly,
Oman has invested over $800 million in
crypto-mining operations, leveraging its
renewable energy capacity to support
sustainable mining practices. These
initiatives position the GCC as a leader
in sustainable blockchain integration,
aligning with global trends toward green
energy solutions.
The intersection of blockchain and
IoT is poised to democratize energy
markets in the UAE and GCC, offering
opportunities for increased efficiency,
sustainability, and economic diversification.
Apr 2025 / 17

CRYPTO NEWS
Ripple Secures Full
Regulatory Approval
in UAE for Crypto Payments
Ripple has secured full regulatory
approval from the Dubai Financial
Services Authority (DFSA) to offer
regulated crypto payments within
the Dubai International Financial Centre
(DIFC). This milestone establishes
Ripple as the first blockchain-enabled
payments provider licensed by the
DFSA, underscoring its commitment
to regulatory compliance and expanding
its presence in the Middle East.
Phoenix CEO Acquires Over 20 Million Shares
from Open Market in the UAE Crypto Firm
Munaf Ali, CEO of UAE-based
cryptocurrency firm Phoenix
Group, has acquired over 20
million shares from the open market
since November 2024, reflecting his
confidence in the company’s long-term
growth. This strategic move aligns
executive interests with shareholders
and underscores Phoenix’s commitment
to expanding its digital asset mining
operations. The company is also evaluating
a potential U.S. stock listing to
diversify its global presence.
Crypto.com Becomes
Exclusive Crypto Partner
for UAE’s Tawasal
Al Khaleej
Crypto.com has partnered exclusively
with Tawasal Al Khaleej, a
leading AI company in the UAE, to
integrate cryptocurrency services into
the Tawasal SuperApp. This collaboration
will unfold in two phases: initially,
Tawasal will introduce Crypto.com to its
local partners; subsequently, Crypto.
com’s services will be integrated into
the SuperApp, granting nearly 4 million
users direct access to cryptocurrency
trading and services.
DFSA Approves USDC
and EURC: Dubai’s
Historic Stablecoin
Recognition Boosts
Crypto Adoption
The Dubai Financial Services Authority
(DFSA) has officially approved
Circle’s stablecoins, USD
Coin (USDC) and Euro Coin (EURC), as
recognized crypto tokens within the
Dubai International Financial Centre
(DIFC). This landmark decision allows
over 6,000 firms operating in the DIFC
to integrate these stablecoins into
various financial services, including
payments and treasury management,
thereby enhancing the region’s digital
asset ecosystem.
Dubai State-owned
Bank Emirates NBD
Debuts Crypto Trading
on Liv X app
Emirates NBD, Dubai’s stateowned
bank, has introduced
cryptocurrency trading services
through its digital banking subsidiary,
Liv. The Liv X app now enables users
to buy, hold, and sell major cryptocurrencies,
including Bitcoin, Ether,
Solana, XRP, and Cardano. This service
is facilitated in partnership with
Aquanow, a licensed crypto asset
service provider, and Zodia Custody,
ensuring secure transactions.
18 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
Binance Secures $2
Billion Investment
from MGX in First
Institutional Deal
Binance, the world’s largest
cryptocurrency exchange, has
secured a landmark $2 billion
investment from Abu Dhabi-based
technology investor MGX. Announced
on March 12, 2025, this represents
Binance’s first institutional investment
and the largest ever made in a crypto
company, with the transaction completed
entirely in stablecoins. MGX
now holds a minority stake in Binance,
reflecting its commitment to advancing
blockchain’s transformative potential
for digital finance.
UAE-U.S. Merchandise
Trade Grows 9.47 Percent
to $34.43 Billion
in 2024
The United Arab Emirates’ foreign
trade reached a record AED 3
trillion ($817 billion) in 2024,
marking a 14.6% increase from the
previous year. A significant contributor
to this growth was the surge in
non-oil goods exports, which rose by
27.6% to AED 561.2 billion, accounting
for 18.7% of the total trade. Trade
with the UAE’s top 10 global partners
grew by 10%, while trade with other
nations expanded by 19.2%.
GCC Crypto Ecosystem
Gets Closer to
Mainstream with New
Offering
The Gulf Cooperation Council’s
(GCC) cryptocurrency ecosystem
is advancing towards mainstream
adoption, highlighted by Emirates
NBD’s digital platform, Liv, introducing
cryptocurrency services. This strategic
move by the UAE’s second-largest bank
signifies a pivotal shift towards integrating
blockchain-based finance, aligning
with the region’s ambitions to become
a global crypto hub. Projections indicate
the GCC’s cryptocurrency market will
grow at a compound annual growth rate
(CAGR) of 14.2% through 2027.
Dubai Land Department Begins Real Estate
Tokenization Project
The Dubai Land Department (DLD)
has initiated the pilot phase of
its Real Estate Tokenisation Project,
becoming the first real estate
registration entity in the Middle East
to implement tokenisation on property
title deeds. This initiative, in collaboration
with the Dubai Virtual Assets
Regulatory Authority (VARA) and Dubai
Future Foundation (DFF) through
Sandbox Dubai, aims to convert real
estate assets into digital tokens using
blockchain technology. The project is
expected to drive significant growth
in the real estate tokenisation sector,
with its market value projected to
reach AED 60 billion by 2033, representing
7% of Dubai’s total real estate
transactions.
Unveiling the UAE-
US Crypto Alliance:
High-Level Meeting
Sparks Revolutionary
Digital Currency Dialogue
In December 2024, Abu Dhabi hosted
the Bitcoin MENA Conference,
attracting over 6,000 participants,
including Eric Trump and other notable
figures. The event underscored
the UAE’s growing prominence in the
cryptocurrency sector and sparked
discussions on potential UAE-US collaborations
in digital currency initiatives.
Apr 2025 / 19

Nuclear ENERGY
NUCLEAR
RENAISSANCE:
SMRS AND DATA CENTERS
Small modular reactors (SMRs) are redefining the energy
landscape, emerging as a sustainable solution to meet the
UAE’s growing power demands. As data centres consume
vast amounts of energy to fuel digital transformation, the
integration of SMRs offers a cleaner, more efficient alternative.
This article explores how SMRs could revolutionise
energy supply for tech giants, driving regional innovation
and sustainability.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is
leading the adoption of innovative
energy solutions to meet its growing
digital infrastructure demands. Data
centres, essential for supporting cloud
computing and artificial intelligence (AI),
are consuming vast amounts of energy.
This rising demand poses both challenges
and opportunities. Small Modular
Reactors (SMRs) have emerged as a
promising solution, offering a reliable
and low-carbon energy source. With a
capacity of up to 300 megawatts electric
(MWe), SMRs provide scalable and
sustainable power. As the UAE advances
its clean energy goals, integrating SMRs
could enhance energy security, reduce
20 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
emissions, and strengthen its position
as a digital economy leader.
Traditional Sources vs. Data Centres
and SMRs
Data centres are the backbone of the
digital economy, supporting services from
cloud computing to artificial intelligence
(AI). However, their energy demands are
immense. For instance, Google’s data
centres consumed approximately 26
terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2023, a figure
projected to rise exponentially with the
expansion of AI and other technologies .
Traditional energy sources and existing
grid infrastructures are becoming
increasingly strained, prompting tech
companies to explore alternative, reliable,
and sustainable power solutions. Goldman
Sachs forecasts that data centre power
demand is expected to grow at a 15%
compound annual growth rate (CAGR)
from 2023 to 2030, expanding from
about 3% of total US power demand
currently to 8% by 2030 .
In response to these challenges, SMRs
have emerged as a viable solution. SMRs
are advanced nuclear reactors with a
power capacity of up to 300 megawatts
electric (MWe) per unit, approximately
one-third of traditional nuclear reactors .
Their modular design allows for scalable
deployment, making them suitable for
various applications, including powering
data centres.
Globally, tech giants are recognising
the potential of SMRs. In October 2024,
Google signed a groundbreaking deal to
purchase energy from SMRs supplied
by California’s Kairos Power, aiming to
meet the rising electricity demands of its
AI data centres . Similarly, Amazon has
invested in X-energy to develop 5 gigawatts
(GW) of SMR capacity by 2039 .
SMRs Shaping UAE’s Energy and Digital
Future
For the UAE, integrating SMRs into its
energy mix offers several strategic advantages:
Energy Security and Reliability: SMRs
provide a stable and continuous power
supply, essential for the uninterrupted
operation of data centres. This reliability
is crucial as the UAE positions itself as
a regional digital hub.
Environmental Sustainability: SMRs produce
low carbon emissions, aligning with
the UAE’s commitment to sustainable
development and reducing its carbon
footprint.
Economic Competitiveness: Access to
reliable and clean energy can attract
global tech companies to establish data
centres in the UAE, boosting local employment
and economic growth.
The UAE’s proactive approach is evident
through initiatives like the Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) between
the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation
(ENEC) and GE Hitachi. This agreement
aims to explore future investments in
SMR technology, reinforcing the UAE’s
leadership in nuclear innovation .
What’s Next for SMRs in the UAE and
GCC?
To fully harness the potential of Small
Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the UAE and
the broader Gulf Cooperation Council
(GCC) region, strategic steps are essential.
Implementing the following measures
can ensure a smooth and successful
integration:
Develop Robust Regulations: Establish
clear, transparent, and comprehensive
regulations to govern the deployment
and operation of SMRs. Ensuring safety,
environmental compliance, and public
trust will be critical.
Foster Public-Private Partnerships:
Encourage collaboration between
government entities and private sector
companies. Partnerships can accelerate
innovation, share financial risks,
and bring together global expertise for
SMR projects.
Launch Pilot Projects: Implement smallscale
SMR initiatives to test feasibility,
address technical challenges, and build
local technical expertise. Demonstration
projects can provide valuable insights
before large-scale deployment.
Strengthen Regional Cooperation: Collaborate
with GCC nations to create a
unified regional strategy for nuclear energy.
Joint efforts can promote knowledge
sharing, optimise resources, and ensure
energy security across the region.
Enhance Community Engagement:
Promote transparent communication
to educate the public about the safety,
reliability, and environmental benefits
of SMRs. Building societal acceptance
through awareness campaigns and consultations
will be essential.
By taking these actionable steps, the
UAE can position itself as a leader in the
adoption of SMRs, driving sustainable
energy innovation while supporting the
growing digital economy.
Leveraging AI and SMR Synergies for
Future-Ready Infrastructure
As the UAE accelerates its digital transformation,
the convergence of Artificial
Intelligence (AI) and Small Modular
Reactors (SMRs) presents a significant
opportunity to create intelligent, self-optimising
energy systems. AI-powered data
centres require consistent, high-density
energy to support large-scale processing
and machine learning operations. SMRs,
with their scalable and stable output,
provide a complementary solution. But
beyond power supply, AI can also play
a vital role in SMR operation and safety.
AI algorithms can be deployed to enhance
reactor efficiency through predictive
maintenance, real-time monitoring,
and anomaly detection. By analysing vast
datasets, AI ensures early identification
of potential issues, enabling preventive
actions and improving overall safety.
Additionally, digital twin technologies,
AI-driven virtual replicas of SMRs, are
being developed to simulate operations,
test emergency responses, and streamline
training processes.
Recent developments highlight the
relevance of this synergy. In February
2025, the International Atomic Energy
Agency (IAEA) hosted a summit emphasising
AI’s role in future nuclear technologies,
encouraging countries like the
UAE to adopt integrated digital-nuclear
solutions. By embracing this intersection
of AI and SMRs, the UAE can lead the
next wave of innovation in digital infrastructure,
positioning itself as a global
model for sustainable, tech-forward
energy systems.
Embracing SMRs for a Sustainable
Digital Future
The UAE’s adoption of Small Modular
Reactors (SMRs) offers a transformative
solution to sustainably power its
expanding data centre sector. By integrating
this advanced technology,
the nation can bolster energy security,
reduce carbon emissions, and cement
its status as a regional digital leader.
Strategic investments, clear regulations,
and public-private collaboration will be
crucial to unlocking the full potential of
SMRs. As the demand for reliable, clean
energy grows, the UAE’s proactive approach
positions it to lead the region in
energy innovation and digital growth.
Apr 2025 / 21

Launch EXPRESS
XCAIM LAPTOP:
PIONEERING AI INTEGRATION IN
UAE’S TECH LANDSCAPE
The UAE’s technology sector is abuzz with the anticipated
arrival of the xCaim Laptop, a device poised to redefine
user interaction through advanced artificial intelligence
(AI). Developed by Emdoor Digital Technology Co., Ltd, the
xCaim Laptop introduces a unique AI module that promises
to enhance productivity and user experience.
The hallmark of the xCaim Laptop is its detachable AI module,
which magnetically attaches above the screen. Equipped
with a camera, this module enables the laptop to perceive
the user’s environment in real-time. Such awareness allows
the device to automatically adjust to various working modes,
such as transitioning into a ‘meeting mode’ during conferences,
effectively functioning as a personal assistant. When
not in use externally, the module integrates seamlessly into
the laptop, serving as a secondary screen for displaying
shortcuts and notifications tailored to user needs.
This innovation aligns with the UAE’s vision of fostering
technological advancement and smart solutions. By incorporating
AI that adapts to user behaviour and surroundings,
the xCaim Laptop offers a level of personalisation previously
unseen in the market. This could significantly benefit professionals
who require adaptable tools to navigate dynamic
work environments.
The UAE market has demonstrated a growing appetite for
cutting-edge laptops that blend performance with innovative
features. Retailers like Sharaf DG and Noon have expanded
their offerings to include a diverse range of laptops catering
to various needs, from high-performance gaming machines
to versatile workstations. The introduction of the xCaim
Laptop is expected to complement this trend, providing
consumers with a device that not only meets performance
expectations but also introduces novel functionalities through
its AI capabilities.
While the exact release date and pricing details for the
xCaim Laptop in the UAE remain under wraps, industry insiders
anticipate its arrival will set a new benchmark for intelligent
computing in the region. As the UAE continues to position
itself as a hub for technological innovation, the xCaim Laptop
exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking products that resonate
with both business leaders and tech enthusiasts alike.
The impending launch of the xCaim Laptop represents a
significant leap in integrating AI within personal computing.
Its ability to adapt to user environments and provide intuitive
assistance underscores a broader trend towards smarter, more
responsive technology. For the UAE’s tech-savvy consumers
and professionals, the xCaim Laptop offers a glimpse into
the future of personalised computing experiences.
22 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
SAMSUNG GALAXY S25 ULTRA:
ANTICIPATED ARRIVAL IN THE UAE’S
SMARTPHONE MARKET
Samsung is poised to introduce the Galaxy S25 Edge,
a device that has garnered attention for its ultra-thin
profile and advanced features. Reports suggest that
the smartphone will be unveiled on April 16, with sales commencing
in May.
The Galaxy S25 Edge is expected to feature a sleek flatframe
design with a frosted glass back and a redesigned rear
camera module, distinguishing it from other S25 models. It is
anticipated to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset,
coupled with 12GB of RAM, ensuring robust performance for
multitasking and demanding applications.
The device is rumoured to include a dual rear camera setup,
featuring a 200-megapixel main sensor and a 12-megapixel
ultra-wide lens, aiming to deliver high-quality photography
experiences. Additionally, it is expected to house a 3,900mAh
battery, which may raise concerns about battery longevity
compared to other models in the S25 lineup.
In the UAE, retailers such as Sharaf DG have previously
facilitated pre-orders for Samsung’s Galaxy S series, indicating
a strong market presence and consumer interest in
the region. While specific pricing details for the Galaxy S25
Edge in the UAE are yet to be announced, it is anticipated
to be positioned between the Galaxy S25+ and the Galaxy
S25 Ultra.
The impending launch of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
is set to offer UAE consumers a smartphone that combines
an ultra-thin design with advanced technological features.
As the official release approaches, further details will provide
a clearer picture of how this device stands within the
competitive smartphone market.
PHILIPS HUE SECURE DOORBELL:
ANTICIPATED ENTRY INTO THE UAE’S SMART HOME MARKET
Philips Hue, renowned for its innovative smart lighting
solutions, is reportedly developing its first video doorbell,
the Philips Hue Secure Doorbell. This development was
inadvertently revealed through an update to the Philips Hue
app, which included setup instructions for the unannounced
device.
The doorbell is expected to feature a straightforward,
rectangular design with a camera positioned above a large
button encircled by an LED ring. Preliminary information suggests
that it may be a wired device, utilising both Bluetooth
for initial setup and Wi-Fi for regular operation. Anticipated
functionalities include 1080p video resolution, two-way communication,
and end-to-end encryption, aligning with the
features of existing Hue Secure cameras.
In the UAE, the smart home market is experiencing significant
growth, with consumers increasingly adopting integrated
security solutions. The introduction of the Philips
Hue Secure Doorbell could cater to this demand, offering
seamless integration with the existing Philips Hue ecosystem.
This integration may allow users to synchronise their
lighting and security systems, enhancing both convenience
and safety within their homes.
While specific details regarding the release date and pricing
in the UAE remain undisclosed, industry observers anticipate
that the Philips Hue Secure Doorbell will be available later
this year. As the launch approaches, further information is
expected to provide a clearer understanding of its capabilities
and market positioning.
The forthcoming Philips Hue Secure Doorbell represents a
strategic expansion of Philips Hue’s product portfolio into the
smart home security sector. By potentially offering advanced
features and integration capabilities, it stands to make a notable
impact on the UAE’s evolving smart home landscape.
Apr 2025 / 23

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
AI’S ENERGY
APPETITE:
BALANCING INNOVATION
AND SUSTAINABILITY
As artificial intelligence (AI) revolutionises industries, its
energy consumption is surging. Data centres powering AI
algorithms demand vast amounts of electricity, straining
traditional energy grids. In the UAE, a leader in tech innovation,
the challenge is clear: how to balance AI growth
with sustainability. This article explores how renewable
energy solutions can meet AI’s growing energy appetite,
ensuring a greener digital future.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising
industries worldwide,
driving efficiencies and fostering
innovation. However, this rapid advancement
comes with a significant increase in
energy consumption, particularly within
data centres that support AI operations.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a nation
renowned for its technological ambitions,
addressing AI’s growing energy
demands sustainably is both a challenge
and an opportunity.
24 \ Apr 2025

What’s Happening with AI’s Energy
Demands?
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence
(AI) technologies has led to a
significant increase in data processing
requirements, resulting in substantial
energy consumption. Training large
AI models, such as OpenAI’s GPT-3,
consumed over 1,200 megawatt-hours
(MWh) of electricity in 2024, highlighting
the intensive energy needs associated
with AI development.
Globally, data centres are expanding
rapidly to accommodate the growing
demands of AI workloads. In 2023, AI
operations accounted for approximately
15% of total data centre power consumption.
Projections indicate that electricity
consumption from data centres, driven
by AI and other digital services, could
double by 2028, potentially surpassing
the total energy consumption of entire
countries.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE),
the data centre market is experiencing
rapid growth, fuelled by digital transformation
initiatives and increased cloud
adoption. Forecasts suggest that the
country’s data centre capacity will grow
from approximately 495.7 megawatts
(MW) in 2025 to 917.7 MW by 2030,
reflecting a compound annual growth
rate (CAGR) of 13.11%. This expansion
underscores the escalating energy requirements
associated with AI integration
in the region.
The UAE’s commitment to becoming
a global technology hub necessitates
addressing the energy implications of AI.
Balancing technological advancement
with sustainable energy practices is
crucial to ensure that the growth in AI
and data centre capacities aligns with
the nation’s environmental goals and
energy infrastructure capabilities.
Why AI’s Energy Demand Matters
The rising energy consumption of artificial
intelligence (AI) has significant implications
for the UAE’s energy infrastructure
and sustainability goals. As a leader in
technological innovation, the UAE has
committed to its Energy Strategy 2050,
which targets increasing clean energy’s
contribution to 50% of the energy mix
and reducing carbon emissions from power
generation by 70%. Achieving this
could save the nation around AED 700
billion by 2050. However, the growing
energy needs of AI-driven data centres
may strain the grid and challenge these
goals if not managed efficiently.
From an investment perspective, addressing
AI’s energy appetite is essential.
Investors are increasingly focusing on
Environmental, Social, and Governance
(ESG) criteria when evaluating companies.
Businesses that prioritise clean energy
adoption and sustainable operations
are more likely to attract favourable
investments. For the UAE, integrating
renewable energy and adopting energy-efficient
technologies will not only
support its net-zero ambitions but also
enhance its appeal to ESG-conscious
stakeholders.
Moreover, sustainable energy strategies
can strengthen the country’s reputation
as a regional hub for AI innovation.
By leading the transition toward greener
AI operations, the UAE can position itself
as a model for balancing technological
advancement with sustainability, ensuring
long-term economic and environmental
resilience.
What’s Next for Sustainable AI Growth?
To harmonise AI advancement with
sustainable energy practices, the UAE
can consider several strategic actions:
1. Invest in Renewable Energy Integration:
Aligning with the UAE’s Energy
The exponential growth
of AI is also creating
a power surge that no
single energy source can
meet alone.”
H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber,
UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced
Technology.
thetechnologyexpress.com
Strategy 2050, increasing the share of
renewable energy sources is essential.
Collaborations between technology firms
and renewable energy providers can
facilitate this integration. For instance,
Microsoft has partnered with Abu Dhabi
National Oil Company (ADNOC) and
Masdar to power its data centres with
renewable energy, exemplifying a commitment
to sustainable AI operations.
2. Enhance Energy Efficiency in Data
Centres: Implementing advanced cooling
technologies and AI-driven energy
management systems can significantly
reduce energy consumption. The collaboration
between Intel and e& in the
UAE to develop sustainable modular data
centres showcases efforts to optimise
energy efficiency in AI infrastructure.
3. Develop Supportive Policies and
Regulations: Establishing policies that
promote the use of renewable energy
in data centres is vital. The UAE Ministry
of Energy & Infrastructure’s formation of
a national team to assess the impact of
data centres on the energy sector and
develop regulatory frameworks reflects
proactive governance in this area.
4. Foster Public-Private Partnerships:
Collaborations between government entities
and private companies can drive
innovation in sustainable AI practices.
SoftBank’s $130 million investment in
Terabase Energy, a company utilising robots
and AI to build solar farms, illustrates
the potential of such partnerships to
enhance renewable energy deployment.
5. Invest in Emerging Technologies:
Exploring new technologies, such as
co-packaged optics, can lead to significant
energy savings in data transmission.
While Nvidia’s CEO highlighted
that this technology is not yet ready for
widespread use in GPUs, its potential
to reduce energy consumption in data
centres remains promising.
Embracing Sustainable AI Growth
The UAE is at a critical point where advancing
AI innovation must align with
sustainable energy practices. By increasing
investments in renewable energy,
enhancing data centre efficiency, and
forming strategic partnerships, the nation
can meet rising AI energy demands
without undermining its climate goals.
This proactive approach will ensure
technological progress and environmental
responsibility go hand in hand,
reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in the
global digital economy while fostering
a greener, more resilient future.
Apr 2025 / 25

STARTUP Spotlight
VERBATICA
FOUNDED BY: NIKITA SAVILOV
YEAR STARTED: 2022
EYAANA
FOUNDED BY: JOHN BUSH
YEAR STARTED: 2024
Founded in Dubai, Eyaana is an AIfirst
sales and support solution that
is transforming how businesses
interact with their customers. With its
headquarters in Business Bay, Dubai, the
company leverages advanced artificial
intelligence to automate customer interactions,
boost sales and streamline
multi-channel communications. Eyaana’s
platform offers multilingual support across
web, mobile, WhatsApp, and Instagram,
ensuring that businesses can cater to the
UAE’s diverse demographic effectively.
Eyaana’s innovative approach integrates
AI-powered chatbots with an
in-built CRM, enabling companies to
manage queries, schedule appointments,
and close deals with ease. By
automating routine tasks, the platform
allows human agents to focus on more
complex customer needs, thereby increasing
efficiency and reducing operational
costs. Its adaptive algorithms
26 \ Apr 2025
Verbatica is a Dubai-based technology
startup that has rapidly
positioned itself as an innovator
in the field of conversational artificial
intelligence and natural language processing.
Established in late 2022 by a
diverse team of experts in computer
science, linguistics, and data analytics,
the company set out to transform
business-customer interactions by offering
solutions that are both intuitive
and data-driven.
Over the past year, Verbatica has
launched its flagship platform, Verbatica
AI, which utilises advanced machine
learning algorithms and semantic analysis
to deliver accurate, real-time responses
across various digital channels. By integrating
with cloud service providers such
as Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud,
the platform ensures robust scalability,
security, and performance. Several
industry leaders in the UAE, including
prominent financial institutions and retail
chains, have already adopted Verbatica
AI to enhance customer engagement
and streamline support processes. One
notable case involves a major bank that
achieved a 30% reduction in query res-
provide personalised responses in real
time, ensuring a seamless and engaging
customer experience around the clock.
Recent developments show that Eyaana
is rapidly gaining traction among UAE
businesses across various sectors, including
real estate, hospitality, and retail.
The company’s flexible pay-as-you-go
model has made its cutting-edge solution
accessible to small and medium-sized
enterprises, as well as large corporations.
With robust security measures
and customisation options, Eyaana is
designed to scale effortlessly alongside
its clients’ growth.
Eyaana’s leadership team is committed
olution times following the platform’s
implementation.
Verbatica’s commitment to innovation
is further demonstrated by its partnerships
with academic institutions and industry
experts, fostering a collaborative
environment that continuously refines its
technology. The startup’s data-driven
approach not only benefits businesses
by reducing operational costs but also
improves the overall consumer experience
by providing swift and accurate
assistance.
Verbatica’s pioneering efforts in conversational
AI are reshaping customer
service standards within the UAE and
beyond. With its state-of-the-art platform,
strategic collaborations, and a focus on
continuous improvement, Verbatica is
well-equipped to lead the digital transformation
era, delivering significant value
to both enterprises and end-users alike.
Looking ahead, Verbatica plans to expand
its service offerings, invest further in
research and development, and forge
new partnerships with global technology
leaders, ensuring it remains at the
forefront of innovation in conversational
AI. This vision fuels sustainable growth.
to continuous innovation, recently showcasing
its AI capabilities at prominent
industry events such as GITEX Global.
This visibility has further cemented its
reputation as a pioneer in AI-driven customer
support solutions within the region.
As the UAE continues to establish itself
as a global tech hub, Eyaana’s contribution
to efficient, multilingual customer
engagement is setting a new benchmark
in the industry.
Eyaana enhances customer interactions
and enables businesses to capitalise
on the benefits of AI technology
by offering flexible, scalable, and secure
solutions.

thetechnologyexpress.com
VENUEWISE
FOUNDED BY: POORYA MONTASERI
YEAR STARTED: 2023
Venue Wise is a comprehensive
online platform based in the United
Arab Emirates, specifically
designed to connect event organizers
with an extensive array of venues across
the region. The platform streamlines
the event planning process by offering
detailed and specialized information
about various event spaces, thereby
eliminating the need for organizers to
navigate multiple websites or engage
in extensive correspondence to gather
venue details.
Venue Wise serves a dual purpose:
it facilitates search and discovery for
users seeking venues and provides
venue owners with increased visibility
by allowing them to list their spaces on
the platform. This symbiotic approach
ensures that event organizers have access
to a diverse range of venues, while
venue owners can effectively showcase
their offerings to potential clients.
The platform caters to a wide spectrum
of events, including weddings,
conferences, parties, and corporate
gatherings. Notable venues featured
on Venue Wise encompass esteemed
locations such as the Dubai Opera and
The Square - Outdoor Event & Party
Venue Dubai, among others.
In addition to venue listings, Venue
Wise offers a blog that provides insights
into the event industry, venue
recommendations, and trends. For instance,
articles discussing the top 10
most-searched event venues in Dubai
for 2024 and trends in the UAE event
industry for 2025 offer valuable information
to event organizers.
Venue Wise positions itself as more
than just a directory; it aims to be a community
where event bookers and venues
connect to create memorable events.
By standardizing venue presentations
and highlighting their full potential, the
platform simplifies the selection process
for organizers and enhances the visibility
of venues.
Baraka, founded in 2020 by CEO
Feras Jalbout, is a Dubai-based
fintech startup that has transformed
the investment landscape in the Middle
East by providing a commission-free investment
platform. The platform offers
users access to over 6,000 U.S. stocks
and ETFs without requiring a minimum
investment, thereby democratizing investment
opportunities in the region.
In its mission to make investing accessible
to everyone, Baraka emphasizes
financial literacy by providing educational
content, market news, and in-depth stock
analysis. This approach empowers users
to make informed investment decisions.
Baraka has achieved significant milestones
since its inception. In 2021, the
company raised $4 million in a seed funding
round led by Class 5 Global, with
participation from FJ Labs, IMO Ventures,
The Community Fund, VentureSouq, and
Careem co-founder Abdulla Elyas. This
funding supported the launch of its investment
app, connecting retail investors
in the Middle East with U.S. markets.
The following year, in 2022, Baraka
secured $20 million in a Series A funding
round led by Valar Ventures, further
fueling its expansion plans across the
MENA region.
Operating from the Dubai International
Financial Centre (DIFC), Baraka is regulated
by the Dubai Financial Services
Authority (DFSA), ensuring compliance
with financial regulations and providing
users with a secure investment environment.
The Baraka app is available for download
on both the Apple App Store and
Google Play Store for residents and
citizens over the age of 18 in the UAE,
Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait.
Through its user-friendly interface,
commitment to financial education, and
adherence to regulatory standards, Baraka
continues to empower individuals in
the Middle East to take control of their
financial futures by making investing
more accessible and transparent.
BARAKA
FOUNDED BY: FERAS JALBOUT
YEAR STARTED: 2020
Apr 2025 / 27

28 \ Apr 2025
COVER

thetechnologyexpress.com
STORY
Apr 2025 / 29

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
AHMAD ALI ALWAN
CEO, HUB71+ DIGITAL ASSETS
Ahmad Ali Alwan is the CEO of Hub71+ Digital Assets,
a leading platform in the UAE that drives innovation
in digital finance and blockchain. With a strong background
in technology and finance, he has transformed
the company into a dynamic force bridging traditional markets
with modern digital solutions. His strategic vision has led
to pioneering initiatives that enhance transaction security
and streamline asset management, establishing the firm as
a trusted partner for investors.
Under his leadership, Hub71+ Digital Assets has broadened
its portfolio by investing in cutting-edge projects and forging
key partnerships with local regulators and global technology
leaders. His commitment to transparency and sustainable
growth has spurred the development of innovative digital
products that simplify financial transactions and empower
users. This forward-thinking approach has boosted investor
confidence and ensured a secure environment for digital
trading.
Alwan continues to drive progress by championing innovation
and fostering a culture of excellence. His forward-looking
strategies position Hub71+ Digital Assets at the forefront of
the digital revolution, paving the way for long-term success.
His dedication inspires trust among investors and stakeholders,
ensuring the company remains a key player in shaping
the future of digital finance. His leadership ensures enduring
innovation and market resilience.
AHMED BIN SULAYEM
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN & CEO, DMCC
Ahmed Bin Sulayem is the Executive Chairman and
CEO of DMCC, one of the world’s leading free zone
authorities based in the UAE. With a long-standing
career in business and leadership, he has established
a reputation for driving economic growth and innovation. His
strategic insights have enabled DMCC to become a global
hub for trade, commodities and services.
Under his dynamic leadership, DMCC has seen exponential
growth, attracting international businesses and fostering a
vibrant community of enterprises. His focus on diversifying
business services, encouraging sustainable practices, and
adopting cutting-edge technology has transformed the organisation
into a progressive centre of commerce. Initiatives
led by him have significantly enhanced investor confidence
and streamlined regulatory frameworks, positioning DMCC
as a benchmark in the free zone sector.
Bin Sulayem’s unwavering commitment to excellence and
innovation continues to shape DMCC’s future. His forward-thinking
policies and dedication to economic development have
solidified DMCC’s standing on the global stage. His efforts
not only drive commercial success but also contribute to
the broader vision of a diversified and resilient economy in
the UAE. His leadership remains a guiding light for emerging
markets and established enterprises alike. His vision and
integrity continue to inspire transformative growth across
DMCC remarkably.
30 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
AMALIA GROCHAL
CEO, MIRAI FUND
Amalia Grochal is the Founder and Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) of MIRAI FUND, a venture capital and
advisory firm specializing in Web3 technologies. Her
journey into the blockchain realm began in 2010 as
one of the early Bitcoin miners, transforming a post-production
studio into an experimental mining operation. This early
exposure to decentralized currencies sparked her interest
in smart contracts and the broader blockchain ecosystem.
In 2011, Amalia launched a financial technology solution
aimed at simplifying access to mortgage rate comparisons.
By 2015, she relocated to the UAE, dedicating herself to
establishing the region as a global cryptocurrency hub. Her
collaborative efforts with governmental entities, regulators,
and SMEs have been instrumental in fostering a supportive
environment for blockchain innovation.
In 2021, Amalia founded MIRAI FUND, focusing on investments
in Layer 0, Layer 1, and Layer 2 solutions, EVM-compatible
decentralized finance (DeFi), zero-knowledge proofs,
and both software and hardware infrastructure. The firm has
recently expanded its interests to include DeFi initiatives on
the Bitcoin network.
Amalia’s expertise in DeFi architecture has led her to advocate
for the gradual legalization of Web3 assets In 2023,
she joined the Ordinals Council. Additionally, she leads due
diligence processes for ToshiPad, ensuring the credibility
and viability of prospective blockchain projects.
BEN ZHOU
CEO, BYBIT
Ben Zhou is the co-founder and CEO of Bybit, a prominent
cryptocurrency exchange established in 2018.
Born in China, Zhou spent his teenage years in New
Zealand before pursuing higher education in the United
States. Upon returning to China, he served as the General
Manager for the Greater China region at the forex and CFD
broker XM. In 2017, Zhou ventured into the cryptocurrency
space by launching a YouTube channel aimed at educating
viewers about digital currencies. This endeavor laid the
groundwork for the founding of Bybit in early 2018.
Under Zhou’s leadership, Bybit has grown into one of the
world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, boasting over
50 million users. In February 2025, Bybit faced a significant
challenge when it suffered a $1.5 billion hack, the largest
security breach in crypto history at the time. Zhou responded
swiftly, taking charge within 30 minutes of learning about
the incident. His priority is ensuring transparency and working
to restore user trust. Despite the crisis, Bybit continued
to process withdrawals and secured emergency funding to
replenish its reserves within 72 hours.
Zhou’s proactive and transparent approach during the
crisis highlighted his commitment to Bybit’s users and the
broader cryptocurrency community. His leadership has been
instrumental in navigating the complex and rapidly evolving
crypto landscape. Zhou remains an active participant in the
industry, sharing insights and updates with his audience.
Apr 2025 / 31

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
BRAD GARLINGHOUSE
CEO, RIPPLE
Brad Garlinghouse is the CEO of Ripple, a global payments
company that leverages blockchain technology to
transform cross-border transactions. With a strategic
vision that combines innovative financial solutions
and advanced digital infrastructure, he has played a pivotal
role in extending Ripple’s influence to markets beyond its
US base, including the rapidly evolving UAE. His expertise in
digital finance has driven significant advancements in how
international payments are conducted, promoting efficiency
and transparency across the industry.
Under Garlinghouse’s leadership, Ripple has forged important
partnerships with financial institutions and regulatory bodies,
ensuring that its technology meets high compliance standards
while facilitating seamless, real-time global transactions. His
proactive approach to addressing regulatory challenges has
not only enhanced Ripple’s reputation but also fostered a
more secure and accessible financial ecosystem for users
worldwide. By championing a forward-thinking strategy, he
has enabled Ripple to adapt to dynamic market conditions
and to lead the digital payments revolution.
His dedication to innovation and commitment to operational
excellence continue to inspire confidence among investors,
clients, and industry stakeholders. Garlinghouse’s resolute
leadership has positioned Ripple as a key player in the digital
economy, driving progress and setting new benchmarks in
global finance.
EDY HADDAD
CO-FOUNDER & CTO, PWR LABS
Edy Haddad is the Co-founder and Chief Technology
Officer (CTO) of PWR Labs, an innovative tech firm
headquartered in Dubai. With over seven years of experience
in technology and Web3, Haddad has played
a vital role in the development of PWR Chain—the world’s
first Layer 0 blockchain. This groundbreaking infrastructure
offers direct interoperability with Web2 and supports multiple
programming languages and frameworks, enabling seamless
application deployment and unprecedented flexibility
for developers.
Haddad’s leadership has been key to the introduction of
the Delegated Proof of Power (DPOP) consensus algorithm,
a unique approach that strengthens decentralization and enhances
network security. DPOP empowers applications to
function as full-fledged software systems, surpassing the
constraints of traditional smart contract sandboxes.
A respected voice in the blockchain community, Haddad
frequently shares his insights at global conferences and
events. He has spoken on scaling the Ethereum Virtual Machine
(EVM) in Layer 2 environments and advancing the
capabilities of PWR Chain.
At PWR Labs, Haddad remains committed to pushing the
boundaries of blockchain technology. His focus is on developing
scalable, energy-efficient, and accessible solutions
that effectively bridge the gap between Web2 and Web3,
driving the next generation of digital innovation.
32 \ Apr 2025

30 pioneers in smart home tech
thetechnologyexpress.com
FAISAL TOUKAN
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, ZIINA
Faisal Toukan, the Co-founder and CEO of Ziina, a fintech
pioneer transforming digital payments in the Middle East.
Since co-founding Ziina in 2020 alongside Sarah Toukan
and Andrew Gold, Faisal has driven the Dubai-based
startup to the forefront of the UAE’s peer-to-peer payment
ecosystem. Inspired by global platforms like Venmo, Ziina
enables instant money transfers using just a phone number,
eliminating the need for IBANs or SWIFT codes.
Under Faisal’s leadership, Ziina raised $22 million in Series
A funding in 2024, led by Altos Ventures. This capital is fueling
its evolution from a payments app to a comprehensive
financial services provider. The company’s acquisition of the
Stored Value Facility (SVF) license from the UAE Central Bank
marked a major regulatory milestone, strengthening its credibility
and supporting national expansion efforts. Additionally,
Ziina has become a principal member of Visa and Mastercard
networks, allowing it to offer Banking Identification Number
(BIN) sponsorships to businesses.
Ziina’s success is underscored by a tenfold increase in
annual revenue and over AED 1 billion in processed transactions.
Faisal’s mission extends beyond innovation—he aims
to promote financial freedom for individuals and SMEs across
the region. His prior role at blockchain-driven Dunya Labs
and experience at Y Combinator shape his forward-thinking
approach. He continues to be a driving force behind the
future of digital finance in the Middle East.
GRACY CHEN
CEO, BITGET
Gracy Chen, appointed as CEO of Bitget in May 2024,
brings over a decade of experience in business management,
marketing, and investment. Her journey into
the cryptocurrency realm began in 2014 during her
tenure as a television host, where interactions with industry
leaders like Tim Draper sparked her interest in blockchain
technology. This curiosity led her to invest in several crypto
startups, including BitKeep (now Bitget Wallet), a leading
decentralized wallet in Asia.
Chen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics
from the National University of Singapore and an MBA from
the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). During her
time at MIT, she co-presided over the MIT Sloan Blockchain
Club, deepening her engagement with blockchain technology,
marketing, and entrepreneurship.
In June 2022, Chen joined Bitget as Managing Director, leading
the company’s global expansion strategies. Her leadership
was instrumental in quadrupling Bitget’s user base through
strategic partnerships, including a notable collaboration with
football legend Lionel Messi, and establishing a robust global
affiliate network. These efforts solidified Bitget’s position as
a top-five crypto exchange and Web3 platform.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Chen is a strong
advocate for diversity and inclusion within the crypto industry.
She spearheaded initiatives like #Blockchain4Youth and
#Blockchain4Her, aiming to inspire the younger generation.
Apr 2025 / 33

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
HUBERTUS THONHAUSER
CHAIRMAN, GHAF CAPITAL PARTNERS
Hubertus Thonhauser is a seasoned entrepreneur and
investor with over two decades of experience in
founding, scaling, and managing companies across
various sectors. He currently serves as the Partner
and Chairman of Ghaf Capital Partners, a Dubai-based private
capital firm specializing in blockchain and Web3 technologies.
In 2012, Thonhauser co-founded Babil Games FZ LLC,
a leading mobile games publisher in the MENA region. His
strategic leadership contributed to the company’s success,
culminating in its acquisition by the NASDAQ-listed Stillfront
Group in 2016.
Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Thonhauser has
been an active angel investor, backing various projects in
the blockchain space, including layer-one protocols, crypto-derivatives
providers, and institutional custodian solutions.
He is also a founding partner of Enabling Future SPV Ltd.,
a venture capital firm established in 2015 that focuses on
fintech, marketplaces, and blockchain technologies.
Thonhauser’s expertise extends to corporate governance,
as evidenced by his roles as former Chairman of the Tezos
Foundation Council and Director at Stadtcasino Baden AG.
He holds an MBA from The Open University Business School,
Under his leadership, Ghaf Capital Partners aims to act as
strategic partners and growth accelerators for their portfolio
companies, embodying the resilience and adaptability symbolized
by the Ghaf tree.
ILMAN SHAZHAEV
FOUNDER & CEO, FARCANA
Ilman Shazhaev, born on May 13, 1993, in Grozny, Chechen
Republic, is a scientist and tech entrepreneur known
for his pioneering work in IT and DeepTech engineering.
He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Informatics and Computing
from Moscow State Road & Automobile University
in 2015, studied Mechanical Engineering at Harbin Institute
of Technology in China, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in
Management of Science and Engineering at Shanghai Jiao
Tong University.
In 2019, Shazhaev co-founded Acoustery, a health tech
firm that developed AI technology for the early detection of
respiratory diseases. His drive for innovation continued with
the launch of MetaDeSci in 2022, a decentralised science
metaverse platform that bridges the gap between scientists,
gamers, and investors. That same year, he founded Farcana,
a Dubai-based gaming studio merging competitive gaming
with blockchain infrastructure.
Under his leadership, Farcana introduced the Play-to-Hash
model, enabling players to earn Bitcoin through in-game accomplishments.
In December 2023, the studio raised $10
million in seed funding from major backers including Animoca
Brands and Polygon Ventures.
Shazhaev’s vision for Farcana is to transform gaming into a
space where players evolve from mere participants to value
creators and contributors, reshaping the landscape of esports
and blockchain.
34 \ Apr 2025

30 pioneers in smart home tech
thetechnologyexpress.com
JEREMY ALLAIRE
CO-FOUNDER, CHAIRMAN, & CEO, CIRCLE
Jeremy Allaire is the Co-founder, Chairman, and CEO of
Circle, a global financial technology firm renowned for
its pioneering work in digital currencies and blockchain
technology. With over two decades of experience in
building and leading global internet software platforms, Allaire
has significantly influenced the fintech landscape.
In 2013, Allaire co-founded Circle, aiming to revolutionise
the financial system by leveraging blockchain technology. The
company’s flagship product, USD Coin (USDC), has become
one of the world’s leading stablecoins, facilitating seamless
transactions across various platforms. Under his leadership,
Circle has achieved several key regulatory approvals in multiple
jurisdictions, including the UAE, where it became the
first stablecoin issuer granted clearance to operate in Dubai.
Before establishing Circle, Allaire founded and served as
CEO of Brightcove, a pioneering online video platform. He also
co-founded Allaire Corporation, where he was instrumental
in developing the ColdFusion web development platform,
later acquired by Macromedia. His extensive expertise has
led him to provide expert testimony on digital assets and
monetary policy before the U.S. Senate and to be named
to the International Monetary Fund’s High-Level Advisory
Group on FinTech.
Allaire’s strategic vision continues to drive Circle’s mission
to promote global economic prosperity through the frictionless
exchange of financial value.
KHALIL ALAMI
CEO, TELR
Khalil Alami is the Founder and CEO of Telr, a leading
online payment gateway based in Dubai. With over
23 years of experience in financial services, fintech,
and payments across the US, UAE, Jordan, and Saudi
Arabia, Alami has built a reputation as a prominent fintech
innovator in the MENA region.
Under his visionary leadership, Telr has emerged as a pioneer
in digital payments. It was the first platform in the
region to achieve both PCI DSS Level 1 and NESA certifications,
reflecting its strong focus on security and regulatory
compliance. Today, Telr supports over 120 currencies and
30 languages, enabling seamless payment processing for
a wide customer base.
Alami has introduced innovative solutions such as Telr Finance,
which provides merchants with swift access to working
capital, and Telr Split Payments, aimed at simplifying complex
reconciliation procedures for businesses. These offerings
highlight Telr’s commitment to merchant empowerment and
operational efficiency.
His strategic leadership has earned Telr numerous acco-
lades, including a spot in Forbes’ Top 30 Fintech Companies
of 2023 and the “Payment Gateway of the Year” title from
Entrepreneur Middle East. Focused on financial inclusion and
scalable digital infrastructure, Alami continues to steer Telr
towards reshaping the digital commerce landscape across
emerging markets.
Apr 2025 / 35

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
KORI LEON
CO-FOUNDER & COO, PIXELVERSE
Kori Leon is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer
(COO) of Pixelverse, a fast-growing gaming ecosystem
leveraging The Open Network (TON) blockchain. Under
his strategic and operational leadership, Pixelverse
successfully launched Pixeltap, a Telegram mini-game that
amassed over 50 million players within weeks of its June
2024 release. This rapid adoption reflects Leon’s expertise
in executing high-impact go-to-market strategies and his
deep understanding of the Web3 gaming space.
Before co-founding Pixelverse, Leon played a key role at
Binance, where he became the first employee in France. He
was instrumental in making France the exchange’s largest
market in Europe and contributed significantly to launching
the Binance NFT platform. His tenure also included leading
business development at Trust Wallet, strengthening his
expertise in decentralised finance and blockchain-based
applications.
Leon holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University
of Montpellier, a foundation that complements his analytical
approach and business agility. His unique blend of healthcare
education and blockchain experience has shaped Pixelverse’s
mission to deliver immersive, scalable, and community-driven
gaming solutions. As COO, Leon remains dedicated to
positioning Pixelverse as a pioneer in decentralised gaming,
committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and user
engagement in the digital entertainment landscape.
KRISTIINA LUMESTE
SENIOR EXECUTIVE OFFICER, KLUMI VENTURES
Kristiina Lumeste is the Founder and Senior Executive
Officer (SEO) of Klumi Ventures, the first female-led
Web3 venture capital firm headquartered in Abu Dhabi.
Under her leadership, Klumi Ventures emerged as the
UAE’s pioneering Web3 VC firm regulated by the Financial
Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) at Abu Dhabi Global
Market (ADGM). The firm launched two landmark funds: a
$15 million Qualified Investors Fund to back pre-seed and
seed-stage Web3 startups, and a flagship $100 million fund
targeting emerging technologies and decentralised innovations.
Before establishing Klumi Ventures, Lumeste was instrumental
in shaping the NFT space, spearheading the launch
of over 200 projects within a single year for the first Binance
Labs-backed NFT marketplace. Her core expertise spans
blockchain investments, fund structuring, and governance
frameworks.
Beyond Klumi, Lumeste contributes to the broader startup
ecosystem as a Startup Reviewer and Evaluation Board Member
for Hub71, a Mubadala-backed accelerator. She has also led
strategic collaborations with notable partners, including CLS
Global to boost digital asset liquidity, and Solana Superteam
UAE to further Web3 adoption across the region.
Kristiina Lumeste’s vision and leadership continue to drive
innovation and support early-stage startups, solidifying her
position as a leading force in advancing the Web3 ecosystem
in the Middle East.
36 \ Apr 2025

30 pioneers in smart home tech
thetechnologyexpress.com
LAURA K. INAMEDINOVA
PRINCIPAL, GATE VENTURES
Laura K. Inamedinova is an award-winning serial entrepreneur,
investor, and keynote speaker with a prominent
presence in the Web3 and blockchain sectors. Since
2016, she has emerged as a thought leader in the
space, sharing her insights through global media platforms
and conferences. With a deep passion for emerging tech-
nologies, Inamedinova continues to influence and inspire
innovation within the blockchain ecosystem.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from Vilnius
University, where she actively contributed to the Physics
Students Association. Her academic grounding in STEM and
cybersecurity laid a strong foundation for her diverse ventures
across technology and investment sectors. Inamedinova’s
unique blend of scientific education and entrepreneurial drive
enables her to bridge complex technologies with strategic
business execution.
A seasoned angel investor, she has backed over 40 promising
projects globally. As a former columnist for Forbes and
The Huffington Post, she has consistently shared expert
perspectives on Web3 trends and innovations. Her speaking
career includes over 156 conferences across more than 25
countries, further solidifying her role as a global voice in the
tech community.
At Gate Ventures, she plays a pivotal role in identifying,
supporting, and scaling Tier-1 blockchain initiatives, driving
forward the firm’s mission to empower startups worldwide.
MANUEL STOTZ
PRESIDENT, TON FOUNDATION
Manuel Stotz, the newly appointed President of the
TON Foundation, is set to steer the organisation into
a transformative phase of growth and innovation. A
seasoned expert in finance and blockchain, Stotz
has been instrumental in shaping TON’s strategic vision since
its inception as a board member in Switzerland. His leadership
marks a pivotal moment as the foundation intensifies efforts
to expand its presence in the United States—one of the most
influential markets for blockchain technology.
Stotz is the founder of Kingsway Capital, a London-based
investment firm managing billions in assets for U.S. institutional
investors. His firm has supported more than 50 blockchain
companies, including prominent names such as Animoca
Brands and Blockchain.com. This track record showcases his
commitment to advancing blockchain as a tool for financial
inclusion in emerging markets. With a robust understanding
of regulatory dynamics and a strong global network, he is
well-equipped to guide TON through the complex U.S. crypto
landscape.
Under his leadership, the TON Foundation will leverage
the United States’ increasingly supportive stance on crypto
to boost adoption of its blockchain. Seamlessly integrated
with Telegram—which boasts over 950 million monthly active
users—TON is redefining Web3 accessibility. Stotz’s vision
strengthens TON’s mission to bridge Web2 and Web3, enabling
global digital empowerment.
Apr 2025 / 37

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
MARK PAUL
CO-FOUNDER & CTO, ITHEUM
Mark Paul is the Co-Founder and Chief Technology
Officer (CTO) of Itheum, a trailblazing Web3 data
brokerage platform focused on giving individuals
control over their personal data. With over two
decades of experience in large-scale software development,
Mark has worked across diverse industries including media,
healthcare, and blockchain, combining deep technical expertise
with strategic leadership. At Itheum, he leads the
company’s technological vision, building decentralised infrastructure
that enables secure, transparent, and monetisable
data exchanges.
Before founding Itheum, Mark held key roles such as Head
Developer at carsales.com.au and Senior Developer at ninemsn,
where he led high-performing teams in delivering scalable
digital platforms. He also served as IPTV Front-End Engineer
at Fetch TV and worked on digital transformation projects as
a contractor for Deloitte Digital. These roles helped him hone
his expertise in user-centric design and enterprise-grade
software systems.
Mark holds a Higher National Diploma from the Asia Pacific
University of Technology and Innovation and a Bachelor’s
degree in Computer Science from Monash University. He
is also certified as a Microsoft Professional and AWS Solutions
Architect. Through Itheum, Mark Paul is redefining how
personal data is managed and exchanged in the Web3 era,
advocating for a more equitable data economy.
MARWAN AL ZAROUNI
CEO, DUBAI BLOCKCHAIN CENTER (DBCC)
Marwan Al Zarouni is a leading force in blockchain
and emerging technologies, serving as CEO of
the Dubai Blockchain Center (DBCC). Established
in May 2018 under the Area 2071 initiative, DBCC
plays a pivotal role in nurturing a comprehensive blockchain
ecosystem. The centre supports startups, delivers educational
programmes, and organises events aimed at driving
blockchain adoption across various industries in the UAE.
Alongside his work at DBCC, Al Zarouni holds a strategic
government role as CEO of Artificial Intelligence at the Dubai
Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). In this capacity,
he spearheads efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into
public services, enriching both resident and tourist experiences.
His role supports Dubai’s ‘Universal Blueprint for
Artificial Intelligence,’ which aspires to establish the city as
a global AI leader.
Al Zarouni is also a founding member of the Dubai Electronic
Security Center (DESC) and the Artificial Intelligence
Ethical Committee, demonstrating his ongoing commitment
to cybersecurity and the ethical governance of AI technol-
ogies in the region.
With over 20 years of experience spanning information
security, digital forensics, AI, and blockchain, Al Zarouni has
made enduring contributions to Dubai’s digital transformation.
His leadership at DBCC continues to shape the future
of technological innovation in the region.
38 \ Apr 2025

30 pioneers in smart home tech
thetechnologyexpress.com
MATTHEW WHITE
CEO, VARA
Matthew White is the dynamic CEO of VARA, the
Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority in the UAE. He
leads the organisation in developing a comprehensive
and innovative regulatory framework for
digital assets that supports industry growth while protecting
investor interests. White’s extensive background in finance
and technology informs his pragmatic approach to overseeing
digital asset regulation in a rapidly evolving landscape. He
consistently inspires trust across stakeholders.
Under White’s leadership, VARA has introduced pioneering
reforms that balance innovation with regulatory rigour. He has
established close collaboration with industry leaders, financial
institutions, and international regulators to promote transparency
and accountability. His initiatives include developing
clear guidelines for digital asset trading and ensuring robust
compliance measures, which have positioned the UAE as a
global hub for secure and forward-thinking digital finance
solutions. Driving further industry advancement.
White remains committed to continuous improvement and
modernisation of digital asset regulation. His forward-looking
policies have attracted international attention and investment,
reinforcing the UAE’s reputation as a leader in financial innovation.
By championing responsible regulation and fostering
an environment conducive to technological growth, he
ensures that VARA remains at the forefront of global digital
finance transformation.
MATTHIAS MENDE
CEO, BONUZ
Matthias Mende is the innovative CEO of Bonuz, a
leading digital technology firm based in the UAE
that specialises in pioneering blockchain and
fintech solutions. With a deep understanding of
emerging technologies and market trends, he has driven the
company’s transformation into a dynamic force in the digital
economy. His visionary leadership and strategic focus have
enabled Bonuz to develop cutting-edge products and secure
influential partnerships across various sectors.
Under his guidance, Bonuz has rapidly expanded its footprint
in the competitive digital landscape by investing in research
and fostering innovation. Mende has implemented robust
operational frameworks that ensure product quality and
regulatory compliance while promoting agility and customer-centric
solutions. His commitment to sustainable growth
and continuous improvement has not only boosted investor
confidence but also positioned the company as a trusted
leader in technological advancements.
Mende’s forward-thinking approach and relentless pursuit of
excellence continue to inspire both his team and the industry
at large. His strategic initiatives are driving meaningful change,
enabling Bonuz to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.
With a clear vision for the future, he remains dedicated to
delivering innovative solutions that empower businesses and
foster digital transformation. His leadership ensures enduring
success and industry progress.
Apr 2025 / 39

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
MATTI ZINDER
CO-FOUNDER & PRESIDENT,
BEDU
Matti Zinder is the Co-Founder and President of
BEDU, a Dubai-based company specializing in Web3
technologies and metaverse solutions. With over
30 years of experience in the high-tech industry,
Zinder has established himself as a successful serial
entrepreneur and investor. Throughout his career, he has
founded multiple high-tech companies and business groups,
demonstrating a strong commitment to technology-driven
business success.
In addition to his role at BEDU, Zinder is the founder and
chairman of an early-stage venture capital fund. He also serves
as chairman for several high-tech businesses across the
digital media and cybersecurity sectors, reflecting his broad
expertise and leadership within the technology industry.
Zinder’s academic credentials include studies at The Hebrew
University and Harvard Business School, providing him with
a global perspective that he brings to his business ventures.
At BEDU, Zinder oversees two primary business verticals:
BEDU Labs and BEDU World. BEDU Labs functions as an
“NFT factory,” offering comprehensive solutions for clients
interested in exploring the potential of the Web3 arena. Services
include planning, creation, deployment, and promotion
of Web3 and NFT projects, as well as coaching digital
creators on safeguarding their intellectual property. BEDU
World represents the company’s vision for creating a future
interconnected ecosystem, the Metaverse.
MICHAEL CHAN
FOUNDER & CEO, ZAND BANK
Michael Chan is the visionary CEO and Founder of
Zand Bank, a groundbreaking digital bank in the
UAE that is reshaping the financial services landscape.
With extensive experience in banking and
technology, he has established Zand Bank as an innovative
institution dedicated to delivering seamless and secure digital
financial solutions. His strategic leadership and commitment
to customer-centric approaches have set the stage for transformative
growth in a rapidly evolving market.
Under Chan’s guidance, Zand Bank has embraced cutting-edge
technologies, including blockchain and AI, to
streamline operations and enhance customer experience.
He has spearheaded initiatives that integrate robust security
protocols with agile digital platforms, ensuring that the bank
remains at the forefront of fintech innovation. His efforts
have significantly improved service delivery while driving
operational efficiency.
Chan’s forward-thinking vision and dedication to excellence
have earned him recognition as a pioneer in digital banking.
He continues to drive strategic collaborations and technolog-
ical advancements that propel the bank towards sustainable
success. His leadership not only inspires confidence among
investors and customers but also sets a new benchmark for
digital financial institutions in the region. Through continuous
innovation and strategic focus, Michael Chan is redefining
banking for the modern era. His passion drives progress.
40 \ Apr 2025

30 pioneers in smart home tech
thetechnologyexpress.com
MO ALI YUSUF
CEO, FUZE
Mo Ali Yusuf is the co-founder and CEO of Fuze, a
pioneering digital assets infrastructure platform
based in the United Arab Emirates. Established in
December 2022, Fuze assists financial service
providers in strategizing, organizing, and implementing digital
asset infrastructures, enabling them to swiftly and securely
launch world-class products.
Under Yusuf’s leadership, Fuze achieved a record-breaking
seed funding of $14 million in the third quarter of 2023, marking
the largest seed investment for a digital assets infrastructure
startup in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
This substantial investment has propelled Fuze’s growth as
it pursues regulatory licensing, strategic hiring, technological
advancements, and geographic expansion across the region.
Prior to founding Fuze, Yusuf held significant positions at
prominent fintech and financial institutions, including Checkout.
com and Visa. His extensive background encompasses roles
at Booz & Company and Emirates NBD, as well as founding
two fintech startups. Notably, during his tenure at Booz &
Company, he advised the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority
(SAMA) on e-commerce and payment system strategies.
In addition to his role at Fuze, Yusuf serves as the Co-Chair
of the MENA Fintech Association’s Digital Assets Working
Group, reflecting his commitment to advancing the fintech
landscape in the region. Yusuf’s vision for Fuze is to build
the future of regulated financial infrastructure in the UAE.
MOHAMMAD RAAFI HOSSAIN
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, FASSET
Mohammad Raafi Hossain is the CEO and co-founder
of Fasset, a digital asset gateway focused on
democratizing access to sustainable investments
through blockchain technology. Fasset aims to
provide seamless investment opportunities in real-world assets
such as infrastructure projects and renewable energy
ventures.
Before founding Fasset in 2019, Hossain served as an
advisor to the United Arab Emirates Prime Minister’s Office,
where he played a key role in initiatives involving the adoption
of emerging technologies across multiple sectors. His
extensive background in policymaking and innovation helped
shape regulatory frameworks that support fintech and digital
assets in the region.
Hossain has also worked with the United Nations in the
MENA region, focusing on sustainability, agriculture, and climate
change. His expertise in these areas aligns with Fasset’s
mission to integrate blockchain technology into sustainable
investment models. Academically, he holds degrees in Environmental
Economics and Sustainable Development from
the University of California, and Harvard University. Under his
leadership, Fasset is accelerating access to digital assets
such as Bitcoin and real-world asset tokens, with a strong
focus on financial inclusion in emerging markets. His vision is
to bridge the gap between traditional finance and blockchain
technology to create a more inclusive global economy.
Apr 2025 / 41

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
MOHAMMED AL-HAKIM
PRESIDENT, CRYPTO.COM
Mohammed Al-Hakim is the President of Crypto.com
in the UAE, where he leads the company’s strategic
expansion and local market integration. With a
robust background in fintech and digital finance,
Al-Hakim has been instrumental in adapting Crypto.com’s
global vision to the unique dynamics of the Middle Eastern
market. His focus on innovation, regulatory compliance, and
customer trust has helped establish Crypto.com as a reliable
platform for digital assets across the region.
Under his leadership, Crypto.com has introduced pioneering
initiatives that cater specifically to the needs of UAE investors,
including localised payment solutions and educational
programmes aimed at increasing digital literacy. His proactive
approach to fostering collaborations with regulatory authorities
has ensured that the platform operates within a secure and
transparent framework, thereby bolstering investor confidence
and driving adoption of cryptocurrencies.
Al-Hakim’s forward-thinking strategies have not only accelerated
Crypto.com’s market presence in the UAE but also
contributed significantly to the broader digital transformation
in the region. His commitment to excellence and sustainable
growth continues to shape the future of digital finance. His
visionary leadership inspires confidence and sets new benchmarks
in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape.
His unwavering resolve and clear strategic vision further
solidify Crypto.com’s prominence in digital finance globally.
MUNAF ALI
BOARD MEMBER, CO-FOUNDER &
GROUP CEO, PHOENIX GROUP
Munaf Ali is a visionary entrepreneur with over 20
years of experience in capital markets and has held
executive roles at Citigroup in both London and
the UAE. In 2017, he co-founded Phoenix Group, a
UAE-based technology conglomerate specialising in blockchain
and cryptocurrency ventures. Under his leadership, Phoenix
Group has transformed into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise,
operating a 765MW crypto mining infrastructure across the
US, Canada, CIS, and the UAE.
Ali has driven several pioneering initiatives, notably a strategic
partnership with Tether to introduce a Dirham-pegged
stablecoin. This innovation is poised to reshape digital finance
in the UAE by enabling seamless local transactions
and encouraging broader Web3 adoption. Ali’s future-focused
approach includes exploring dual listing opportunities, with
a potential NASDAQ listing in 2025, underscoring Phoenix
Group’s global ambitions.
In a strong display of confidence, Ali recently increased
his personal stake by acquiring over 20 million shares. His
commitment to innovation, strategic expansion, and financial
inclusion has cemented Phoenix Group’s leadership in the
blockchain space. Through his guidance, the company is
setting new benchmarks in digital infrastructure, promoting
decentralisation, and supporting the UAE’s evolution into a
global Web3 hub. Munaf Ali’s influence continues to shape
the future of technology and finance in the region.
42 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
OLA DOUDIN
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, BITOASIS
Ola Doudin is the co-founder and CEO of BitOasis, the
Middle East’s first and largest digital asset platform,
established in 2015. Her strategic leadership has
propelled BitOasis into a major force in the region’s
crypto landscape, expanding its services to 15 countries
across the GCC and MENA region. With over 700,000 reg-
istered users and more than $5 billion in trading volume, the
platform offers a secure and accessible space for buying,
selling, and storing cryptocurrencies, helping to accelerate
digital asset adoption in the region.
A key milestone under Doudin’s guidance was achieved in
2023 when BitOasis became the first virtual assets trading
platform to receive an Operational Minimum Viable Product
(MVP) License from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority
(VARA). This pioneering regulatory approval strengthened
user trust and positioned BitOasis as a compliance-focused
innovator in the evolving digital finance space. In December
2024, BitOasis further solidified its leadership by securing a
full Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from VARA,
marking a significant step in its regulatory journey.
Before launching BitOasis, Doudin worked as an IT risk
advisor at Ernst & Young in London and played active roles
in tech entrepreneurship initiatives across the Middle East.
Her vision centers on empowering financial freedom through
secure digital asset solutions while advancing blockchain
innovation and compliance.
PAOLO ARDOINO
CEO, TETHER
Paolo Ardoino, born in 1984 in Cisano sul Neva, Italy,
is a renowned computer scientist and entrepreneur,
currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
of Tether since December 2023. He is also the Chief
Technology Officer (CTO) of Bitfinex, a major digital asset
trading platform, and the Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) of
Holepunch.
Ardoino’s fascination with coding began at age eight, which
led him to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science
from the University of Genoa. Early in his career, he worked
on cybersecurity and cryptography projects tailored for military-grade
applications. In 2013, he founded Fincluster, a
technology firm offering cloud-based financial tools for institutions
and fund managers in London, Milan, and Lugano.
His journey with Bitfinex started in 2014 as a software
engineer. By 2016, he had risen to CTO, where he played a
pivotal role in enhancing backend architecture, optimizing
the trading engine, and ensuring scalability and resilience of
the platform. Ardoino joined Tether in 2017 as CTO, where he
led the technical strategy that scaled USDT into the world’s
largest U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin by market cap.
In December 2023, he was appointed CEO of Tether, succeeding
Jean-Louis van der Velde. Under his leadership,
Tether has invested billions in sustainable energy projects and
artificial intelligence infrastructure while supporting initiatives
like El Salvador’s Bitcoin adoption program.
Apr 2025 / 43

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
PREETAM RAO
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, QUILLAUDITS
Preetam Rao is the Co-Founder and CEO of QuillAudits,
a leading Web3 security firm focused on auditing
smart contracts and ensuring the safety of blockchain
ecosystems. He holds a Bachelor of Technology in
Computer Science from Kurukshetra University and refined
his entrepreneurial skills through an incubation programme
at IIM Udaipur in 2020.
In 2018, Rao co-founded QuillAudits in Dubai with a mission
to strengthen trust in decentralised platforms. Under his
strategic leadership, the firm has audited over 1,000 blockchain
projects, safeguarding nearly USD 30 billion in digital
assets and reviewing close to one million lines of code. His
deep understanding of Web3 infrastructure has positioned
QuillAudits as a trusted name in blockchain security.
Rao actively contributes to the growth of the blockchain
community by mentoring emerging startups via platforms
like Graviton and Brinc. As a recognised speaker at global
events such as Token2049, he advocates for the adoption
of rigorous security measures in Web3 development.
In 2023, he expanded his impact by launching QuillAcademy,
a dedicated platform to train developers in secure smart
contract practices, and established the Quill Red Team for
high-level security assessments.
Through innovation, leadership, and mentorship, Rao continues
to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of decentralised
technologies and fostering a secure blockchain ecosystem.
RAJ GOKAL
CO - FOUNDER & COO,
SOLANA LABS
Raj Gokal is the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer
(COO) of Solana Labs, a high-performance blockchain
platform renowned for its speed and low transaction
fees. At Solana Labs, Gokal oversees daily operations,
product development, and financial strategies, contributing
significantly to the platform’s rapid growth and adoption.
Gokal’s academic foundation is in economics and finance,
having earned a Bachelor of Science degree from The Wharton
School at the University of Pennsylvania. His early career
includes roles at General Catalyst Partners, where he
focused on investments in consumer internet and software
sectors. He later co-founded Sano, a company specializing
in wearable health monitoring devices, which secured over
$20 million in funding.
Transitioning from healthcare to blockchain technology,
Gokal co-founded Solana Labs in 2017 alongside Anatoly
Yakovenko. Their collaboration aimed to address scalability
issues in existing blockchain networks, resulting in the creation
of Solana, a platform capable of processing thousands
of transactions per second. Beyond his operational role,
Gokal actively supports emerging projects within the Solana
ecosystem, investing in initiatives such as Drift Protocol
and Tensor.
Gokal’s multifaceted expertise and leadership have been
instrumental in positioning Solana as a leading blockchain
platform in the Web3 landscape.
44 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
RICHARD TENG
CEO, BINANCE EXCHANGE
Richard Teng is the CEO of Binance Exchange in the
UAE, leading one of the world’s most influential digital
asset platforms. With extensive experience in fintech
and global digital markets, he has been pivotal in
driving Binance’s strategic expansion and regulatory innovation
in the region. His leadership has not only enhanced
user experience but also strengthened investor confidence
through robust security measures and transparent practices.
Under Teng’s direction, Binance Exchange has embraced
advanced technologies to support seamless digital transactions
and broaden its suite of financial services. His initiatives
have enabled the company to navigate complex regulatory
landscapes while fostering innovation in blockchain technology.
Teng’s focus on collaboration with local authorities
has helped build a strong framework for sustainable growth
in digital finance.
A champion of financial inclusion, Teng has implemented
strategic policies that empower both individual investors and
institutional clients. His forward-thinking vision continues to
position Binance Exchange at the forefront of the cryptocurrency
revolution in the UAE, driving progress and industry
standards. His commitment to excellence and prudent risk
management ensures that the platform remains a leader in the
dynamic digital asset market. His innovative strategies and
steadfast vision have further cemented Binance Exchange
as a global fintech trailblazer.
SAAD BACHIR AL NAJA
CEO, PIP WORLD
Saad Bachir Al Naja is the Founder and Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) of PiP World, a pioneering Web3 gaming
and educational technology (EdTech) ecosystem.
Under his leadership, PiP World secured $10 million in
seed funding from Exinity, a global fintech firm, to advance its
mission of transforming financial education into an engaging,
gamified experience accessible to users worldwide.
Al Naja’s vision for PiP World stems from his own experiences
as a teenager attempting to learn trading. He recognized the
lack of financial education in traditional schooling and aimed
to demystify financial management through gamification.
Before founding PiP World, Al Naja had a distinguished career
in the blockchain and financial sectors. A former mathematical
Olympiad, he was introduced to blockchain technology in
2012 and began mining Bitcoin in his university dorm room.
His early involvement in cryptocurrency was documented by
the BBC. He later joined Kraken in 2017 as an early employee,
contributing to the development of world-class crypto
products and scaling the business from 20 employees to a
significantly larger team.
Through PiP World, Al Naja continues to focus on democratizing
financial education, particularly in emerging markets
where financial tools and knowledge are scarce. His innovative
approach combines AI-driven trader agents, blockchain-based
ownership, and gamified market experiences to empower
individuals with crucial financial skills in today’s economy.
Apr 2025 / 45

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
SAMEER AL ANSARI
CEO, RAK DIGITAL ASSETS OASIS (RAK DAO)
Sameer Al Ansari is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
of RAK Digital Assets Oasis, a pioneering digital asset
platform in the United Arab Emirates. Under his visionary
leadership, the company has rapidly emerged as a
key player in the region’s digital finance landscape. Drawing
on a wealth of experience in finance and technology,
Al Ansari has spearheaded initiatives that streamline digital
asset trading while strengthening regulatory compliance and
investor protection.
His strategic focus on integrating advanced blockchain
solutions has enhanced transactional efficiency, security, and
transparency. By introducing innovative payment systems
and robust security protocols, Al Ansari has established a
trusted platform that aligns with the UAE’s broader vision for
digital economic transformation.
Prior to his role at RAK Digital Assets Oasis, Al Ansari held
senior leadership positions in prominent financial institutions,
where he cultivated deep expertise in digital transformation,
asset management, and fintech integration. His ability to
merge traditional financial principles with modern digital tools
has positioned the company as a reliable bridge between
legacy markets and the decentralised economy
Committed to shaping the future of digital assets in the
UAE, Sameer Al Ansari continues to drive innovation, attract
strategic partnerships, and contribute to the development of a
sustainable, secure, and forward-thinking financial ecosystem.
SEYED ALIZADEHFARD
FOUNDER & GENERAL PARTNER,
CYPHER CAPITAL
Seyed Alizadehfard is the visionary founder and driving
force behind Cypher Capital, a leading venture capital
firm based in the UAE that specialises in blockchain
and cryptocurrency innovation. With a decade-long
career in digital finance and technology investments, he has
been instrumental in shaping the firm’s strategic direction
and fostering disruptive innovation across the blockchain
ecosystem.
Under his leadership, Cypher Capital has launched a substantial
$100 million seed fund dedicated to nurturing emerging
digital asset and blockchain projects, thereby empowering
startups and established companies to explore new frontiers
in technology.
Alizadehfard’s strategic approach to investment has seen the
firm secure significant positions in several pioneering ventures.
His guidance played a key role in leading early-stage funding
rounds for projects that are revolutionising digital finance,
including a decentralised lending platform and an AI-driven
Web3 metaverse project. His commitment to excellence and
focus on sustainable growth have not only transformed Cy-
pher Capital into a catalyst for technological advancement
but also positioned the firm as a prominent player within the
rapidly evolving digital economy in the MENA region. His forward-thinking
vision continues to drive innovation, ensuring
that Cypher Capital remains at the forefront of blockchain
transformation and investment excellence.
46 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
SHEIKH MUHAMMAD NOMAN
FOUNDER & CEO, PEGASUS CAPITAL
Sheikh Muhammad Noman is a seasoned financial engineer
and international business development expert
with over 18 years of experience in the financial
sector. His expertise spans portfolio management,
green energy, digital assets, and invoice financing, having
managed portfolios valued at more than $1.85 billion. He is
renowned for his commitment to sustainable investment and
environmental stewardship.
As the Founder and CEO of Pegasus Capital Investments,
Sheikh Noman leads a global investment firm offering tailored
solutions in green energy, artificial intelligence, blockchain,
and tokenisation of real-world assets. His strategic leadership
has helped the firm develop innovative, sector-specific
investment strategies designed to drive long-term growth
and value creation.
Outside his role, Sheikh Noman is an active voice in the
global financial community. He serves as an investment mentor,
certified life coach, and international motivational speaker.
Notably, he participated as a panelist at the SuperReturn
Middle East conference, sharing insights on the growth of
first-time funds in the MENA region.
He is also recognised as an intellectual property expert
and social educator, bringing a varied perspective to financial
strategy and development. Through his vision and expertise,
Sheikh Noman continues to contribute to sustainable economic
progress while empowering businesses across borders.
SLAVIK BARANOV
CEO, STON.FI
Slavik Baranov is the Founder and CEO of STON.fi, a
decentralized exchange (DEX) built on The Open Network
(TON) blockchain. Under his leadership, STON.fi
has emerged as one of the most active platforms in
the TON ecosystem, facilitating over USD 5 billion in trading
volume and executing more than 20 million transactions.
Baranov’s vision focuses on creating a seamless, scalable,
and user-friendly DeFi experience, positioning STON.fi as
a central pillar of TON’s decentralized finance landscape.
In April 2025, Baranov spearheaded the launch of Omniston,
a decentralized liquidity aggregation protocol aimed at
unifying liquidity across the TON DeFi ecosystem. This protocol
significantly reduces developer integration time from
several weeks to under a week and cuts ongoing maintenance
costs by up to 70%. The initiative highlights Baranov’s drive
to innovate and simplify DeFi infrastructure. Omniston also
supports proprietary liquidity from market makers and plans to
introduce cross-chain swaps by Q2 2025, further expanding
TON’s interoperability.
His commitment to user security is evident in STON.fi’s
Impermanent Loss Protection feature, offering a safety net
to liquidity providers and building trust within the community.
Baranov also emphasizes accessibility, with STON.fi integrating
directly with Telegram wallets to reach up to 1 billion users
globally. Baranov blends technical prowess with strategic
insight, paired with his forward-thinking leadership.
Apr 2025 / 47

Top 40 Web3 Trailblazers in the UAE 2025
TALAL TABBAA
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, COINMENA
Talal Tabbaa is the visionary CEO and Co-Founder of
CoinMENA, a leading digital asset platform based in
the UAE. With a strong background in finance and
technology, he has been pivotal in shaping the digital
currency landscape in the region. His innovative approach
has driven the evolution of CoinMENA into a trusted platform
that bridges traditional finance with the emerging world of
cryptocurrencies.
Under Tabbaa’s dynamic leadership, CoinMENA has implemented
robust regulatory frameworks and cutting-edge
technology to ensure secure and seamless transactions.
His strategic initiatives have expanded the platform’s services,
catering to a diverse client base. He has championed
collaborations with regional regulators and global partners,
reinforcing the platform’s reputation for transparency.
Through his forward-thinking vision, Talal Tabbaa continues
to inspire confidence among investors and industry
stakeholders. His commitment to excellence and responsible
innovation has positioned CoinMENA as a catalyst for digital
transformation in the UAE’s financial sector. His strategic
foresight and dedication to customer trust underline the
platform’s ongoing success and its significant contribution
to the future of digital finance.
His relentless pursuit of innovation, combined with his
strategic acumen, continues to inspire a new generation of
digital finance leaders and passionate enthusiasts.
VIGEN BADALYAN
CO-FOUNDER, FASTEX
Vigen Badalyan, the co-founder of Fastex, is a visionary
leader transforming how individuals and businesses
engage with blockchain technology. With over two
decades of experience in technology and entrepreneurship,
he has consistently bridged the gap between
traditional industries and next-generation digital innovations.
Under his leadership, Fastex has emerged as a comprehensive
Web3 ecosystem, offering a suite of products including
FastToken (FTN), an NFT marketplace (ftNFT), and the
Fastex Verse metaverse platform. These solutions integrate
decentralized applications within immersive 3D environments,
redefining user interaction in the digital economy.
Badalyan’s ambition for Fastex goes beyond innovation;
he envisions creating inclusive and secure platforms that
empower users worldwide. His commitment to regulatory
compliance has earned Fastex approvals in critical jurisdictions,
including Dubai and the United States, further legitimising the
platform’s operations. FTN, Fastex’s native token, powers the
Bahamut blockchain and supports seamless, decentralized
transactions across the broader SoftConstruct ecosystem.
In recognition of his groundbreaking contributions, Badalyan
was honoured as ‘Leader of the Year’ at SiGMA Europe 2024,
highlighting his efforts in integrating Web3 technology with
gaming and crypto industries. Through Fastex, Vigen Badalyan
continues to pioneer advancements that place blockchain
innovation at the forefront of the digital revolution.
48 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
VINEET BUDKI
MANAGING PARTNER & CEO,
SIGMA CAPITAL
Vineet Budki is the Managing Partner and CEO of
Sigma Capital, a dynamic investment firm based in
the UAE. With a strong background in finance and
strategic investments, he has been instrumental in
shaping the firm’s direction and driving sustainable growth.
His deep expertise in market analysis and risk management
has allowed Sigma Capital to capitalise on emerging opportunities
across various sectors.
Under Budki’s leadership, Sigma Capital has embraced
innovation by integrating advanced financial technologies
and fostering strategic partnerships. His forward-thinking
approach has transformed the firm’s investment portfolio,
ensuring a balanced mix of traditional assets and pioneering
ventures. By actively engaging with industry experts and
entrepreneurs, he has enhanced the firm’s reputation as a
trusted partner in the investment community.
Budki’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement
is reflected in Sigma Capital’s robust performance and
expanding global reach. His strategic vision has not only
strengthened the firm’s market position but also contributed
significantly to the evolution of the investment landscape in
the UAE. Through his determined leadership, Sigma Capital
continues to pave the way for innovative financial solutions
and sustainable economic development.
His dedication and visionary leadership ensure Sigma Capital
remains a beacon of progress in the UAE investment market.
VLAD SVITANKO
CEO, CRYPTORSY
Vlad Svitanko, a Ukrainian entrepreneur, is the founder
and CEO of Cryptorsy, a leading Web3 marketing
studio. He graduated from Kyiv National Economics
University in 2020 and has since distinguished
himself in the Web3 industry. Svitanko’s entrepreneurial
journey includes launching 11 companies, with two achieving
successful exits and one continuing to thrive. This resilience
underscores his ability to navigate the challenges of the
decentralized space.
Cryptorsy specializes in assisting crypto projects with successful
launches, connecting them with target audiences, and
attracting investors. The company offers services such as
content creation, digital advertising, growth marketing, and
marketing consulting. Under Svitanko’s leadership, Cryptorsy
has become a trusted partner for projects aiming to thrive
in the evolving Web3 ecosystem.
Svitanko emphasizes the importance of community in Web3
marketing, advocating for a “tribe methodology” that fosters
commonality, rituals, identity, and belonging among community
members. He predicts a future in Web3 marketing
characterized by professionalism, data-driven strategies,
and a deeper understanding of user behavior.
Beyond Cryptorsy, Svitanko serves as the Marketing Director
at Landshare LLC and the CMO at Stobox. His multifaceted
roles demonstrate his commitment to advancing the Web3
industry through innovative marketing strategies.
Apr 2025 / 49

Infrastructure
DIGITAL TWINS
PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS IN
ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE
Digital twins and predictive analytics are revolutionising the
UAE’s energy sector by providing real-time insights and
enhancing operational efficiency. As the nation accelerates
its digital transformation, these technologies are becoming
essential for optimising infrastructure management,
reducing downtime, and supporting sustainable energy
goals. This article explores how the UAE is leveraging digital
twins and AI-driven analytics to shape its energy future.
Digital twin technology and predictive
analytics are transforming the
UAE’s energy sector by enhancing
infrastructure management and operational
efficiency. These technologies
create virtual replicas of physical assets,
providing real-time insights for
predictive maintenance and proactive
decision-making. By analysing vast data
sets, energy operators can optimise
performance, reduce downtime, and
improve resource management. This
advancement supports the UAE’s commitment
to sustainability and innovation,
aligning with national goals like the UAE
Energy Strategy 2050. As the country
continues to embrace digital solutions,
digital twins and predictive analytics will
play a crucial role in ensuring a resilient
and future-ready energy infrastructure.
50 \ Apr 2025

History of Adoption of Digital Twins
in the UAE
The UAE is actively adopting digital twin
technology to enhance its energy infrastructure.
In early 2024, the Ministry of
Energy and Infrastructure introduced the
Big Data Ecosystem and Digital Twin Platform.
This innovative platform provides
real-time insights on urban sustainability
and livability using 3D models, supporting
data-driven decision-making for resource
optimisation.
Digital twins are virtual models of
physical assets, systems, or processes
that integrate data from sensors and
other sources. Combined with predictive
analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and
machine learning, they simulate real-world
scenarios to monitor performance, detect
inefficiencies, and predict maintenance
needs. In the UAE’s energy sector, digital
twins replicate critical infrastructure
like power plants, pipelines, and grids,
allowing operators to optimise operations
and reduce downtime.
Predictive analytics further enhances
these capabilities by analysing historical
and real-time data to forecast potential
equipment failures. This proactive approach
enables predictive maintenance,
minimises unexpected disruptions, and
extends the lifespan of infrastructure.
With the UAE’s focus on digital transformation,
integrating digital twins and
predictive analytics reflects its commitment
to innovation and sustainable
energy management. This technology
is set to play a pivotal role in advancing
energy resilience and supporting the
country’s long-term economic and environmental
objectives.
Why It Matters: Implications for UAE
Businesses and Investments
The adoption of digital twins and predictive
analytics presents significant benefits
for UAE businesses and investors:
1. Enhanced Operational Efficiency: Real-time
monitoring and predictive maintenance
reduce downtime and extend
the lifespan of assets. For instance, in
the oil and gas industry, digital twins can
simulate the performance of equipment
under various conditions, allowing for
proactive maintenance and operational
adjustments.
2. Cost Reduction: By predicting equipment
failures and optimising maintenance
schedules, companies can avoid costly
unplanned outages and repairs. This
proactive approach leads to substantial
cost savings over time.
3. Sustainability Goals: Digital twins contribute
to energy efficiency and sustainability
by enabling precise control over
energy consumption and facilitating the
integration of renewable energy sources.
4. Investment Attraction: Companies
leveraging advanced technologies signal
innovation and forward-thinking strategies,
attracting investors interested in
sustainable and technologically advanced
ventures.
Strategies for Actionable Insights and
Predictions
To fully harness the potential of digital
twins and predictive analytics, the
UAE’s energy sector can consider the
Digital twinning is the
latest technology that
creates an accurate
digital model of assets,
operational facilities,
and service facilities in
a way that allows the
transfer of live data and
information to simulate
behavior and monitor
operations.”
H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei,
UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure
thetechnologyexpress.com
following strategies:
1. Expand Digital Twin Applications:
Beyond current implementations, digital
twins can be applied to various aspects
of energy infrastructure, including renewable
energy sources like solar and
wind farms. By simulating these assets,
operators can optimise performance and
maintenance.
2. Invest in Workforce Development:
Training professionals to operate and
interpret digital twin systems is crucial.
Educational institutions and companies
should collaborate to develop specialised
programmes that equip the workforce
with necessary skills.
3. Foster Public-Private Partnerships:
Collaboration between government entities
and private companies can accelerate
the adoption of these technologies.
Joint ventures can lead to shared
knowledge, resources, and reduced
implementation risks.
4. Enhance Data Security Measures:
As digital twins rely on vast amounts
of data, ensuring cybersecurity is paramount.
Implementing robust data protection
protocols will safeguard against
potential threats and build trust among
stakeholders.
5. Continuous Research and Development:
Investing in R&D will drive
innovation in digital twin technology,
leading to more sophisticated models
and applications. This commitment to
advancement will keep the UAE at the
forefront of technological adoption in
the energy sector.
Pioneering a Sustainable Energy Future
The UAE’s energy infrastructure is undergoing
a significant transformation with
the integration of digital twin technology
and predictive analytics. These advancements
enhance operational efficiency,
promote sustainability, and drive economic
growth. By adopting digital twins, the
nation can optimise energy management,
reduce downtime, and minimise maintenance
costs. Additionally, predictive
analytics enables accurate forecasting
and proactive decision-making. As the
UAE continues its digital transformation,
ongoing investments, cross-sector collaboration,
and supportive policies will
be crucial. With a commitment to innovation,
the UAE is not only strengthening
its energy sector but also setting
an example for the region. Embracing
these technologies ensures resilience
and positions the country as a leader in
sustainable energy management.
Apr 2025 / 51

FINTECH NEWS
UAE Fintech Startup
Flow48 Secures $69M
in Series A Funding
Flow48, a UAE-based fintech company
specializing in SME lending
across emerging markets, has
raised $69 million in a Series A funding
round. The round, comprising both
debt and equity, was led by Breega,
with participation from investors including
212, Speedinvest, Daphni, Endeavor
Catalyst, Evolution Ventures,
and Plus VC. The funds will support
Flow48’s expansion into Saudi Arabia
and enhance its platform’s capabilities.
UAE telco du gets
Central Bank License
to Offer Fintech Services
Emirates Integrated Telecommunications
Company (EITC), operating
as du, has obtained licenses from
the UAE Central Bank to provide digital
financial services. This strategic move
enables du to offer a comprehensive
suite of fintech solutions, including
international money transfers, peer-topeer
transfers, mobile top-ups, and bill
payments. The initiative aligns with the
UAE’s vision to foster fintech innovation
and transition towards a cashless society.
Checkout.com Partners
with Tabby to
Expand BNPL Payments
in UAE and
Saudi
Checkout.com has partnered with
Tabby to integrate buy-nowpay-later
(BNPL) solutions into
its platform for merchants in the UAE
and Saudi Arabia. This collaboration
enables businesses to offer flexible
payment options at checkout, enhancing
customer experience and potentially
increasing sales. The BNPL market in
the Middle East has seen rapid growth,
with adoption rates reaching up to 62%
over the past 12 months.
UAE Fintech Sector
Contributes 8.7% to
GDP, Aims for 12% by
2031
The United Arab Emirates’ financial
technology (fintech) sector
currently contributes 8.7% to the
nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The government aims to increase this
contribution to approximately 12% by
2031, underscoring fintech’s role in
sustainable economic growth. This
initiative aligns with broader efforts to
diversify the economy and establish
the UAE as a global hub for innovation.
NymCard Raises $33M Series B to Expand
MENA Fintech
NymCard, a UAE-based embedded
finance platform operating
across over 10 countries in the
MENA region, has secured $33 million
in a Series B funding round led
by QED Investors. This investment
marks QED’s first major foray into the
Gulf region. Existing investors such
as Lunate, Dubai Future District Fund,
Mashreq Bank, Knollwood, Reciprocal,
FJLabs, Shorooq, and Endeavor also
participated, alongside new investor
Oraseya Capital. The funds aim to enhance
NymCard’s payment infrastructure,
supporting banks, enterprises,
fintechs, and telecom providers.
52 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
UAE-founded CredibleX joins Mastercard to
empower SMEs via first-of-kind product utilisation
in region
Mastercard has partnered with
UAE-founded CredibleX to
integrate its Small Business
Credit Analytics (SBCA) into CredibleX’s
embedded financing platform,
marking the first utilization of this
product in the region. This collaboration
provides CredibleX with enhanced
data-driven insights based on an-
onymized and aggregated transaction
data, empowering small and medium
enterprises (SMEs) by enhancing and
simplifying their access to financing.
The integration aims to improve lending
decisions, reduce underwriting
time, and enhance risk management,
thereby driving financial inclusion for
SMEs across the UAE.
Afterpay Merges With
CashApp in Strategic
Move for Enhanced
Financial Services
Block, Inc. (formerly Square) completed
its $29 billion acquisition
of Afterpay, integrating its buynow-pay-later
services into Block’s
Cash App ecosystem. This strategic
move enhances Cash App’s offerings,
allowing users to manage installment
payments directly within the app and
expanding Afterpay’s reach to millions
of Cash App customers.
Oman-based Thawani
Ranked Among Top 50
Fintech Firms in ME
Thawani Technologies, an Omani
fintech company, has been recognized
for the second consecutive
year in Forbes Middle East’s Top
50 Fintech Companies list, advancing
from 40th place in 2024 to 36th in
2025. This progression underscores
Thawani’s commitment to innovative
financial solutions and reflects the
growth of Oman’s fintech sector. The
company’s achievements align with
Oman Vision 2040, aiming to enhance
the nation’s digital economy.
Emirates NBD Concludes
Third Cohort of
National Digital Incubator
Emirates NBD has successfully
concluded the third cohort of its
National Digital Talent Incubator
(NDTI) program, reinforcing Dubai’s
status as a global FinTech hub. Participants
engaged in international networking,
including interactions with
Emirates NBD’s Egypt team, venture
capitalists, and prominent startups,
gaining insights into regional markets
and expansion opportunities. The
program culminated with startups presenting
their progress and business
plans to Emirates NBD executives
and industry leaders, receiving pivotal
feedback for their strategic direction.
HyperPay unveils
HyperTap for secure
contactless payments
via smartphones in
UAE
HyperPay has introduced Hyper-
Tap, a ‘Tap on Phone’ solution
enabling UAE businesses to accept
secure contactless payments
using smartphones as point-of-sale
terminals without additional hardware.
This innovation offers cost-effective,
efficient transactions, particularly
benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises.
Certified by the PCI Security
Standards Council, HyperTap ensures
high security standards, aligning with
the UAE’s digital transformation goals.
Apr 2025 / 53

INVESTMENT NEWS
Nokia & du Partner to Drive 6G Research and
Innovation in the UAE
Nokia and du, a leading UAE telecom
provider, have signed a
Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) to collaborate on 6G technology
research. This partnership aims
to advance the UAE’s digital transformation
agenda by exploring 6G
use cases, applications, and network
innovations. Joint efforts will include
field trials, proof-of-concept demonstrations,
and research on key enablers
of 6G technology. Focus areas
encompass AI-native network architectures,
ultra-high-speed connectivity,
enhanced security measures, and
sustainable network designs.
Google Expands AI
Investment with
$750M Boost for
Anthropic in 2025
In 2025, Google plans to invest an
additional $750 million in AI startup
Anthropic through convertible debt,
increasing its total investment to over
$3 billion. Despite holding a 14% stake,
Google lacks voting rights or board
representation, ensuring Anthropic’s
operational independence. This significant
funding underscores Google’s
commitment to advancing artificial
intelligence and supporting innovative
AI research.
Google Inks its Biggest
Acquisition with
$32B Deal for Cloud
Security Firm Wiz
Google has agreed to acquire
cloud security firm Wiz for $32
billion in an all-cash transaction,
marking its largest acquisition to date.
Founded in 2020, Wiz rapidly emerged
as a leader in cloud security, serving
major Fortune 100 clients. This strategic
move aims to bolster Google’s
cloud computing division amid growing
demand for robust security solutions
in the AI era. The acquisition is
subject to regulatory approval.
Dubai-based Yango
Group Launches $20M
Fund to Back Regional
Tech Startups
Yango Group, a Dubai-based global
technology company, has launched
Yango Ventures, a $20 million corporate
venture fund targeting early-stage
startups in Latin America, Sub-Saharan
Africa, and the Middle East, North Africa,
and Pakistan (MENAP) regions. Focusing
on sectors like Online-to-Offline (O2O),
B2B SaaS, and fintech, the fund aims
to foster local innovation by providing
capital and leveraging Yango’s extensive
experience and network.
UK Regulator
Approves Microsoft’s
$13 Billion Investment
in OpenAI
The UK’s Competition and Markets
Authority (CMA) has approved
Microsoft’s $13 billion investment
in OpenAI, concluding a 14-month investigation.
The CMA determined that,
despite Microsoft’s significant influence,
it does not exercise de facto control over
OpenAI, thus no further investigation is
necessary. This decision aligns with the
European Union’s earlier stance, where
antitrust regulators also chose not to
pursue a formal investigation into the
investment.
54 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
The 10-20-70 Rule:
How GCC Businesses
Can Turn Massive
AI Investments into
Long-term Profit
The 10-20-70 rule suggests businesses
allocate 10% of AI budgets to
experiments, 20% to pilot projects,
and 70% to scaling successful initiatives.
GCC companies can maximise ROI by
focusing on scalable AI applications,
ensuring leadership buy-in, and leveraging
regional AI ecosystems. This approach
drives innovation, reduces risk, and turns
AI investments into sustainable profits.
UAE Commits to $1.4 Trillion Investment
Framework in US, White House Says
The United Arab Emirates has
committed to a 10-year, $1.4
trillion investment framework in
the United States, following meetings
with President Donald Trump and top
U.S. officials. This plan aims to significantly
enhance the UAE’s investments
in sectors such as AI infrastructure,
semiconductors, energy, and manu-
facturing. Notable agreements include
a $25 billion initiative in energy infrastructure
and data centers by UAE’s
ADQ, in partnership with Energy Capital
Partners, and an investment by AD-
NOC’s international arm, XRG, in Texas’
NextDecade liquefied natural gas
export facility.
DeepSeek Discloses
545% Theoretical AI
Profit Margin
Chinese artificial intelligence
startup DeepSeek has disclosed
that, under theoretical conditions,
its AI models could achieve a
profit margin of 545%. This figure is
based on a 24-hour analysis of their
V3 and R1 models, where the cost of
leasing GPUs amounted to $87,072,
and potential revenue was estimated
at $562,027. However, DeepSeek
clarifies that actual revenues are substantially
lower due to factors such
as limited monetization of services,
off-peak discounts, and free-to-use
options.
UAE Cabinet Approves
National Investment
Strategy & Health Policy
The UAE Cabinet has approved
the National Investment Strategy
2031, aiming to position the
country as a leading global investment
hub by increasing annual foreign direct
investment inflows from AED 112 billion
in 2023 to AED 240 billion by 2031.
Additionally, the Cabinet endorsed the
National Policy for Combating Health
Risks to enhance healthcare sector
readiness and ensure high health security
standards.
NVIDIA and xAI to join
MGX, BlackRock and
Microsoft’s $30 Billion
AI Infrastructure Partnership
NVIDIA and Elon Musk’s xAI have
joined the AI Infrastructure Partnership
(AIP), a consortium led
by BlackRock, Microsoft, and MGX,
aiming to invest $30 billion in AI infrastructure
projects across the United
States. This collaboration seeks to
develop advanced data centers and
energy facilities to meet the growing
demands of AI applications, reflecting
a significant commitment to enhancing
AI capabilities.
Apr 2025 / 55

INTERNET OF THINGS
CARBON
CAPTURE 2.0:
AI AND IOT IN EMISSIONS
REDUCTION
AI and IoT are revolutionising carbon capture, utilisation,
and storage (CCUS) technologies, accelerating the UAE’s
journey toward a low-carbon future. By enabling real-time
monitoring and predictive insights, these innovations enhance
emissions management and efficiency. This article
explores how the UAE is leveraging AI and IoT to achieve
sustainability goals and drive energy sector transformation.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is
making significant strides in reducing
carbon emissions by integrating
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the
Internet of Things (IoT) into its Carbon
Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS)
initiatives. By leveraging real-time data
from sensors and applying AI algorithms,
these technologies enhance operational
efficiency, optimise carbon capture
processes, and ensure safer storage.
The nation’s ambitious goal to expand
CCUS capacity to 5 million tonnes annually
by 2030 highlights its commitment
to a low-carbon future. With companies
56 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
like ADNOC leading the charge, the UAE
continues to position itself as a pioneer
in sustainable energy innovation, aligning
with global climate objectives.
What’s Happening with Carbon Capture
2.0?
The UAE has been proactive in adopting
advanced technologies to mitigate
carbon emissions. In 2016, the nation
launched the Al Reyadah project, the
Middle East’s first commercial-scale
CCUS facility, capturing up to 800,000
tonnes of CO 2
annually from Emirates
Steel Industries and injecting it into oil
reservoirs for enhanced oil recovery.
Building on this foundation, the UAE aims
to expand its CCUS capacity to 5 million
tonnes per annum (MTPA) by 2030, with
significant contributions from the Abu
Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC),
which plans to capture CO 2
from its gas
plants.
The integration of AI and IoT into
CCUS systems is revolutionising how
carbon emissions are managed. For instance,
AI-driven platforms can reduce
the time required for modelling carbon
storage methods from 100 days to just 24
hours, significantly accelerating project
timelines. IoT devices, equipped with
sensors, provide real-time monitoring
of CO 2
levels, equipment performance,
and storage conditions, enabling swift
responses to any anomalies.
Globally, companies like Halliburton are
leveraging AI to estimate carbon storage
capacity using seismic data, integrating
various data sources to compute
a Relative Storage Index (RSI) through
deep learning algorithms. This approach
enhances the accuracy of storage assessments,
ensuring the safe and efficient
sequestration of CO 2
.
Why It Matters for the UAE Businesses
and Investors?
For UAE businesses and investors,
the integration of AI and IoT into CCUS
presents significant opportunities. The
global push for sustainability is reshaping
markets, with consumers and regulators
favouring environmentally responsible
companies. By adopting advanced CCUS
technologies, UAE businesses can reduce
their carbon footprint, comply with international
environmental standards, and
enhance their global competitiveness.
Investors are increasingly prioritising
Environmental, Social, and Governance
(ESG) criteria. Companies that leverage
AI and IoT for emissions reduction are
more likely to attract investment, as they
demonstrate a commitment to sustainability
and innovation. The UAE’s leadership
in this domain also strengthens
its geopolitical standing, showcasing
its dedication to global climate goals
and its capability to drive technological
advancements in the energy sector.
What’s Next for the UAE’s Carbon Capture
Evolution?
To capitalise on the benefits of AI and
IoT in CCUS, the UAE can adopt several
strategic initiatives:
1. Invest in Research and Development
(R&D): Enhancing R&D efforts can lead to
breakthroughs in carbon capture materials
and techniques. Partnerships between
government agencies, private companies,
and universities will accelerate
innovation.
2. Enhance Data Infrastructure: Establishing
reliable data collection systems
is critical for AI and IoT applications in
CCUS. Secure and accurate data will
improve predictive capabilities, optimising
operational performance.
3. Foster Public-Private Partnerships:
Collaboration between the public and
private sectors can reduce financial risks
and fast-track large-scale CCUS deployment.
Encouraging joint investments will
drive technological progress.
4. Develop Regulatory Frameworks:
Clear and supportive regulations are
necessary to promote carbon capture
adoption. Incentivising sustainable practices
through carbon credits or tax benefits
can further encourage companies
to integrate CCUS.
5. Promote Workforce Development:
Specialised training programs in AI, IoT,
and CCUS technologies will ensure a
skilled workforce. Collaborating with
schools and higher educational institutions
to offer relevant courses will
strengthen the talent pipeline and empower
the future workforce.
By pursuing these actions, the UAE
can lead the region in carbon management
innovations while meeting its climate
commitments and maintaining its
competitive edge in the energy sector.
The UAE aims to build
a robust clean energy
system while reducing
emissions from the oil
and gas sector by 25% by
2030 through investing
in carbon capture, utilization,
and storage technologies,
whose capacity
was increased 10 fold by
2030.”
H.E. Eng. Sharif Al Olama,
UAE’s Undersecretary for Energy and
Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of
Energy and Infrastructure
Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future
The integration of AI, IoT, and CCUS
technologies is revolutionising the UAE’s
energy sector. By leveraging these innovations,
the nation is effectively tackling
carbon emissions while enhancing
operational efficiency. Moving forward,
sustained investments, cross-sector collaborations,
and strong policy support
will be essential. As the UAE advances
its sustainability goals, it sets a global
benchmark for responsible energy management.
With a focus on innovation and
environmental stewardship, the country
is poised to lead in the fight against
climate change.
Apr 2025 / 57

ELECTRIC VEHICLES
POWERING THE
FUTURE:
EV INTEGRATION AND THE
RISE OF VEHICLE-TO-GRID
TECHNOLOGY
The UAE is progressing towards its sustainable energy
goals, with electric vehicles (EVs) and smart grid technologies
serving a crucial role. Integrating EVs through
Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology presents challenges
and opportunities, potentially transforming the regional
energy landscape and reinforcing the nation’s leadership
in the clean energy transition within the GCC.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
region, particularly the UAE, is making
significant progress towards
achieving sustainable energy solutions,
with electric vehicles (EVs) and smart
grid technologies leading the way.
As the nation accelerates its shift to
clean energy, integrating EVs through
Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology offers
both intricate challenges and promising
opportunities.
58 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
This transformation has the potential to
reshape the regional energy landscape
by enhancing grid efficiency, reducing
carbon emissions, and promoting energy
independence. Furthermore, the UAE’s
strategic investments and supportive
policies are paving the way for innovative
energy solutions, establishing the
country as a frontrunner in the transition
to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Current Trends in EV Integration
The UAE stands out as a leader in the
GCC’s EV transformation, with Dubai and
Abu Dhabi championing efforts to expand
EV infrastructure. Dubai’s Green Charger
Initiative highlights this momentum, with
EV ownership skyrocketing from just 14
vehicles in 2015 to over 11,000 by mid-
2023. The emirate aims to have more
than 42,000 electric cars on its roads
by 2030, supported by a robust network
of charging stations. The broader GCC
region is also witnessing rapid growth
in EV infrastructure. The EV charging
infrastructure market, valued at USD
2.04B in 2024, is projected to reach
USD 5.58B by 2030, reflecting a CAGR
of 18.32%. Such growth underscores
the increasing demand for efficient and
scalable EV solutions.
Challenges in EV Integration
Despite this promising outlook, integrating
EVs into existing energy systems
remains challenging. Grid stability remains
a significant concern, as the intermittent
nature of renewable energy sources,
combined with unpredictable EV charging
patterns, can place considerable stress
on grid infrastructure, potentially leading
to instability. Furthermore, while the UAE
is progressing, many GCC countries lack
the regulatory frameworks necessary for
the bidirectional electricity flow required
by V2G technology. Existing monopolies
in power generation and the absence of
electricity buy-back agreements further
complicate the implementation of these
systems, limiting opportunities for both
consumers and businesses to contribute
power back to the grid.
Effective integration also requires advanced
data collection and analytics to
monitor EV usage patterns, grid demand,
and energy storage levels. However,
the region’s limited historical data on EV
usage presents challenges in accurately
forecasting infrastructure needs. As the
UAE and other GCC countries continue
to expand their EV networks, ensuring
that the necessary data systems are in
place will be crucial to maintaining grid
reliability and efficiency.
Opportunities with V2G Technology
Despite these challenges, V2G technology
offers considerable benefits that
could revolutionise energy management
across the UAE. By allowing EVs to act
as distributed energy resources that
supply power back to the grid during
peak demand, this technology can enhance
grid resilience and reduce the
need for additional power generation
facilities. Implementing V2G in the UAE
alone could generate over $100M in
annual benefits by deferring investments
in new generation capacity and lowering
operational costs.
Masdar City in Abu Dhabi serves as a
prime example of how integrating smart
grids and EVs can drive green urban
development, positioning the UAE as a
global leader in sustainable innovation.
Such initiatives are increasingly seen
as a blueprint for future cities, where
intelligent energy management and
green transportation systems work in
harmony to reduce carbon footprints
and enhance energy security.
Implications for UAE Businesses and
Investments
The transition to EVs and smart grids
presents substantial opportunities
for businesses and investors across
the UAE. As EV adoption accelerates,
companies have the chance to position
themselves as key players within
the charging infrastructure ecosystem.
Charge Point Operators (CPOs) and Mobility
Service Providers (MSPs) stand
to benefit from the rising demand for
efficient and well-distributed charging
networks. Investments in smart grid technologies,
including energy management
systems and data analytics, will also play
an essential role in optimising energy
distribution and ensuring grid stability.
Additionally, engaging with policymakers
to establish supportive frameworks
for V2G technology will be critical. Developing
regulations that encourage bidirectional
energy flows and formalise energy
buy-back agreements can create a more
conducive environment for innovation
and investment. With the right policies
in place, the UAE can continue to attract
global investors eager to contribute to
the nation’s clean energy transition.
Future Outlook and Recommendations
To fully capitalise on the potential of EV
integration and V2G technology, establishing
supportive policies must remain
a top priority. Implementing regulatory
frameworks that facilitate bidirectional
electricity flow and creating legal agreements
for energy buy-back mechanisms
will be essential to building a robust ecosystem.
At the same time, expanding
charging infrastructure and upgrading
grid systems will be crucial to handling
higher loads and accommodating V2G
integration.
Improving data management through
enhanced cross-sector collaboration can
significantly boost forecasting accuracy
and grid efficiency. By fostering partnerships
between government bodies,
private enterprises, and research institutions,
the UAE can create a unified
approach to developing smart grid
solutions. Furthermore, educating the
public on the benefits of EVs and V2G
technology will be essential to driving
widespread adoption and encouraging
participation in energy-saving initiatives
As the UAE continues to push the
boundaries of clean energy innovation,
effectively addressing these challenges
and capitalising on opportunities will
be critical to establishing the region as
a global leader in sustainable energy
solutions.
UAE’s commitment to integrating electric
vehicles through V2G technology
demonstrates its forward-thinking approach
to sustainable energy. By addressing
challenges and capitalising on
emerging opportunities, the nation is
positioning itself as a leader in the clean
energy transition within the GCC region.
Continued investment, supportive policies,
and technological advancements
will be crucial in achieving these ambitious
goals. The UAE’s efforts could serve
as a model for other nations aiming to
enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.
As the UAE leads by example, it will
inspire further global collaboration, driving
the transition towards a low-carbon
future and accelerating the adoption of
smart, clean energy solutions worldwide.
This proactive approach will not only
enhance energy management but also
foster greater innovation, ensuring longterm
energy security and environmental
responsibility for future generations.
Apr 2025 / 59

DRIVE TO THE FUTURE
2025 KIA TASMAN
The 2025 Kia Tasman ushers Kia into the heart of the mid‐size pickup arena,
combining bold “Opposites United” styling with versatile performance and
cutting‐edge technology. Launching in the UAE in April 2025, the Tasman is
engineered to excel both on city streets and off‐road trails, appealing to professionals
and adventure seekers alike.
60 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
7.2 s
0–100 km/h
3,500 kg
Towing Capacity
277 HP
Horse Power
The Tasman’s body‐on‐frame
chassis is engineered to withstand
the rigors of both on‐road
commuting and off‐road exploration.
At its core lies a robust ladder‐type
frame that provides exceptional torsional
rigidity, while the double‐wishbone
front suspension and leaf‐spring
rear axle, augmented by Frequency‐Selective
Damping Control and
Hydraulic Rebound Stops, strike a balance
between rugged durability and
refined ride comfort. Whether tackling
rocky desert trails outside Abu Dhabi
or navigating Dubai’s urban streets,
the suspension system adapts seamlessly:
on smooth pavement it soaks
up imperfections with poise, and
when the terrain turns rough, it maintains
composure, keeping the wheels
planted for maximum traction.
Measuring 3,270 mm between the
axles and stretching 5,410 mm from
bumper to bumper, the Tasman projects
a commanding presence. Its
broad 1,930 mm stance and 1,870–
1,920 mm height contribute to a stable
footprint, while the available bed
configurations, Single Decker, Double
Decker, Sports Bar, and Ladder Rack,
ensure that the pickup can be tailored
precisely to its owner’s needs.
From carrying construction materials
to hauling weekend adventure gear,
the Tasman’s bed options offer quick
installation and removal, thanks to
modular mounting points and integrated
tie‐down rails.
Exterior styling underscores Kia’s
“Opposites United” design philosophy,
which fuses contrasting elements
into a cohesive whole. The
assertive tiger‐nose grille is flanked
by vertically stacked LED daytime‐running
lights that impart a distinctive
visual signature at dawn and dusk.
Sculpted fender arches sweep over
the wheels, visually reinforcing the
vehicle’s capability, while subtle character
lines flow from front to rear, enhancing
aerodynamic efficiency. Practical
design cues abound: concealed
storage compartments nestled in the
wheel arches provide easy access to
tools and recovery gear, and the embossed
tailgate not only strengthens
the panel but also serves as a visual
focal point when the bed is loaded.
Step inside and the Tasman reveals a
modern, tech‐forward cabin designed
for both comfort and functionality.
Offered in regular‐cab and crew‐cab
layouts, the interior accommodates
up to five occupants in the latter configuration,
with rear seats that recline
up to 30° for added comfort on long
journeys. The centerpiece of the
dashboard is a seamless triple‐screen
array: a 12.3” digital instrument cluster
provides customizable readouts, a
12.3” infotainment touchscreen houses
navigation, media, and vehicle set-
tings, and a dedicated 5” HVAC display
allows for intuitive climate control
adjustments. Wireless Apple CarPlay
and Android Auto keep smartphones
connected without cables, while dual
wireless charging pads ensure devices
remain powered on the go. A
10‐speaker Harman Kardon premium
audio system fills the cabin with crisp
sound, and thoughtful storage solutions,
such as a 33 L under‐seat compartment,
door‐pocket organizers,
and a folding centre console, keep essentials
within easy reach. Sustainable
trim materials, including recycled plastics
and eco‐friendly fabrics, reinforce
Kia’s commitment to environmental
stewardship.
Safety is comprehensive, with an
advanced ADAS suite that includes
Highway Driving Assist 2—now
equipped with a trailer‐profile function
to optimize stability when towing—Forward
Collision‐Avoidance
Assist with junction turning support,
Blind‐Spot Collision‐Avoidance Assist,
Rear Cross‐Traffic Alert, and Kia’s innovative
Ground View Monitor, which
stitches together multiple camera
feeds to offer a virtual “bird’s‐eye”
perspective of the terrain beneath the
front bumper. Together, these technologies
work in concert to keep occupants
secure and confident, whether
cruising the Sheikh Zayed Road or
venturing into the Hajar Mountains.
Apr 2025 / 61

Quantum Computing
QUANTUM COMPUTING
IN ENERGY SYSTEMS:
FROM FORECASTING TO CLEAN
FUELS
Quantum computing is poised to revolutionise the UAE’s
energy sector by enhancing forecasting accuracy, optimising
grid management, and accelerating clean fuel innovation.
As the country pursues its net-zero goals, leveraging this
advanced technology offers immense potential to drive
sustainable energy solutions. This article explores how
quantum computing is reshaping energy systems, creating
new investment opportunities, and positioning the UAE
as a global clean energy leader.
Quantum computing is emerging
as a transformative force in the
UAE’s energy sector, offering unparalleled
computational capabilities to
solve complex challenges. By processing
vast datasets at unprecedented speeds,
quantum systems are enhancing energy
forecasting accuracy, optimising grid
management, and accelerating clean
fuel innovations. The UAE’s National
Quantum Computing Strategy aims to
integrate quantum technologies into key
sectors, including energy, to drive efficiency
and sustainability. Collaborations
between the UAE entities and global
62 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
quantum leaders are fostering innovation
in energy applications. This technological
shift positions the nation as a leader in
integrating advanced computing for a
cleaner, more resilient energy future.
Revolutionising the Energy Sector by
Embracing Quantum Computing
The UAE has embarked on an ambitious
journey to integrate quantum computing
into its energy infrastructure. The Technology
Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu
Dhabi has initiated the development of
a quantum computer, aiming to provide
quantum computing power as a utility
for key stakeholders, akin to traditional
utilities like electricity and water. This
initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment
to harnessing cutting-edge technologies
to address complex challenges in
energy production, transmission, and
distribution.
In collaboration with international
partners, UAE-based companies are
advancing quantum research. For instance,
ITQAN has partnered with QuEra
to transition quantum computing from
research to real-world applications,
fostering an ecosystem that includes
academia, the private sector, and government
entities. These collaborations aim to
develop solutions for energy efficiency,
grid optimisation, and the integration of
renewable energy sources.
Globally, quantum computing is being
explored to enhance energy forecasting
and grid management. By processing
vast amounts of data with unprecedented
speed, quantum computers can predict
energy demand patterns more accurately,
facilitating the efficient integration of
renewable energy sources and reducing
reliance on fossil fuels. This capability is
crucial for the UAE’s strategy to diversify
its energy mix and promote sustainability.
Why Quantum Computing in Energy Matters
for UAE Businesses and Investors
For the UAE businesses and investors,
the integration of quantum computing
into the energy sector presents significant
opportunities. Enhanced energy
forecasting and grid optimisation can
lead to more efficient operations, cost
savings, and improved reliability of energy
supply. Companies adopting these
technologies may gain a competitive
edge by aligning with global sustainability
trends and meeting increasing regulatory
demands for carbon reduction.
Investors are increasingly prioritising
Environmental, Social, and Governance
(ESG) criteria. Businesses leveraging
quantum computing for energy optimisation
demonstrate a commitment to
innovation and sustainability, making
them more attractive to ESG-focused
investors. Moreover, the potential to
develop advanced energy storage solutions
and cleaner fuels through quantum
computing could open new markets and
revenue streams. This not only supports
the UAE’s clean energy goals but also
strengthens its position as a global leader
in the energy sector.
Additionally, by fostering partnerships
between the government, private sector,
and academia, the UAE is positioning
itself as a pioneer in applying quantum
computing to real-world energy challenges.
These advancements can enhance
operational efficiency, reduce carbon
emissions, and accelerate the integration
of renewable energy sources. As
the technology matures, early adopters
in the UAE’s energy landscape will
be well-positioned to capitalise on the
competitive advantages that quantum
computing offers.
What’s Next in Future Horizons
To fully harness the potential of quantum
computing in the energy sector, the UAE
can consider the following strategies:
1. Invest in Research and Development
(R&D): Allocating resources to R&D can
lead to the discovery of more efficient
energy solutions. Collaborations between
academic institutions, industry players,
and government agencies can foster
innovation.
2. Enhance Data Infrastructure: Developing
robust data collection and processing
systems is crucial. Ensuring data
accuracy and security will facilitate the
effective application of quantum computing
in energy operations.
3. Foster Public-Private Partnerships:
Collaborations between the government
and private sector can accelerate the
deployment of advanced quantum technologies.
Such partnerships can share
risks and rewards, making large-scale
projects more feasible.
4. Develop Regulatory Frameworks: Establishing
clear regulations and incentives
for quantum computing initiatives can
encourage businesses to adopt these
technologies. Policies that support innovation
while ensuring environmental
We will leverage the
enormous capabilities of
quantum computing to
improve energy efficiency
and energy conservation
as well as enhance
Dubai’s infrastructure.”
H.E. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer,
Managing Director and CEO of Dubai
Electricity and Water Authority
safety are essential.
5. Promote Workforce Development:
Training programs to equip the workforce
with skills in quantum computing
technologies will ensure the availability
of qualified professionals to drive these
initiatives
Path Forward for Quantum Integration
The UAE’s commitment to leveraging
quantum computing in its energy sector
highlights its dedication to sustainability
and innovation. By optimising energy systems,
reducing emissions, and improving
grid management, quantum technology
offers transformative potential. Strategic
investments in research, infrastructure,
and cross-sector partnerships will be
crucial to unlocking its full benefits. As
the nation accelerates its clean energy
transition, embracing quantum advancements
will strengthen its global leadership
in the energy landscape while supporting
its long-term environmental goals.
Apr 2025 / 63

Energy Storage
HYDROGEN
INNOVATIONS:
THE FUTURE OF LONG-
DURATION ENERGY STORAGE
Advancements in hydrogen storage technologies are transforming
energy storage by providing efficient, long-term
solutions. Unlike traditional batteries, hydrogen-based systems
can store energy for extended periods with minimal
losses. This innovation plays a crucial role in supporting
the UAE’s clean energy ambitions and the wider GCC region’s
energy transition objectives.
Advancements in hydrogen storage
technologies are revolutionizing
long-duration energy storage, offering
promising solutions to stabilize renewable
energy grids. This is particularly
significant for the United Arab Emirates
(UAE) and the Gulf Cooperation Council
(GCC) region, where integrating renewable
energy sources is a strategic priority.
The UAE aims to become a global leader
in green hydrogen production and export
by leveraging its abundant solar energy
resources and advanced infrastructure.
The region’s first industrial-scale green
hydrogen project was launched by the
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority in
2021. Additionally, GCC countries could
generate as much as US$200 billion in
revenue from green hydrogen by 2050,
with the creation of up to 1 million jobs
64 \ Apr 2025

in the region. These developments
underscore the region’s commitment
to sustainable energy solutions and
economic diversification.
Current Developments in Hydrogen
Storage
Recent advancements in hydrogen
storage technologies have enhanced
the feasibility of using hydrogen as a
medium for large-scale, long-duration
energy storage. Traditional battery systems
often face limitations in energy
density and duration, making them less
suitable for extensive storage needs. In
contrast, hydrogen-based energy storage
systems can store energy for extended
periods without significant losses, effectively
addressing challenges associated
with the intermittent nature of renewable
energy sources.
One notable advancement is the exploration
of underground hydrogen storage
(UHS) in geological formations such as
depleted reservoirs, aquifers, and salt
caverns. These formations offer scalable
and cost-effective options for storing
hydrogen at large volumes, making them
a key enabler in decarbonizing energy
systems.
In the UAE, research has identified
the potential of utilizing salt domes for
large-scale hydrogen storage. A comprehensive
study evaluated the technical,
environmental, and sensitivity aspects
of employing salt domes for hydrogen
storage, aligning with the UAE’s strategic
goals for energy transition and
decarbonization.
Significance for the UAE and GCC Region
Energy Security and Independence:
Hydrogen storage enhances energy
independence by reducing reliance
on imported fuels. By producing and
storing hydrogen locally, regions can
bolster their energy security and resilience.
Hydrogen can be produced using
local renewable energy sources, such
as wind or solar power, to split water
molecules into hydrogen and oxygen gas.
Grid Stability and Flexibility: The intermittent
nature of renewable energy
sources like solar and wind can lead to
grid instability. Hydrogen storage systems
can absorb excess energy during
peak production periods and release it
during times of high demand, thereby
stabilizing the grid and ensuring a reliable
energy supply.
Economic Diversification and Investment
Opportunities: Developing hydro-
gen infrastructure aligns with the region’s
goals of economic diversification. Investments
in hydrogen technologies can
stimulate job creation, foster innovation,
and position the GCC as a leader in the
emerging global hydrogen economy.
Environmental Sustainability: Hydrogen,
especially when produced from renewable
sources, is a clean fuel that emits
only water upon combustion. Its adoption
supports the region’s commitments to
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and
combating climate change.
Future Strategies and Recommendations
Policymakers, regulators, and system
planners should expand their long-term
planning horizons to consider a full range
of power, heat, and water sector decarbonization
technologies. Quantifying specific
ambitions for long-duration energy
storage (LDES) deployment, similar to
existing targets for renewable energy and
hydrogen, will provide a clear direction
for stakeholders and help target efforts
for LDES development in the region.
Continued investment in R&D is crucial
to advance hydrogen storage technologies.
Collaborations between government
agencies, academic institutions, and private
enterprises can drive innovation and
address technical challenges associated
with hydrogen storage.
Implementing pilot projects, such as
utilizing salt domes for hydrogen storage,
can provide valuable insights into the
practical aspects of large-scale hydrogen
storage. These projects can serve as
testbeds for refining technologies and
developing best practices.
Developing clear regulations and standards
for hydrogen production, storage,
and distribution is essential to ensure
safety, reliability, and public acceptance.
A robust regulatory framework can also
attract investments by providing certainty
to investors.
Given the transnational nature of energy
infrastructure, regional cooperation
among GCC countries can lead to shared
investments, harmonized standards, and
integrated markets for hydrogen. Collaborative
efforts can amplify the benefits
and accelerate the adoption of hydrogen
technologies.
By embracing strategies such as developing
comprehensive energy plans,
investing in research and development,
piloting large-scale storage projects, establishing
regulatory frameworks, and
fostering regional cooperation, the
thetechnologyexpress.com
The National Hydrogen
Strategy 2050 aims to
support low-carbon local
industries, contribute
to achieving climate
neutrality, and enhance
the UAE’s position as one
of the largest producers
of hydrogen by 2031.”
H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei,
UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure
UAE and the GCC region can position
themselves at the forefront of the global
energy transition.
Leveraging hydrogen storage technologies
will enhance energy security,
drive economic growth, and promote
environmental sustainability. The UAE’s
National Hydrogen Strategy 2023 aims
to develop and implement low-carbon
hydrogen, positioning the country as a
leader in the global hydrogen economy.
Investments in renewable energy, including
a projected AED 600 billion by
2050, demonstrate the UAE’s commitment
to sustainable economic growth
and reduced carbon emissions. Additionally,
the UAE’s competitive edge in
green hydrogen production, supported
by abundant solar energy and robust
infrastructure, aligns with its strategic
goals for energy diversification and
sustainability.
By embracing advanced hydrogen
storage technologies, the UAE and GCC
region can significantly enhance energy
security, and stimulate economic growth.
Apr 2025 / 65

UAE Tech NEWS
Inside Abu Dhabi’s
$3.3B Smart City Plan
Abu Dhabi has announced a $3.3
billion investment to become
the world’s first fully AI-native
city by 2027. This initiative aims to
revolutionise urban living by integrating
artificial intelligence across
infrastructure, economy, and public
services, enhancing efficiency and
sustainability. Key projects include
the development of Masdar City and
Zayed Smart City, leveraging AI and
IoT to optimise urban infrastructure.
UAE Launches Etihad-SAT, Its First SAR Satellite
Successfully
On 15 March 2025, the UAE’s
Mohammed Bin Rashid Space
Centre (MBRSC) successfully
launched Etihad-SAT, its first Synthetic
Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite,
aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from
Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Weighing 220kg, Etihad-SAT
enhances Earth observation by providing
high-resolution images in all
weather conditions, day or night. Developed
in partnership with South Korea’s
Satrec Initiative, it underscores
the UAE’s commitment to advancing
space technology.
UAE Cyber Security
Council Finds 1,200
Online Begging Scams
In 2024, the UAE Cybersecurity
Council detected over 1,200 cases
of online begging scams, particularly
prevalent during Ramadan. Fraudsters
utilised fake accounts, emotional
videos, and deepfake technology
to solicit donations. Authorities are
collaborating with security agencies
and financial institutions to shut down
these fraudulent activities and prosecute
offenders. The public is advised
to verify donation requests and report
suspicious activities to authorities.
Abu Dhabi and Microsoft
Team up to Bring
AI to Government Following
$3.5B Digital
Investment
Abu Dhabi’s government has partnered
with Microsoft to integrate
artificial intelligence (AI) into its
public services, following a substantial
$3.5 billion investment in digital transformation.
This collaboration aims to
enhance governmental efficiency and
service delivery by leveraging Microsoft’s
AI expertise. The initiative underscores
Abu Dhabi’s commitment to adopting
advanced technologies to improve
public sector operations.
Abu Dhabi is Set to
Introduce the World’s
Largest Drone Light
Show
Abu Dhabi is poised to unveil the
world’s largest drone light show,
deploying a cutting-edge fleet
of 10,000 drones. This initiative, a
collaboration between the Department
of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi,
Nova Sky Stories, and Analog, aims to
blend cultural heritage with advanced
technology, delivering immersive aerial
performances across iconic city
landmarks.
66 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
Sheikh Tahnoon bin
Zayed discusses AI
with Elon Musk
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al
Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu
Dhabi and National Security Adviser,
met with Elon Musk in Washington,
D.C., to discuss artificial intelligence
and advanced technology’s
role in enhancing government systems
and service delivery. They explored
collaboration opportunities in
key sectors to foster innovation and
responsiveness.
Women Making Waves in UAE’s Tech Industry
2025
The UAE is championing women’s
empowerment in technology,
aligning with the 2025 International
Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate
Action.” Initiatives such as the
Women in Technology Forum and
Awards 2025 celebrate female inno-
vators. The UAE’s National AI Strategy
2031 emphasises diversity, leading to
increased female participation in AI.
Notably, women constitute 80% of
the UAE Space Agency’s Mars Mission
team.
G42 and NVIDIA Collaborate
to Introduce
a Hyper-local Weather
Forecasting Model
G42 and NVIDIA have launched a
pioneering AI-driven hyper-local
weather forecasting system, enhancing
prediction accuracy and efficiency.
This collaboration builds upon
their establishment of the Earth-2 Climate
Tech Lab in Abu Dhabi, aiming to
provide precise, real-time forecasts to
improve disaster preparedness and infrastructure
resilience.
Shazam Now Lets
You Easily Add Identified
Songs to Spotify,
Apple Music Playlists
Shazam’s latest update enhances
integration with Spotify and Apple
Music. Now, songs identified
via the Shazam app, Control Centre,
Siri, or Shortcuts are automatically
added to a ‘My Shazam Tracks’ playlist
in your connected music service. To
enable this feature, connect Shazam
to your preferred service and toggle
‘Sync your songs’ in Shazam settings.
MoHRE Completes
Over 34 Million Smart
Transactions in 2024,
Up 59% From 2023
In 2024, the UAE’s Ministry of Human
Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)
completed over 34 million smart transactions,
a 59% increase from 2023’s
20 million. This growth reflects MoHRE’s
effective adoption of digital solutions
and AI technologies, enhancing service
efficiency and customer experience. The
ministry offers over 100 services available
24/7 via its website and mobile app.
Apr 2025 / 67

GLOBAL NEWS
IATA Urges Adoption of
Digital Identity Technologies
in Aviation
Security
The International Air Transport
Association (IATA) is advocating
for the swift implementation
of digital identity technologies, such
as Verifiable Credentials (VC) and Decentralized
Identifiers (DID), to bolster
aviation security and operational efficiency.
This initiative aims to enhance
document integrity, reduce fraud, and
streamline passenger experiences
through biometric recognition, aligning
with IATA’s One ID initiative.
Bitcoin Soars 20%
After Trump Reveals
U.S. Crypto Reserve
Bitcoin’s price surged over 20% to
surpass $91,000 after President
Trump announced the establishment
of a U.S. crypto strategic reserve,
including Bitcoin and Ethereum. This
initiative aims to position the United
States as a leader in the cryptocurrency
industry, reflecting a significant policy
shift towards digital assets.
Intel Appoints Lip-Bu
Tan as Its New CEO,
Ushering in a New Era
Intel has appointed Lip-Bu Tan as its
new CEO, effective March 18, 2025.
Tan, former CEO of Cadence Design
Systems and an Intel board member,
aims to revitalize Intel’s manufacturing
operations and enhance its AI semiconductor
offerings. His appointment
has positively impacted Intel’s stock,
reflecting investor optimism about the
company’s future under his leadership.
Nothing Introduces Phone (3a) to Disrupt
Smartphone Industry
London-based company Nothing,
led by OnePlus co-founder Carl
Pei, has launched the Phone (3a)
series, aiming to disrupt the smartphone
industry. The Phone (3a) features
a distinctive clear glass back
with an innovative ‘glyph interface’
of LED lights, offering visual notifications.
Priced competitively at $600
AUD, it boasts a powerful camera,
AI-based features like the Essential
Space for organizing notes and reminders,
and various configurations
starting at $599 AUD.
Ram Unveils Limited-Edition
1500 RHO
Mopar for 2025
Ram has introduced the limited-edition
2025 Ram 1500 RHO Mopar,
enhancing its off-road capabilities
with exclusive features. The Mopar
package, priced at $6,500, adds a
bed-mounted spare-tire carrier, RamBar,
running boards, and tow hooks. This
edition is powered by a 540-horsepower
High-Output 3.0L Hurricane engine, delivering
521 lb-ft of torque. Production is
limited to 250 units, with 225 allocated
for the U.S. and 25 for Canada, bringing
the total MSRP to $88,730.
68 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
Porsche Unveils 2025
eBike Sport With Performance
Upgrades
Porsche has introduced the 2025
eBike Sport, featuring an ultra-light
carbon frame, a Fox Float 34 Performance
Elite suspension fork with 120
mm travel, and Xentis Mount-X five-spoke
carbon wheels. Equipped with a Shimano
EP801 motor and 12-speed Shimano
XT Di2 electronic derailleur, it ensures
precise shifting. The bike weighs 21.6
kg (size M) and includes a Supernova
Starstream X Pro front light (up to 1,000
lumens) and Topeak BeSeen rear light
for enhanced visibility.
Everything Nvidia Announced at GTC 2025:
Groundbreaking AI, GPU, and Robotics Innovations
At GTC 2025, Nvidia unveiled the
Blackwell Ultra GPU, featuring
larger memory to support
advanced AI models, available later
this year. The Vera Rubin AI superchip
platform is set for release in 2026,
with an enhanced Rubin Ultra version
in 2027. In robotics, Nvidia introduced
“Blue,” developed with Disney
Research and Google DeepMind,
alongside the new Newton physics
engine. The company also launched
Nvidia Dynamo, an open-source
inference software system, and
announced a partnership with General
Motors for custom AI systems.
AI-Powered Humanoid
Robots Revolutionise
Governance in Shenzhen
Space42 and Cobham Satcom
have launched IP NEO, a satellite
broadband terminal designed
for critical sectors requiring secure,
uninterrupted communications. Utilising
L-Band technology, IP NEO offers
resilience, portability, and data security,
ensuring seamless connectivity
in high-risk or remote environments.
Compatible with the forthcoming
Thuraya 4 satellite, it supports highspeed
data transmission, including internet
browsing, video conferencing,
and VPN access.
Musk, Ambani join
hands in surprise
Starlink India internet
deal
In a strategic move, Mukesh Ambani’s
Reliance Jio has partnered with
Elon Musk’s SpaceX to introduce
Starlink satellite internet services in
India. This collaboration aims to enhance
connectivity, especially in remote
regions, by distributing Starlink
equipment through Jio’s extensive
retail network, pending government
approval.
NASA and SpaceX
Launch Crew-10
Mission to Bring
‘Stranded’ ISS Astronauts
back to Earth
NASA and SpaceX successfully
launched the Crew-10 mission,
facilitating the return of
astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry
“Butch” Wilmore, who were stranded
on the International Space Station
for nine months due to technical issues
with their original spacecraft.
The Crew-10 mission’s Dragon capsule
docked with the ISS on 16 March
2025, enabling Williams and Wilmore
to return to Earth on 18 March.
Apr 2025 / 69

Battery TECHNOLOGY
AI-DRIVEN BATTERY
REVOLUTION:
SMARTER, SAFER, AND MORE
EFFICIENT
The UAE and GCC are integrating artificial intelligence (AI)
into battery technology to enhance energy efficiency and
sustainability. Notably, the UAE has launched the world’s
first large-scale 24/7 solar photovoltaic and battery storage
project in Abu Dhabi, delivering up to 1GW of baseload
power daily from renewable sources. This initiative
underscores the region’s commitment to technological
innovation and sustainable energy solutions.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping
battery technology, creating
smarter, safer, and more efficient
energy storage systems. This technological
evolution holds great importance
for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and
the wider Gulf Cooperation Council
(GCC) region. It aligns with their strategic
goals of promoting technological
innovation, enhancing energy efficiency,
and advancing sustainability. AI-driven
advancements are enhancing battery
performance, optimising energy management,
and supporting the development
of renewable energy infrastructure. In
the UAE, AI-powered battery systems
are expected to contribute to achieving
clean energy targets and improving grid
stability. As the region continues investing
in innovative solutions, AI’s role in
70 \ Apr 2025

battery technology will likely expand,
further boosting energy resilience.
AI-Driven Advancements in Battery
Technology
The integration of AI into battery technology
encompasses several key advancements.
One notable development is in
predictive maintenance, where AI-powered
Battery Management Systems (BMS)
facilitate real-time monitoring and fault
detection, thereby enhancing operational
reliability. These intelligent BMS analyze
extensive datasets to anticipate potential
failures before they occur, reducing
downtime and maintenance costs.
Another significant application of AI
is in supply chain optimization. AI technologies
can predict equipment failure
and maintenance needs based on data
from sensors and other sources, enabling
proactive maintenance strategies. This
approach reduces downtime and lost
revenue, thereby improving operational
efficiency.
Furthermore, AI accelerates the discovery
of new materials and optimises
battery designs for improved energy
density, safety, and efficiency. This rapid
advancement is essential for developing
solid-state and sodium-ion batteries,
which offer superior performance
and safety compared to conventional
lithium-ion batteries. AI-driven simulations
and predictive models enable
researchers to identify optimal materials
and configurations, significantly reducing
development time.
Implications for the UAE and GCC
For the UAE and GCC, embracing
AI-enhanced battery technologies
offers several strategic advantages.
Advanced batteries are pivotal for integrating
renewable energy sources, a
cornerstone of the region’s sustainability
goals. The UAE’s plan to construct a
$6 billion, 5-gigawatt solar plant with
19GWh of battery storage exemplifies
this commitment, aiming to provide a
consistent 1GW power output.
Investments in AI and battery technologies
also align with economic diversification
strategies, reducing reliance
on oil and gas. The UAE’s National AI
Strategy and the appointment of the
world’s first Minister of AI underscore
this focus, positioning the nation as a
leader in technological innovation.
Moreover, AI-driven supply chain efficiencies
enhance the competitiveness
of regional industries. The announce-
ment of a $3.2 billion battery-cell gigafactory
in Ras Al Khaimah to produce
next-generation solid-state battery cells
positions the UAE at the forefront of
battery technology.
Strategic Actions and Future Outlook
To capitalise on these advancements,
regional stakeholders must take strategic
actions. Investing resources in
AI and battery research is essential for
driving innovation and maintaining competitiveness.
Collaborating with global
tech companies can facilitate technology
transfer, enhance skill development, and
accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge
solutions.
Additionally, establishing research hubs
and fostering partnerships with academic
institutions can strengthen local expertise.
Developing regulatory frameworks
that encourage AI integration in energy
storage systems will further support the
region’s technological growth.
thetechnologyexpress.com
Whoever is going to lead
in the Artificial Intelligence
race will lead the
future.”
H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama,
UAE Minister of State for Artificial
Intelligence
Building a Skilled Talent Pool through
Education
Implementing educational programs focused
on AI and battery technologies is
essential for developing a skilled talent
pool capable of driving innovation. Universities
and technical institutes must
introduce specialised curricula covering
AI-driven energy systems, battery design,
and materials science. Collaborative research
initiatives with industry partners
can further enhance practical knowledge,
ensuring academic training aligns with
industry needs. This approach will play
a critical role in supporting the region’s
technological growth.
Creating policies that encourage AI
integration in energy sectors is essential
for fostering innovation while addressing
ethical and security concerns. Regulations
should strike a balance between
promoting technological advancements
and ensuring public safety and data privacy.
Establishing clear guidelines for AI
deployment in energy storage systems
can boost investor confidence and drive
adoption. Additionally, collaboration between
government agencies, industry
stakeholders, and research institutions is
vital to develop frameworks that support
sustainable and responsible AI integration.
Encouraging collaborations between
governments and private enterprises is
key to accelerating the deployment of
AI-driven battery solutions. These partnerships
can effectively pool resources,
knowledge, and expertise, fostering innovation
and enhancing scalability. Joint
initiatives can also streamline regulatory
approvals and promote investment in
research and development. By working
together, public and private sectors can
create a robust ecosystem that supports
technological advancements, ultimately
contributing to the region’s clean energy
goals and economic growth.
By embracing AI in battery technology,
the UAE and GCC can significantly
improve energy efficiency and sustainability.
Integrating AI enhances battery
management, optimising energy storage,
distribution, and usage. This technological
advancement supports the region’s
ambitious clean energy goals, boosting
renewable energy adoption and reducing
carbon emissions.
The UAE and GCC’s adoption of AI in
battery technology marks a critical step
toward achieving energy efficiency and
sustainability. By leveraging AI-driven
systems, the region is enhancing energy
storage, reducing carbon emissions,
and supporting its clean energy
goals. This forward-thinking approach
not only strengthens their positions as
technological leaders and aligns with
their vision of building smart, eco-friendly
infrastructure. Continued investment
in AI-powered battery solutions will be
essential for a sustainable future.
Apr 2025 / 71

GADGET REVIEWs
DE’LONGHI LINEA CLASSIC:
ITALIAN DESIGN MEETS FUNCTIONALITY
The De’Longhi Linea Classic Espresso Machine exemplifies
Italian design and engineering, offering coffee
enthusiasts in the UAE a blend of style and functionality.
This machine caters to both seasoned baristas and novices
seeking café-quality beverages at home.
Crafted with a stainless steel body, the Linea Classic ensures
durability and a sleek aesthetic that complements modern
kitchens. Its compact dimensions (12” H x 8.89” W x 11.14”
D) make it suitable for various countertop spaces without
compromising performance.
Functionality is at the forefront of its design. The machine
features two customizable preset recipes for single and double
espressos, allowing users to tailor their coffee strength
and volume. The chrome-detailed pressure gauge provides
real-time feedback, ensuring optimal extraction pressure for
each brew.
The steam wand offers two settings: one for silky steamed
milk and another for rich, velvety microfoam, ideal for latte art
enthusiasts. This versatility enables the creation of various
beverages, from cappuccinos to flat whites. The adjustable
double-height drip tray accommodates different cup sizes,
enhancing user convenience.
Equipped with a 15-bar professional pump, the Linea Classic
ensures consistent pressure for rich crema and robust flavour
extraction. The Thermoblock technology rapidly achieves the
ideal brewing temperature, maintaining stability throughout
the process. These features contribute to a reliable and
efficient brewing experience.
In the UAE, where coffee culture is thriving, the De’Longhi
Linea Classic offers a perfect blend of style and functionality
for both homes and offices. Its user-friendly interface and
professional-grade features cater to casual drinkers and coffee
enthusiasts alike, delivering café-quality experiences at home.
Designed with sustainability in mind, its removable steam
wand, water tank, and drip tray ensure easy cleaning, promoting
longevity and reducing waste. For those looking to
purchase the Linea Classic, it is available on Amazon.ae and
at Sharaf DG, offering a variety of options to suit different
budgets and preferences across the UAE.
The De’Longhi Linea Classic Espresso Machine merges
aesthetic appeal with functional excellence. Its design,
versatility, and user-centric features make it a noteworthy
consideration for anyone looking to enhance their coffee
experience in the UAE.
72 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
ASUS VIVOBOOK 18:
POWER AND STYLE FOR MODERN USERS
Asus’s Vivobook series has consistently delivered reliable
and stylish laptops, and the Vivobook 18 continues this
tradition. This 18.4-inch laptop combines expansive
display real estate with robust performance, catering to both
professionals and tech enthusiasts in the UAE.
At the heart of the Vivobook 18 is the AMD Ryzen 7 260
processor, featuring eight Zen 4 cores and a maximum clock
speed of 5.1GHz. This ensures seamless multitasking and
efficient handling of demanding applications. Complementing
the CPU is the AMD Radeon 780M graphics unit, which enhances
visual performance for both work and entertainment
purposes. Users can configure the laptop with up to 32GB of
DDR5 RAM and choose between 512GB to 1TB of PCIe 4.0
SSD storage, providing ample space and speed for various
computing needs.
The Vivobook 18’s display is a standout feature, boasting a
1920 × 1200 resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a 144Hz
refresh rate. With a 90% screen-to-body ratio and 300 nits
brightness, the screen delivers immersive visuals suitable
for both creative professionals and entertainment seekers.
The display also reduces blue light emissions, making it comfortable
for extended use.
In terms of connectivity, the Vivobook 18 offers a comprehensive
selection of ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 1
Type-C ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, an HDMI ... .
The USB-C ports support Display ... facilitating connections
to external monitors and efficient charging. The laptop is
powered by a 75Wh battery capable of fast charging up to
60% in just 49 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime during
busy schedules.
Designed with durability in mind, the Vivobook 18 meets
MIL-STD 810H ... and maintains a sleek profile at 1.86 cm
thickness and 2.6 kg weight. Additional features include a
Windows Hello-compatible infrared camera for secure facial
recognition login, a physical privacy shutter, and AI noise-canceling
technology for clearer communication during virtual
meetings.
Asus has launched the Vivobook at a price of €899, with
expectations for it to reach other markets, including the UAE,
in the near future. Prospective buyers in the UAE should
monitor local retailers and Asus’s official channels for updates
on availability and pricing.
Apr 2025 / 73

Energy Storage
ENERGY STORAGE
BEYOND BATTERIES:
GRAVITY, FLOW, AND IRON-AIR
SYSTEMS
As the UAE accelerates its renewable energy transition,
the need for efficient energy storage solutions has never
been greater. Beyond traditional lithium-ion batteries,
technologies like gravity-based storage, vanadium flow
batteries, and iron-air systems offer scalable and sustainable
alternatives. This article explores how these innovations
are reshaping the UAE’s energy landscape, providing
reliable storage for a cleaner, more resilient power grid.
As the UAE accelerates its clean
energy transition, reliance on
lithium-ion batteries is being reconsidered.
Emerging technologies like
gravity-based energy storage systems
(GESS), vanadium flow batteries (VRFBs),
and iron-air batteries are gaining traction.
Unlike conventional storage, these alternatives
offer longer lifespans, improved
scalability, and enhanced sustainability.
Gravity storage leverages kinetic energy,
flow batteries provide adaptable capacity,
and iron-air systems use abundant
materials for cost-effective storage.
With projects like the Emirates Water and
Electricity Company’s large-scale battery
system proposal, the UAE is actively
74 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
exploring these innovations. Businesses
and policymakers are evaluating how
such solutions can bolster grid resilience,
support renewable integration, and contribute
to energy security. Embracing
these technologies could position the
UAE as a leader in sustainable energy
storage.
Energy Storage Systems in Use
Gravity-Based Energy Storage Systems
Gravity-based energy storage systems
(GESS) harness gravitational potential
energy by elevating heavy masses during
periods of excess energy production
and releasing them to generate electricity
when needed. This method offers
a pollution-free, economical solution with
a lifespan exceeding 40 years and a
round-trip efficiency between 75-85%,
depending on the technology employed.
Innovations in this field include the
development of superstructure towers,
designed to integrate GESS into
tall buildings. These structures, reaching
heights of up to 1,000 meters, utilize a
hollowed design to accommodate the
storage system, effectively transforming
skyscrapers into massive batteries.
Vanadium Flow Batteries
Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs)
utilize vanadium ions in various oxidation
states to store and release energy. A
notable advantage of VRFBs is the decoupling
of energy capacity and power
generation; the energy capacity is determined
by the volume of electrolyte
stored, while power generation depends
on the number of cell stacks.
This technology is particularly suitable
for large-scale energy storage applications
due to its long cycle life and the
abundance of vanadium resources.
However, the cost and availability of
vanadium can pose challenges, prompting
research into alternative materials
and chemistries.
Iron-Air Batteries
Iron-air batteries operate by oxidizing
iron to release energy and reducing iron
oxide to store energy. These batteries
are known for their high energy density
and the abundance of iron, making
them a cost-effective and sustainable
option for large-scale energy storage.
Recent advancements have focused on
improving the efficiency and lifespan
of these batteries to make them more
This will, for the first
time ever, transform
renewable energy into
baseload energy. It is
a first step that could
become a giant leap.”
H.E Dr. Sultan Al Jaber,
UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced
Technology
competitive with existing technologies.
Impact on UAE Businesses and Investments
The UAE’s commitment to renewable
energy is exemplified by initiatives such
as the Emirates Water and Electricity
Company’s (EWEC) request for proposals
to develop a 400 MW battery energy
storage system, providing up to 800
MWh of storage capacity. Integrating
alternative energy storage technologies
like GESS, VRFBs, and iron-air batteries
can offer several benefits:
Scalability: These technologies can be
tailored to various scales, from small
communities to large urban centers,
aligning with the UAE’s diverse energy
needs.
Sustainability: Utilizing abundant materials
such as iron and vanadium reduces
reliance on scarce resources, supporting
the UAE’s sustainability goals.
Economic Diversification: Investing in
innovative energy storage solutions can
stimulate local industries, create jobs,
and position the UAE as a leader in renewable
energy technologies.
What’s Next for UAE’s Energy Storage
Landscape?
To leverage emerging energy storage
technologies, UAE businesses and policymakers
can adopt several strategic
actions:
Invest in Research and Development:
Allocating resources to R&D can enhance
the adaptation of gravity-based systems,
vanadium flow batteries, and iron-air
batteries to the UAE’s unique environmental
and infrastructural conditions.
Innovations tailored to local needs will
improve efficiency and reliability.
Pilot Projects: Launching pilot projects
for alternative storage systems will
provide critical data and assess their
feasibility. These initiatives will serve
as testing grounds to optimise performance,
paving the way for large-scale
implementation.
Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborative
efforts between government entities
and private companies can accelerate
technology adoption. Partnerships will
enable knowledge exchange, share financial
risks, and drive capital investment.
Successful models from regions
like Europe and the US can guide UAE’s
approach.
Regulatory Frameworks: Developing
clear policies and supportive regulations
will encourage investments in advanced
storage technologies. Incentives for renewable
integration, streamlined approvals,
and transparent market mechanisms
will further accelerate adoption.
This forward-thinking approach will
not only ensure energy security but also
position the UAE as a global leader in
sustainable energy innovation.
Utitlising Energy Storage Systems
Embracing innovative energy storage
solutions is essential for the UAE’s
sustainable energy future. By leading
in technological advancements and
encouraging collaboration between
public and private sectors, the nation
can strengthen its energy infrastructure.
Leveraging alternatives like gravity-based
systems, vanadium flow batteries, and
iron-air batteries will enhance grid resilience
and support renewable integration.
With a proactive approach, the UAE can
set a benchmark in energy innovation,
ensuring long-term energy security and
contributing to global sustainability efforts.
Apr 2025 / 75

VISIONARY Spotlight
DR. SULTAN
AL JABER
MINISTER OF INDUSTRY AND
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY, UAE
Musabbeh Al Kaabi is the Executive
Director of Low Carbon
Solutions & International Growth
at the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
(ADNOC), a role he assumed in January
2023. This newly established directorate
underscores ADNOC’s commitment
to sustainable energy, focusing on investments
in new energies, low-carbon
solutions, and international expansion
in sectors such as gas, liquefied natural
gas (LNG), and chemicals.
With over 27 years of experience
in the energy sector, Al Kaabi brings
a wealth of expertise to his position.
He began his career at ADNOC, where
he spent 16 years, before transitioning
to Mubadala Investment Company. At
Mubadala, he served as Chief Executive
Officer of the UAE Investments platform,
contributing significantly to the UAE’s
economic transformation by investing
in national champions and fostering industrial
clusters.
In addition to his role at ADNOC, Al
Kaabi serves on the boards of several
prominent organizations, including
Masdar, Tabreed, ADNOC Gas, ADNOC
Drilling, and the Environment Agency
Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, born on
August 31, 1973, in Umm Al Quwain,
UAE, is a prominent Emirati
politician and business leader. He holds
a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
from the University of Southern
California, an MBA from California State
University at Los Angeles, and a PhD in
business and economics from Coventry
University.
In his political career, Dr. Al Jaber was
appointed Minister of State in 2013, serv-
– Abu Dhabi. His leadership extends to
chairing Mubadala Energy and Al Yah
Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat),
reflecting his diverse involvement
in advancing the UAE’s strategic interests
across various sectors.
Al Kaabi’s visionary leadership in
low-carbon solutions positions him at
the forefront of the global energy transition,
aligning with the UAE’s commitment
to sustainability and net-zero emissions
by 2050.
ing until July 2020, when he became the
UAE’s Minister of Industry and Advanced
Technology. In November 2020, he was
also appointed as the UAE’s Special Envoy
for Climate Change, representing the
nation in international climate forums.
Dr. Al Jaber’s business career is
marked by significant leadership roles.
He was the founding CEO of Masdar in
2006 and became its chairman in 2014.
Under his guidance, Masdar expanded
its renewable energy investments to 40
countries by the end of 2022. He also
led a restructuring that brought in TAQA,
ADNOC, and Mubadala as shareholders in
2022, aiming to expand Masdar’s clean
energy capacity to 100 GW by 2030.
Starting his career as an engineer
at the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
(ADNOC), Dr. Al Jaber was appointed
CEO in 2016. He has overseen the public
listing of several ADNOC businesses and
attracted approximately $26 billion in
international investments from companies
like BlackRock, Eni, and KKR. Despite
global pressures to reduce fossil fuel
output, ADNOC, under his leadership,
aims to increase crude oil production
from 3 million barrels per day in 2016
to 5 million by 2030.
MUSABBEH
AL KAABI
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LOW CARBON
SOLUTIONS & INTERNATIONAL
GROWTH, ADNOC
76 \ Apr 2025

AHMED ALI
AL EBRAHIM
CEO, GCC INTERCONNECTION
AUTHORITY (GCCIA)
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, appointed
as CEO of Masdar in early
2016, has played a pivotal role in
transforming the company into a global
leader in renewable energy. Under his
leadership, Masdar has significantly expanded
its investments across various
clean energy sectors, including solar,
wind, and green hydrogen, aligning with
the United Arab Emirates’ sustainability
objectives.
In October 2024, Al Ramahi announced
Masdar’s ambitious plan to increase its
wind and solar capacity to 100 gigawatts
by 2030, aiming to position the company
among the world’s largest renewable
energy providers. This strategy includes
substantial investments in key markets
such as the Middle East, Europe, the
United States, and Asia, with a balanced
focus on both solar and wind projects.
Demonstrating this commitment, Masdar
entered into a $15 billion agreement
with the Philippines in January 2025 to
develop renewable energy projects,
including solar, wind, and battery energy
storage systems, targeting up to
1 gigawatt of clean energy by 2030.
Additionally, in September 2024, Masdar
acquired Saeta Yield from Brookfield for
Ahmed Ali Al Ebrahim, a Bahraini
national, serves as the Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) of the Gulf
Cooperation Council Interconnection
Authority (GCCIA), overseeing a 400kV
super-grid that interconnects the power
systems of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, UAE,
Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, collectively
managing approximately 120 GW of installed
capacity. With over 34 years
of experience in power systems and
$1.4 billion, encompassing 745 megawatts
of wind energy assets and 1.6
gigawatts of projects under development
in Spain and Portugal.
Al Ramahi’s strategic vision has not
only expanded Masdar’s global footprint
but also reinforced the UAE’s position
as a major player in the clean energy
sector, advancing the nation’s sustainability
goals and contributing to global
efforts in combating climate change.
thetechnologyexpress.com
infrastructure project planning, Al Ebrahim
has led GCCIA to the forefront of
enhancing regional energy connectivity
through the integration of advanced
technologies. The authority has been
instrumental in uniting the power grids
of the six Gulf countries into a single,
resilient network since 2009, facilitating
not only the sharing of electricity but
also creating a safety net against blackouts,
ensuring reliable energy supply,
and making power more affordable and
sustainable for all member states.
In pursuit of innovation, GCCIA has
entered into a Memorandum of Understanding
with the Electric Power
Research Institute (EPRI) to conduct
research and development in energy
technologies, focusing on areas such
as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain,
and cybersecurity.
This collaboration aims to enhance the
security and efficiency of smart grids
and power distribution automation systems
in the Gulf region. GCCIA seeks
to revolutionize energy efficiency and
cross-border power trading, ensuring a
more sustainable and resilient energy
network for the UAE and the broader
GCC.
MOHAMED
JAMEEL AL
RAMAHI
CEO, MASDAR
Apr 2025 / 77

Smart Cities
QUANTUM-POWERED
SMART CITIES:
AI-OPTIMIZED GRIDS SHAPING
THE UAE’S FUTURE
As the UAE accelerates its smart city initiatives, the integration
of quantum computing and AI-driven grids is
reshaping urban energy systems. These cutting-edge
technologies are empowering the development of resilient,
renewable-powered smart grids, poised to revolutionise
energy consumption and management. This article
explores how these advancements are transforming the
UAE’s urban landscapes, with a focus on their potential
impact on businesses, investments, and future trends.
The UAE is positioning itself as a
global leader in the development
of smart cities, with the integration
of quantum computing and AI-powered
grids playing a pivotal role in this ambitious
transformation. As urban centres
continue to evolve, the role of energy
efficiency and sustainability becomes
crucial. By harnessing these advanced
technologies, the UAE is not only ensuring
the future-proofing of its cities
but also setting a precedent for other
nations in the GCC and beyond.
78 \ Apr 2025

The Emergence of Quantum and AI-Driven
Smart Grids
In recent years, quantum computing and
artificial intelligence have emerged as
key enablers in the development of
smarter, more resilient energy grids.
Quantum computing’s ability to process
vast amounts of data at unprecedented
speeds is combined with AI’s capacity for
predictive analysis and optimization. This
fusion allows for the creation of AI-optimized
smart grids capable of real-time
decision-making, drastically improving
efficiency in energy use across urban
infrastructures.
In the UAE, this trend is being reinforced
by initiatives like the Dubai
Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA)
“Smart Grid” project, which aims to integrate
renewable energy sources into the
city’s grid system. According to DEWA,
the smart grid will optimise the energy
distribution process, decrease waste,
and reduce costs, all while making the
grid more adaptable to future needs.
Further driving this innovation is the
UAE’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy
2031, which underscores AI’s role in
enhancing urban sustainability and energy
management. By harnessing quantum
and AI technologies, cities can better
predict power demand, integrate various
energy sources like solar and wind,
and efficiently manage energy flow to
meet real-time consumption patterns.
This results in not only reduced carbon
footprints but also enhanced economic
efficiency by optimising the supply
and demand dynamics of urban energy
systems.
The Impact on UAE Businesses and
Investments
The advent of AI-powered smart grids
and quantum computing in the UAE
holds immense implications for both
businesses and investors. On the one
hand, companies that specialise in energy
technology, AI software, and quantum
computing stand to benefit directly from
government initiatives and investments.
The UAE’s push for innovation creates
significant opportunities for businesses in
these sectors to expand their presence
and contribute to building smarter, more
sustainable cities.
For businesses in the construction,
energy, and utilities sectors, this shift
means a dramatic change in the way they
approach city infrastructure projects. Real-time
energy monitoring, more efficient
grid management, and renewable energy
The UAE has become a
significant player in the
global governance of
artificial intelligence,
actively contributing
to international policy
discussions and helping
define the standards and
frameworks that will
shape the future of AI.”
H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama,
Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence,
Digital Economy, and Remote
Work Applications
integration can lead to cost reductions,
enhanced performance, and long-term
sustainability. These advancements also
present potential new revenue streams
through the development of energy-efficient
technologies and solutions for
other cities in the GCC and beyond.
Investors are equally poised to benefit.
The UAE government has made considerable
investments in tech infrastructure,
driving the creation of new opportunities
for both local and international companies
to collaborate and innovate. According to
a 2023 report by PwC, the UAE’s smart
city initiatives are expected to attract
billions in foreign investment over the
next decade, with a significant portion
allocated to tech solutions involving AI
and quantum computing.
thetechnologyexpress.com
Moreover, as the UAE strengthens its
position as a global tech hub, smart grid
systems will become increasingly crucial
to the development of eco-friendly cities
that rely on renewable energy sources.
The incorporation of these technologies
creates an attractive proposition
for global investors looking to tap into
a rapidly growing market for sustainable
infrastructure solutions.
Predictions and Actionable Insights
for the Future
Looking ahead, the role of quantum computing
and AI-optimised grids in shaping
the future of smart cities in the UAE
seems certain. However, key challenges
remain, particularly in terms of scaling
these technologies and ensuring their
integration across the country’s diverse
urban centres.
One of the most immediate actions
businesses can take is to align their strategies
with the UAE’s push for sustainability
and digital transformation. This involves
embracing AI and quantum computing
solutions that support energy efficiency,
data analysis, and real-time grid optimisation.
Companies should also consider
strategic partnerships with government
agencies, such as DEWA, to remain at
the forefront of these technological
advancements.
For investors, the emphasis should
be on diversifying portfolios to include
tech-centric businesses focusing on energy
and infrastructure innovation. As
the UAE continues to lead in this space,
investors can capitalise on the growing
demand for sustainable, tech-driven
solutions across the region.
In the medium term, we expect to see
a rise in startups focusing on energy
storage solutions, smart grid technologies,
and AI-based analytics, as these
areas will become increasingly vital to the
smooth operation of UAE smart cities.
Governments in the GCC are also likely
to collaborate on cross-border tech
projects to create a unified smart grid
system across the region.
A Future of Smart, Sustainable Cities
The integration of quantum computing
and AI-optimised grids in UAE cities is a
significant leap towards creating smarter,
more resilient urban environments. By
focusing on renewable energy integration,
demand-response strategies, and
data-driven decision-making, the UAE is
setting a new standard for smart cities
worldwide.
Apr 2025 / 79

DRIVE TO THE FUTURE
2027 RIVIAN R3X
The 2027 Rivian R3X marks a bold evolution in Rivian’s growing lineup, combining rally-inspired design
with advanced electric performance. Positioned as a high-performance compact crossover, the R3X
is set to appeal to the UAE’s adventurous drivers who seek both cutting-edge technology and rugged
versatility.
80 \ Apr 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
250 km/h
Speed
1131 Nm
Torque
850 HP
Horse Power
Built on Rivian’s new midsize platform, the R3X
features a tri-motor configuration that delivers
exceptional power and agility. With one motor
at the front and two at the rear, it achieves blistering
acceleration, going from 0-100 km/h in under 3 seconds—rivaling
high-end supercars. The structural battery
pack ensures over 300 miles of range per charge,
while DC fast charging allows replenishment from 10%
to 80% in just 30 minutes. This makes the R3X ideal
for long journeys across the UAE’s diverse landscapes,
from urban roads to desert trails. Its adaptive suspension
system is tuned for both on-road precision and
off-road capability, ensuring versatility for drivers who
demand more from their vehicles.
The design philosophy of the R3X emphasizes rugged
elegance and functionality. Spy images reveal rally-inspired
details such as turbo fan-style wheels, bold
fenders, and a panoramic glass roof that enhances
openness and visibility. The dual-opening rear hatch
adds practicality for outdoor enthusiasts, while folding
front and rear seats enable car camping or gear
storage. Inside, the cabin combines premium materials
with utilitarian features, including accessory straps
for securing equipment and Rivian’s latest infotainment
system with intuitive controls. A large touchscreen
interface paired with a digital driver display ensures
seamless access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle
settings.
Driving dynamics remain central to the R3X’s appeal.
Advanced driving modes like Rally Mode optimize traction
and handling on loose surfaces, while intelligent
suspension systems adapt to varying road conditions.
The R3X is also equipped with Rivian’s latest driver
assistance technologies, enhancing both safety and
convenience during challenging drives. In the UAE’s
vibrant EV market, this model is expected to resonate
with tech-savvy consumers who value performance,
sustainability, and versatility.
As Rivian prepares for production in late 2026 or early
2027, the R3X promises an exhilarating driving experience
that harmonizes innovation with adventure—a
true game-changer in the compact EV segment. With its
blend of power, eco-friendliness, and practicality, the
R3X is set to redefine electric vehicles in the region.
Apr 2025 / 81

Under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI VI
UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF
IN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH WITH
ORGANISED BY BY
14 - 16 APRIL 2025 MARRAKECH
Defining Africa’s Future
with AI Impact
FEATURING
MOROCCO
AFRICA’S LARGEST TECH AND
STARTUP EVENT JUST GOT BIGGER
45,000
ATTENDEES
650+
GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES
435
MEDIA ATTENDEES
1,500
EXHIBITING & STARTUP
COMPANIES
130+
COUNTRIES REPRESENTED
660+
SPEAKERS
FEATURING THE LASTEST
SOLUTIONS & THOUGHT LEADERSHIP:
• AI EVERYTHING
Cloud x IOT x AI
• Cybersecurity
• Telecom / Network
Infrastructure
• Digital Cities
• Future Banking and
Finance
• GITEX Digi Health
• GITEX Agritech &
Food Security
• GITEX EdTech
• Sports Tech
• Sustainability
• Mobility
• Consumer Tech
• Startups
/gitexafrica
GET YOUR
TICKETS TO VISIT
LAST CHANCE
TO EXHIBIT

Under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council
15 - 17 APRIL 2025 | ADNEC CENTRE ABU DHABI, UAE
Towards Longevity, Redefining
Health And Well-being
Abu Dhabi Global Health Week 2025 brings together healthcare
leaders, policymakers, stakeholders and disruptors from around the
world, to shape the future of healthcare.
15,000
GLOBAL
ATTENDEES
1,900 150
CONFERENCE
DELEGATES
PIONEERING
EXHIBITORS
200
VISIONARY
SPEAKERS
90
PARTICIPATING
COUNTRIES
Book your stand:
Free visitor pass:
HOSTED BY
FOUNDATION PARTNER
GLOBAL HEALTH AND LONGEVITY CHAMPION
HEALTHCARE SUSTAINABILITY
PARTNER
HEALTHCARE
TRANSFORMATION PARTNER
AHEAD TOGETHER IN
HEALTH PARTNER
DRIVING INNOVATION
IN HEALTHCARE PARTNER
THE MEDICINES
PARTNER
AI INNOVATION
PARTNER
BEYOND HEALTH
PARTNER
AN INNOVATIVE GLOBAL
HEALTHCARE PARTNER
ACCESS TO
HEALTHCARE PARTNER
LONGEVITY
PARTNER
EMPOWERING SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
THROUGH HEALTH INNOVATION PARTNER
HEALTHCARE
ECOSYSTEM PARTNER
EDUCATION
PARTNER
HEALTHCARE SECTOR SPONSORS
adghw.com

12 - 13 May 2025
Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Explore insights with the brightest minds in FinTech
Featured speakers
H. E. GILLES
ROTH
Minister of Finance
Luxembourg
SUNDARARAMAN
RAMAMURTHY
Managing Director &
Chief Executive Officer
Bombay Stock Exchange
India
EUN-BO JEONG
Chairman &
Chief Executive Officer
Korea Exchange (KRX)
South Korea
Featured partners
TONY O. ELUMELU
Chairman of Heirs Holdings
& United Bank for Africa
Founder of Tony
Elumelu Foundation
Nigeria
MATTHEW KODER
President,
Global Corporate &
Investment Banking
Bank of America
USA
Premium banking partner Strategic banking partner Strategic partner
AI industry leader
Platinum sponsors
Scan QR code
Technology magazine partner
Visit website
Book tickets
dubaifintechsummit.com
#DubaiFintechSummit

Discount Your Invoices
and Receivables Now
APPLY ONLINE!
info@ifundfactoring.com
www.iFundFactoring.com
iFund