As the Middle East accelerates its digital transformation, MDS SI, a prominent digital system integrator with a presence in 13 countries and 20 major cities, is positioning itself as a pivotal enabler for businesses navigating this technological shift. With over two decades of dominance in the UAE’s IT services sector and a strong foothold in Saudi Arabia’s competitive market, MDS SI attributes its sustained success to a customer-centric approach, innovation, and consistent value delivery. The company’s President, Sami Abi Esber, emphasized that their focus on customer satisfaction and significant investments in talent and technology have been instrumental in maintaining their leadership. MDS SI’s strategy revolves around optimizing existing operations and enabling new digital business models, leveraging AI-powered solutions and predictive IoT systems to unlock measurable value for clients. Central to their approach is the proprietary “AI Path to Value” methodology, supported by a team of over 700 specialists, ensuring alignment with key business drivers such as revenue growth, cost efficiency, and ESG goals. The company has successfully implemented over 80 AI use cases, demonstrating the practical impact of artificial intelligence. MDS SI also prioritizes ethical considerations, embedding privacy and security into every AI engagement from the outset. In the realm of cybersecurity, the company offers robust defenses, including sovereign AI environments and cloud-based solutions, addressing threats at every level. Building on its legacy as the region’s first public cloud provider through its affiliate eHosting DataFort, MDS SI continues to lead in hybrid and multi-cloud solutions, offering services across platforms like Azure, AWS, GCP, and HPE GreenLake. Recognizing the tech talent gap, the company invests in workforce development through continuous training, certifications, and collaborations with governments and academia. Looking ahead, MDS SI believes the next phase of digital transformation will be defined by tangible outcomes, aligning innovation with measurable business results. The company is also expanding its regional presence through strategic acquisitions, such as Egypt-based cybersecurity firm SmplID and AIdeology, an NVIDIA Elite Solution Provider, while investing in startups focused on smart cities and advanced security technologies.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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What more do we know about the collapsed China spy case?
The controversy surrounding the collapse of a high-profile case involving two men accused of spying for China continues to escalate, placing the government under intense scrutiny. The opposition has seized upon the issue, further fueling the debate. The government now finds itself in a precarious position regarding the release of witness statements related to the case. Initially, it was suggested that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) was blocking their release, but the CPS has since clarified that it was not responsible, leaving the government with little choice but to publish the documents. During Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starmer confirmed that the government would indeed release the statements. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reviewed the documents for the first time this morning, marking an unusual start to the weekly session. The pledge to publish the statements was made in a statement rather than in response to questions from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, catching her off guard. However, questions remain about whether the release of these statements will significantly alter the narrative. Unless the documents reveal drastically new information, the core allegation—that the government may have withheld evidence rather than tampered with it—remains unchanged. The government maintains its innocence, arguing that the publication of the statements may not provide further clarity. The documents could, however, increase pressure on the CPS rather than politicians. The Conservatives have been relentless in their pursuit of answers, but the government has countered by blaming the opposition’s stance on China and existing legislation. The case involves Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, both accused of spying for China. Following PMQs, lengthy briefings were held with the prime minister’s team and Badenoch’s team, lasting over an hour. The final submission of evidence from the deputy national security adviser was made on August 4, and a meeting on September 1 discussed the handling of the case in relation to China. The government insists that the meeting did not delve into the evidence, but the Conservatives are demanding the publication of the meeting minutes. The prime minister was informed of the case’s collapse two days before it occurred, though the source of this information remains undisclosed. This complex and ongoing saga highlights the intricate details and prolonged scrutiny the government faces.
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Israel to reopen Gaza’s Rafah crossing on October 15
In a significant development, Israel has announced the reopening of Gaza’s Rafah crossing on October 15, allowing humanitarian aid to flow into the war-torn Palestinian territory from Egypt. The decision, reported by Israeli public broadcaster KAN, comes as Gaza grapples with a severe humanitarian crisis following two years of conflict. The United Nations and various aid organizations have long advocated for the reopening of this crucial crossing to address the dire situation. According to KAN, 600 trucks of humanitarian aid, coordinated by the UN, international organizations, the private sector, and donor countries, will be dispatched to Gaza on Wednesday. The reopening follows a ceasefire agreement brokered by former US President Donald Trump, which included the release of hostages held by Hamas. While Hamas has released all 20 living hostages, it has yet to return the remains of all 28 deceased hostages. Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has threatened to halt aid if Hamas fails to return the remaining bodies. The decision to reopen Rafah was reportedly influenced by Hamas’s intention to return four more bodies, though this has not been confirmed by the militant group. The UN had previously declared famine in Gaza in August, a claim Israel disputes.
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US revokes 6 visas over social media comments on Charlie Kirk
In a significant move reflecting heightened political tensions, the U.S. State Department announced on Tuesday the revocation of visas for six foreigners due to their social media comments regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The department emphasized, ‘The United States has no obligation to host foreigners who wish death on Americans,’ in a statement posted on X. This decision coincided with President Donald Trump posthumously awarding Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, during a ceremony in the Rose Garden. The event marked what would have been Kirk’s 32nd birthday. Trump praised Kirk as a ‘fearless warrior for liberty’ and a leader who galvanized the younger generation. Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University, an incident that reignited debates over political violence in the U.S. His death has become a rallying point for Trump, who has used it to energize his base and push for measures against what he terms ‘radical left extremism.’ The Trump administration has launched a broad crackdown on left-wing organizations, deploying federal agencies like the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and IRS to investigate groups accused of funding political violence. However, experts argue that political violence is bipartisan, with historically more attacks inspired by right-wing ideology. Officials have found no evidence linking Kirk’s shooter to any organized group. The ceremony drew prominent Republican figures, including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and several U.S. Senators. Kirk, a polarizing figure in conservative politics, played a key role in mobilizing young voters for Trump’s 2024 campaign. While supporters hailed him as a champion of free speech, critics accused him of mainstreaming extremist views. Since his death, Trump has called Kirk a ‘martyr for American freedom’ and vowed to continue his work. In September, both the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate approved resolutions declaring October 14 a ‘National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk.’ Trump also signed a proclamation on Tuesday officially marking the date.
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McIlroy sets sights on one day becoming Ryder Cup captain ahead of India debut
Rory McIlroy, the world No. 2 golfer and current Masters champion, has expressed his ambition to one day captain the European Ryder Cup team, though he believes this role is still a decade away. Speaking in New Delhi during his first tournament in India, McIlroy reflected on his recent success in helping Europe retain the Ryder Cup by defeating the United States in New York last month. The 36-year-old Northern Irishman, who has participated in the last eight Ryder Cups, emphasized his desire to lead the team in the mid-2030s, after continuing to play at the highest level for several more years. McIlroy praised past captains like Paul McGinley and Luke Donald, under whom he has played, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from their leadership. However, he acknowledged the challenges of the role, particularly in light of the intense atmosphere and occasional hostility from American spectators during the recent Ryder Cup. McIlroy lamented that the focus on the event’s controversies overshadowed Europe’s historic victory as the first team to win an away Ryder Cup since 2012. He urged fans to remember the team’s exceptional performance and the pride he felt in being part of such a successful campaign. Beyond the Ryder Cup, McIlroy is expanding his international presence, with upcoming tournaments in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the Australian Open. He expressed enthusiasm for playing in new locations and connecting with diverse audiences, though he admitted disappointment at missing the chance to attend a cricket match during his visit to India, a sport he passionately follows.
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‘Feared for my life’: UAE expat recounts captivity in Israeli prison after Gaza flotilla seizure
Dr. Zaheera Soomar, a South African activist and Sharjah-based mother of three, has returned to the UAE after a six-day detention by the Israeli army. Soomar was part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian maritime mission aimed at breaking Gaza’s blockade by delivering humanitarian aid. The flotilla was intercepted by Israeli naval forces in early October, leading to the arrest of its participants. Soomar recounted her ordeal, describing crowded cells, aggressive handling by guards, and moments where she feared for her life. Despite the trauma, she remains resolute in her commitment to Palestinian justice and freedom. Soomar was deported to South Africa on Monday and arrived in the UAE on Tuesday morning. She expressed concerns about the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, brokered by former US President Donald J. Trump, citing Israel’s continued restrictions on aid to Gaza. Soomar, a business executive and professor, has been advocating for Palestinian rights for over a decade, drawing parallels to her experiences growing up in apartheid South Africa. Her participation in the flotilla underscores her dedication to the cause, despite the personal risks involved.
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Cambodia urges a fair process as US and UK pursue Prince Group’s Chen Zhi in a global scam case
The Cambodian government has expressed its expectation that the United States and the United Kingdom provide substantial evidence in their pursuit of Prince Holding Group and its Chairman, Chen Zhi. This follows coordinated sanctions imposed by both nations, accusing the conglomerate of orchestrating extensive online scams and exploiting forced labor. Touch Sokhak, spokesperson for Cambodia’s Interior Ministry, emphasized that Prince Holding Group has complied with all legal requirements and has been treated equally alongside other major investors in the country. He also clarified that Chen’s Cambodian citizenship was granted lawfully. While Cambodia has pledged cooperation if presented with formal evidence, Sokhak reiterated that the government does not currently accuse the group or its chairman of any wrongdoing. The U.S. Treasury Department and the U.K. Foreign Office announced joint sanctions on Tuesday, alleging that Chen’s network operates as a transnational criminal enterprise, defrauding global victims and exploiting trafficked workers across Southeast Asia. U.S. authorities have seized over $14 billion in bitcoin and charged Chen with wire fraud and money laundering conspiracies. British authorities have frozen Chen’s assets, including luxury properties in London. Experts warn that dismantling such networks requires targeting their online infrastructure to prevent rebranding and continued operations. Chen remains at large and faces up to 40 years in prison if convicted in the U.S. Prince Holding Group has denied involvement in scam operations and has not publicly addressed the latest allegations. Independent research highlights Cambodia’s role as a hub for online scams and money laundering, with over 200 documented scam centers in the country. Cambodia has pledged full cooperation with international partners, provided there is sufficient evidence.
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Gold prices in Dubai: Third record high in three days this week at Dh503 per gram
Gold prices in Dubai have soared to unprecedented levels for the third consecutive day this week, with 24K gold reaching a new all-time high of Dh503.5 per gram on Wednesday. This surpasses the previous record of Dh502.75 set on Tuesday, according to data from the Dubai Jewellery Group. Other variants, including 22K, 21K, and 18K, also achieved record highs, trading at Dh466.25, Dh447.0, and Dh383.25 per gram, respectively. Globally, spot gold was priced at $4,188 per ounce at 9:10 am UAE time. Market analysts attribute this surge to a combination of safe-haven demand, escalating US-China trade tensions, and expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts. Frank Walbaum, a market analyst at Naga, noted that gold briefly surpassed $4,190 per ounce on Tuesday before a slight retreat as investors locked in profits. He highlighted that geopolitical risks, including US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats and Beijing’s retaliatory measures, have intensified market uncertainty. Additionally, the ongoing US government shutdown has further weighed on economic activity, bolstering gold’s appeal. Walbaum also mentioned that markets are anticipating 25-basis-point rate cuts in October and December, supported by Fed officials’ concerns over labour market risks. While tensions in Eastern Europe remain a factor, progress in the Middle East could potentially temper gold demand. This sustained rally underscores gold’s enduring role as a hedge against global economic and geopolitical instability.
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Hong Kong lawmakers pass bill to regulate ride-hailing services like Uber
Hong Kong has taken a significant step toward regulating its ride-hailing industry with the passage of a new bill on Wednesday. The legislation mandates that platforms like Uber, along with their vehicles and drivers, must obtain licenses to operate legally. This move comes after years of tension between the city’s taxi industry and online ride-hailing services. The first licensed platforms are expected to launch by late 2026 at the earliest. Under the new rules, Hong Kong’s transport commissioner will evaluate applicants based on their experience, financial capacity, and planned investments in the region. Licensed companies must ensure their services are ‘proper and efficient’ and that all vehicles and drivers on their platforms hold valid permits. Drivers must meet specific criteria, including being at least 21 years old, holding a private car driving license for at least one year, and having no serious traffic convictions within the past five years. Additionally, they must pass a test and complete a pre-service course. The bill represents a pivotal moment in the development of ride-hailing services in Hong Kong, where private vehicles have been prohibited from offering paid services without a permit. Uber Hong Kong welcomed the decision, calling it a ‘significant milestone’ in integrating ride-sharing into the city’s transport system. However, the legislation also imposes strict penalties for non-compliance, including fines of up to 1 million Hong Kong dollars (approximately $128,600) and a maximum jail term of one year for unlicensed operators. The government plans to introduce a cap on the number of ride-hailing vehicles, with details to be outlined in subsidiary legislation next year. This framework aims to balance the interests of traditional taxi companies and the growing demand for modern, convenient transportation options.
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How Promote Giving, a new investment model, will raise millions for charities
Joel Holsinger, an investment manager and partner at Ares Management Corp., has launched Promote Giving, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at encouraging investment managers to integrate charitable donations into their business models. This initiative stems from Holsinger’s transformative experience during a 2019 visit to Dharavi, India’s largest slum, where he witnessed the impact of a tuberculosis prevention program hindered by funding shortages. Inspired to bridge the gap between profit and purpose, Holsinger created the Pathfinder family of funds, which donates at least 5% of performance fees to charities. Since its inception, the initiative has raised over $10 billion in investments and pledged more than $40 million to charitable causes. Promote Giving, launched with participation from nine firms including Ares Management, Pantheon, and Pretium, represents $35 billion in assets and could generate up to $250 million in donations over the next decade. Unlike ESG or impact investing, Promote Giving focuses on maximizing financial returns while allocating a portion of management fees to charities after investors receive their promised returns. This model addresses the funding challenges faced by nonprofits, particularly in the wake of cuts to U.S. foreign aid and the dismantling of USAID. Kammerle Schneider of PATH and Sal Khan of Khan Academy have praised the initiative for its potential to provide stable, long-term funding for critical global health and education programs. Holsinger envisions Promote Growing into a movement akin to the Giving Pledge, encouraging industries to embed philanthropy into their core operations. Research from Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose supports this approach, showing that companies with purpose-driven missions achieve higher revenue growth and employee engagement. Holsinger believes that by channeling more capital to nonprofits, Promote Giving can help solve global challenges that lack not solutions but funding.