Latest news with #Al-Omar
Kuwait Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait in talks to chair committee to combat digital misinformation
Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) council representatives meet in Kuwait KUWAIT: Kuwait is in discussions to lead a multilateral committee to combat digital disinformation, aiming to unify Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) member states' efforts in countering fake news and safeguarding digital content integrity, Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar said following a key meeting of the DCO. DCO is a global multilateral body established in 2020 and headquartered in Saudi Arabia. It brings together governments, the private sector, international organizations, NGOs and civil society to enable more inclusive digital transformation and the growth of digital industries. Members include Bahrain, Bangladesh, Cyprus, Djibouti, The Gambia, Ghana, Greece, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Rwanda and Saudi Arabia. Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar and DCO Secretary-General Deemah Al-Yahya attend a DCO Council meeting chaired by Kuwait. Wednesday's meeting is the first of its kind since Kuwait assumed the rotating presidency of the DCO Council after the fourth General Assembly held in Jordan last February. 'This exceptional meeting represents a milestone in establishing coordinated efforts between member states to overcome digital challenges and promote integrity in digital content,' said Al-Omar. Al-Omar added that the adoption of Kuwait as the host country for the next DCO General Assembly underscores its leadership role in advancing regional and international digital cooperation. DCO Secretary-General Deemah Al-Yahya praised Kuwait's initiative to host the extraordinary meeting, saying it reflects Kuwait's serious commitment to joint digital action and its leadership in strengthening the organization's institutional structure. 'This meeting is a strategic step in advancing our shared digital agenda and expanding the organization's impact in supporting emerging digital economies,' Al-Yahya said. During her visit to Kuwait, Al-Yahya, who is also Member of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property, and her accompanying delegation met with His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of Kuwait, at Bayan Palace. The meeting was attended by Minister Al-Omar, and Head of the Prime Minister's Diwan, Abdulaziz Dakhil Al-Dakhil. — Agencies
Arab Times
4 days ago
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait builds secure digital foundation for government services with Cloud technology
KUWAIT CITY, May 29: Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar affirmed on Thursday that Kuwait's partnership with Google Cloud will enhance digital government efficiency, accelerate service automation, and improve public service quality. Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) following a meeting with Chris Lindsay, Google Cloud's Vice President of Engineering for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Al-Omar said the visit reflects the ministry's efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships with global tech leaders and expand the automation of government services. He noted that the partnership marks a key milestone in Kuwait's national roadmap for digital transformation. 'We aim to build a secure, integrated technical environment that allows government agencies to deliver efficient services through flexible cloud infrastructure and advanced analytics, ensuring optimal data use and improved information security,' he said. Al-Omar explained that the agreement enables key ministries, particularly Finance and Justice, to upgrade their systems using advanced cloud platforms. This shift is expected to enhance government performance, streamline procedures, and support data-driven decision-making. He added that the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology is working closely with key government entities to automate services and integrate systems by leveraging Google Cloud's solutions. This effort supports a broader vision of building a modern digital infrastructure, developing national skills, and delivering secure and smart government services. The Google Cloud delegation also met Wednesday with Minister of Finance and Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment, Eng. Noura Al-Fassam. Discussions focused on transitioning financial systems to a secure cloud environment, enhancing operational efficiency, data management, transparency, and policy-making in line with the New Kuwait 2035 Vision. Additionally, the delegation met with Ministry of Justice officials to explore ways of using cloud technology to strengthen digital infrastructure and enhance judicial systems. The aim is to simplify legal procedures, speed up services, and boost the efficiency of judicial operations.
Business Recorder
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Saudia launches transformative expansion of Hajj operations
KARACHI: Saudia Airlines has announced a transformative expansion of its Hajj operations, marking what the company calls a 'new era' in pilgrimage travel that extends far beyond traditional air transportation services. For the Hajj 2025 season, scheduled for June 4-9 pending lunar observations, the Saudi national flag carrier is positioning itself as a comprehensive service partner rather than merely an airline, introducing revolutionary products and services designed to enhance the spiritual journey for millions of pilgrims worldwide. The airline has allocated over one million seats across its modern fleet of 158 aircraft, targeting a market share of up to 35% while serving pilgrims from more than 100 global destinations. The operation will mobilize over 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians across a 74-day operational window. 'Hajj remains one of our top national priorities,' said H.E. Engr Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia. 'This year, we are proud to not only manage air operations at full capacity but to also extend our role to become a direct service provider to pilgrims.' The airline is investing over SAR 100 million (approximately USD 26.7 million) in infrastructure and services across Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites, creating what Al-Omar describes as 'thoughtfully curated service packages' that will redefine the concept of Hajj service delivery. Perhaps the most striking innovation is Saudia's introduction of 'The Coolest Ihram' — the world's first high-tech Ihram garment, unveiled on World Creativity and Innovation Day. Developed in collaboration with design firm Landor and textile technology company brrr, the garment represents a significant advancement in pilgrim comfort and safety. The revolutionary Ihram incorporates patented cooling minerals, active wicking technology, and rapid-drying capabilities that can reduce skin temperature by up to 2°C (3.6°F). The garment also provides UPF 50+ sun protection while maintaining full compliance with Islamic requirements for both men and women. The product will be available to Saudia passengers beginning in June 2025. This innovation addresses a critical need, as pilgrims often face extreme heat conditions during the Hajj, with temperatures in Saudi Arabia frequently exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the pilgrimage season. Saudia's transformation extends well beyond transportation. The airline is establishing dedicated rest areas, restaurants, and coffee lounges inspired by its premium AlFursan airport lounges at the holy sites. These facilities will be staffed by multilingual personnel to ensure seamless communication with the diverse international pilgrim population. The enhanced service portfolio includes specialized accommodation arrangements, diverse halal meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and educational programs developed in collaboration with Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Kuwait Times
19-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait accelerates digital transformation with strategic partnership with Microsoft
Kuwait accelerates digital transformation with strategic partnership with Microsoft Minister emphasizes on establishing a comprehensive digital infrastructure KUWAIT: Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar reaffirmed on Monday the government's commitment to advancing digital transformation and fostering innovation across public services, through the strategic partnership with global technology giant Microsoft. Speaking during a high-level meeting with Microsoft Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Judson Bezek Althoff, Al-Omar emphasized Kuwait's steady progress towards establishing a comprehensive digital infrastructure. He highlighted the country's focus on improving the quality of government services, attracting investments, and cultivating an innovation-driven environment. Al-Omar noted that a key outcome of the partnership is the empowerment of national talent through specialized training programs in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and emerging technologies. These efforts, he said, will enhance the role of Kuwaiti professionals in leading the country's shift towards a competitive and sustainable digital economy. Acting Chairman of the Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) Sheikh Athbi Jaber Al-Sabah echoed these sentiments, describing the launch of the AI-powered data centers project, in collaboration with Microsoft, as a cornerstone of Kuwait's digital future. He underscored CITRA's role in facilitating coordination between government entities and global partners, particularly Microsoft, to establish and operate cutting-edge data centers. These centers, Sheikh Athbi said, will support national ambitions in digital transformation by offering high-capacity computing infrastructure essential for AI-based services. Microsoft's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Judson Bezek-Althoff, delivers a video presentation at the meeting. Acting Director General of KUNA Mohammad Al-Mannai is pictured with Deputy Head of the Financial Investigation Unit Yousef Al-Omar and Deputy CEO of Project Management at Kuwait Oil Company Fahad Al-Kharqawi during the meeting. A view of the attendees during the meeting of Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar with the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Microsoft. The Authority, he added, has already allocated suitable lands and coordinated with various ministries and service institutions to ensure the availability of necessary infrastructure, including power, roads, telecommunications and technical expertise. The new data centers, built using advanced liquid cooling technologies and next-generation processors, are expected to be among the most efficient in the region. Sheikh Athbi affirmed CITRA's ongoing role as a bridge for coordination and a key enabler of national digital initiatives, positioning Kuwait as a regional leader in artificial intelligence and smart governance. During the meeting, Bezek Althoff delivered a presentation outlining the major components of the agreement and explored opportunities for further cooperation. The presentation focused on accelerating AI investment, expanding data center capabilities and integrating Microsoft Copilot solutions into government operations. Discussions also addressed the customization of AI solutions to align with Kuwait's digital landscape, the integration of cybersecurity with innovation strategies, and the development of training programs to enhance the readiness of government teams in managing digital transformation. The meeting was attended by several senior government officials and executive leaders. It marks a continuation of the strategic partnership agreement signed between the Government of Kuwait and Microsoft in March and is part of a broader framework to implement data center projects, establish centers of excellence and innovation, and incorporate advanced digital tools to improve government performance and service delivery. — KUNA
Kuwait Times
15-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait, Google eye closer tech partnership
KUWAIT: Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar and Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet Inc. and its subsidiary Google, pose for a photo with officials. — KUNA KUWAIT: Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar met Wednesday with Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet Inc and its subsidiary Google, to discuss ways to strengthen their strategic partnership. According to a statement by the Ministry of Communications to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Thursday, the meeting, held during Porat's visit to the country, explored opportunities for cooperation in technology and digital investment. It aimed to enhance the strategic partnership in a way that supports accelerating digital integration within government agencies, in line with the ministry's efforts to contribute to achieving Kuwait's development vision, 'New Kuwait 2035.' Earlier this week, Al-Omar had affirmed the ministry's commitment to expanding strategic partnerships with global tech companies, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity and the Internet of Things (IoT), as part of Kuwait's broader vision to become a leading digital hub in the region. Speaking on the sidelines of the 20th Arab Media Forum, Al-Omar noted that the ministry continues to build strong collaborations with major international firms like Google Cloud and Microsoft, aiming to accelerate digital transformation across government entities. He explained that these partnerships include training and certification programs for national talent, providing young Kuwaitis with professional credentials in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies. The minister emphasized that the goal is to transform Kuwait into a regional center for the digital economy by fostering innovation and promoting entrepreneurship in the tech sector. This involves strengthening collaboration with universities, the private sector, and international organizations to create an integrated ecosystem that supports innovation and accelerates knowledge transfer. On the infrastructure front, Al-Omar stated that the ministry is actively working on developing the telecommunications sector in line with the 'New Kuwait 2035' vision, through the expansion of 5G technology and the optical fiber network. These strategic investments pave the way for future technologies such as IoT, advanced computing, and big data. He also highlighted Kuwait's continued efforts, represented by the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA), to diversify international internet connectivity routes through advanced land and sea cables. These initiatives aim to provide high reliability and security standards, positioning Kuwait as a key data exchange hub between the region and the world. — KUNA
