AMMAN — Under the esteemed patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah, the highly anticipated 10th Middle East and North Africa ICT Forum is set to commence on Wednesday at the breathtaking Dead Sea area, a location renowned for its unique landscape and historical significance.
Organised meticulously by the Information and Communications Technology Association (int@j), in strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship alongside the Ministry of Investment, this two-day forum is projected to unite around 3,000 participants hailing from 40 countries. This diverse assembly will include influential figures and leading experts from Jordan and the broader international community.
The forum’s agenda boasts 86 high-profile speakers, consisting of prominent policymakers and global experts. They will engage in discussions addressing critical issues such as international ICT cooperation, global competition, innovation, business solutions, and the evolution of digital services, according to reports from the Jordan News Agency, Petra.
Throughout the event, an array of interactive sessions will convene industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, providing a platform to explore emerging trends and the multifaceted challenges facing the region’s technology sector.
The forum will also delve into the pivotal role of telecommunications infrastructure in catalyzing digital transformation across the MENA region, covering advanced topics such as 5G technology, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Additional areas of focus include the advancements in smart cities and sectors like FinTech, MedTech, and EdTech.
Discussions will illuminate how these transformative technologies are driving digital innovation, fortifying business growth throughout the region while showcasing how substantial corporations are propelling innovation by investing in startups. They will leverage AI, IoT, and big data to design sustainable, smart cities that enhance the quality of life for their residents.
This year’s forum will spotlight the “Arab Startup Village,” where over 100 innovative startups will showcase their ground-breaking products and technologies to a select audience of investors and decision-makers, fostering essential connections within the industry.
A series of one-on-one meetings is curated to afford startups the invaluable opportunity to pitch their pioneering ideas directly to leading regional investors, potentially paving the way for substantial investment and collaboration.
Discussions will also focus on how AI can drive economic growth and innovation within the region while addressing pressing challenges related to digital transformation initiatives.
For the first time, the forum will introduce the prestigious ICT Innovation Awards, aimed at recognising excellence in four distinguished categories. These categories include The Impact Award for companies that make a lasting, positive difference in society and the Technology and Innovation Award for pioneering technology solutions that push the industry’s boundaries.
The other two categories include the Industry Award for companies exemplifying excellence in the application of technology to business practices and the International Award for companies whose contributions on a global scale have elicited significant international impact.
What are the key benefits of attending the Middle East and North Africa ICT Forum for industry professionals?
**Interview with Dr. Amina Farah, ICT Expert and Forum Speaker**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Farah. The 10th Middle East and North Africa ICT Forum is just around the corner, and it has generated significant buzz. What are your expectations for this year’s event?
**Dr. Farah:** Thank you for having me! This forum is pivotal for the ICT landscape in the region. With 3,000 participants from 40 countries, I expect vibrant discussions that foster international cooperation and innovation. It’s an excellent opportunity for knowledge exchange and networking among key stakeholders.
**Editor:** The agenda features 86 high-profile speakers discussing topics like global competition and innovation. Which topics are you most eager to hear about?
**Dr. Farah:** I’m particularly interested in the discussions around 5G technology and artificial intelligence. These areas are crucial for advancing our digital infrastructure and enhancing many sectors, from smart cities to healthcare. Additionally, the focus on cybersecurity is timely and necessary, given the rising number of cyber threats.
**Editor:** Interactive sessions aimed at addressing challenges in the technology sector will also be a highlight. Could you elaborate on why these sessions are essential?
**Dr. Farah:** Absolutely. Interactive sessions allow for a more dynamic exchange of ideas. They enable industry leaders and innovators to collaboratively brainstorm solutions to the multifaceted challenges we face, including regulatory hurdles, digital literacy, and resource allocation. Practical dialogue often leads to actionable strategies.
**Editor:** The forum is backed by significant entities such as the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship. How important is government involvement in such events?
**Dr. Farah:** Government involvement is critical. Their support not only legitimizes the forum but also underscores their commitment to fostering a robust digital economy. When policymakers and industry leaders engage in dialogue, it creates an ecosystem conducive to growth and innovation. It also demonstrates a shared vision for the future of the region’s ICT landscape.
**Editor:** As we head into the forum, what message do you hope attendees take away from the discussions?
**Dr. Farah:** I hope attendees leave with a renewed sense of collaboration. The challenges in our sector are vast, but they can be overcome through partnerships and knowledge sharing. We must leverage our collective expertise to drive digital transformation across the MENA region. It’s an exciting time, and together we can unlock immense potential.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Farah, for sharing your insights. We look forward to hearing more from you at the forum.
**Dr. Farah:** Thank you! I’m excited about the event and the discussions to come.
