RIYADH, KSA: Held under the theme of “Collaboration to Drive Innovations in the Arab World,” Huawei Arab Innovation Day 2021 witnessed landmark keynotes and discussions led by ministerial and senior leaders from the Arab governments, regional and international ICT organizations, and high-level technology stakeholders from different verticals and industries.

The opening keynote was delivered by Catherine Chen, Senior VP, Director of the Board and President of Public Affairs and Communications Dept at Huawei, who noted that Huawei firmly believes in working together to create a better future for shared success, and that the company is keen to openly work with more partners to create a digital future of shared prosperity.

Participants at the Huawei Arab Innovation Day also included H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs, H.E. Arkan Shahab, Minister of Communications, Iraq, and H.E. Sameera Ebrahim Bin Rajb, The Special Envoy for the Royal Court of Bahrain.

Huawei Arab Innovation Day 2021 set the regional agenda for driving digital transformation and the adoption and application of advanced technologies in the Arab world while reiterating the need for nurturing local ICT talent and robust cybersecurity measures. Regional leaders also took the opportunity to shed light on the advantages of integrating technologies like 5G, Cloud and AI in the development of key industries.

Steven Yi, President for the Middle East at Huawei, said: “Digital technologies have ushered historical transformation and enabled the Arab leaders to diversify and strengthen economies. ICT technologies are at the core of many Arab states’ national agendas and visions, and we’re honored to provide an unparalleled platform that inspired collaboration to drive the next phase of socio-economic growth in the Arab world, driven by ICT innovations.” 

The day-long event focused on three key themes – digital transformation, ICT for education and talent development, and cybersecurity.

Alongside the event, Huawei also highlighted how it is leveraging cutting-edge capabilities, expertise, and technology to support developers. In its annual global competition, the Huawei HMS App Innovation Contest (Apps UP), developers are offered US$1 million in cash prizes – with various categories of choice to enter, such as the Best Social Impact App and Excellent Student Award.

The tech giant also announced the launch of the Huawei HMS Certificate Program which aims to boost developers’ employability and expand their digital skills.

Huawei Arab Innovation Day 2021 took place on the sidelines of GITEX Global in Dubai, UAE.