Given these rapid developments, it’s no surprise that people across the Middle East and other regions are increasingly looking for AI-proof their future. If you count yourself among them, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ve thoroughly researched and compiled a list of career opportunities (presented in no particular order) that are likely to thrive in the Middle East despite the ongoing AI revolution.

Summary Of AI-Proof Career Opportunities:

Artificial Intelligence Specialists

Average Base Annual Salary (Source): AED 171,000

It’s probably no surprise that one of the most career opportunities in the Middle East lies in the heart of the AI industry itself. The AI boom has naturally led to a surge in demand for professionals who have a deep understanding of the technology and can develop, implement, and troubleshoot AI systems.

In the United Arab Emirates, the number of AI workers quadrupled to 120,000 from 2021 to 2023, according to Al Olama, the UAE’s AI Minister, as the country pushes forward with its ambitious goal of becoming a global AI hub by 2031. The UAE is investing heavily in AI education and research, establishing dedicated AI universities and research centers to nurture local talent and attract international experts.

To become an AI specialist, you need to have a strong foundation in computer science, mathematics, and statistics. That’s why most AI specialists hold at least a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields, although many also pursue advanced degrees such as a master’s or Ph.D. to deepen their expertise and stay at the forefront of the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Maintenance Technicians

 Average Base Annual Salary (Source): AED 48,000

The impact of AI extends far beyond the digital realm, as advanced robotics and intelligent machines are poised to revolutionize the physical world. Multiple companies, including Boston Dynamics, Tesla, and Figure AI, are working on developing general-purpose humanoid robots capable of performing a wide range of tasks guided by advanced AI reasoning.

As these sophisticated machines become more prevalent, they are expected to take over an increasing number of jobs in warehouses, factories, and hazardous environments. While this may lead to the displacement of some human workers, it also creates a growing demand for skilled maintenance technicians who can keep these complex systems running smoothly.

To succeed in this field, aspiring maintenance technicians should consider pursuing vocational training or a degree in mechatronics, robotics, or a related field. Hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or industry collaborations can also be invaluable in developing the practical skills needed to excel in this role.

Doctors

 Average Base Annual Salary (Source): AED 252,000

In the Middle East, countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE have shown a particularly strong willingness to embrace AI in healthcare, with two-thirds of their populations open to the idea of replacing doctors with robots, compared to just 55% across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa as a whole, according to a PwC study (PDF).

However, despite the rapid advancements in AI technology, doctors are unlikely to be made obsolete anytime soon. Instead, AI will become an invaluable tool that complements and enhances the expertise of medical professionals, enabling them to provide better care to their patients.

AI is already being used in various healthcare applications, from accelerating the development of new cures, enhancing disease detection, and improving patient outcomes. These developments have not gone unnoticed by UAE leaders, with the country’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 placing significant emphasis on the healthcare field and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) launching the UAE health sector’s first Centre of Excellence (COE) for AI in October 2023.

Registered Nurses

 Average Base Annual Salary (Source): AED 84,000

Just like doctors, registered nurses are unlikely to be replaced by AI anytime soon, despite the development of robot nurses. The human touch, care, and empathy provided by nurses are invaluable, especially during times of sickness and vulnerability.

In fact, the demand for registered nurses in the Middle East is growing rapidly due to the region’s expanding population and the increasing healthcare needs of an aging demographic.

A recent report on the impact of AI on the Middle Eastern healthcare landscape predicts that the UAE will require an additional 15,000 nurses and allied health professionals in Abu Dhabi and 11,000 nurses in Dubai by 2030 to keep pace with the country’s healthcare needs. As a result, registered nurses can expect ample job opportunities in the Middle East, with AI serving as a tool to enhance their work rather than replace them.

Social Workers

 Average Base Annual Salary (Source): AED 85,000

The role of social workers is expected to remain essential and largely unaffected by automation. Social workers provide crucial support, guidance, and advocacy for individuals, families, and communities facing challenging circumstances, and the demand for their services is growing in the Middle East.

According to a recent statistic, the revenue of the human health and social work activities industry in the UAE is projected to reach approximately 5.9 billion U.S. dollars by 2024. This growth indicates a promising future for social workers in the region, as their skills and expertise will be increasingly sought after to address the diverse needs of the population.

For example, social workers have career opportunities in special needs centers, schools, geriatric and psychiatric hospitals, and other social service organizations. Depending on the specific role, such as social therapist, school counselor, or special needs teacher, obtaining a license may be required.

Elementary And High School Teachers

 Average Base Annual Salary (Source): AED 83,000 – 85,000

While AI is set to play a significant role in the education sector, it’s extremely unlikely to replace teachers entirely. Instead, AI will augment and support the work of educators.

According to the World Economic Forum, AI can assist teachers by automating administrative tasks, such as grading and record-keeping, allowing them to focus more on personalized interactions with students and enhancing the overall quality of education. Another exciting application of AI in education is the personalization of learning content and experiences. AI-powered systems can adapt to individual students’ needs, learning styles, and abilities, providing tailored support and resources to optimize their learning outcomes.

This creates new opportunities for tech-savvy teachers and those willing to embrace AI in their teaching methods. A teacher who understands modern AI tools and knows how to incorporate them effectively into their lesson plans will be highly sought after.

Emergency Responders

 Average Base Annual Salary (Source): AED 100,000

The jobs of emergency responders, including firefighters, paramedics, and police officers, are very safe from AI automation. The critical, hands-on nature of their work, which often requires split-second decision-making, empathy, and adaptability in unpredictable situations, guarantees that human responders will remain essential even in the future.

However, AI has the potential to revolutionize emergency response by assisting responders in various ways. Companies like Omdena are pioneering AI solutions to improve emergency response management, preparedness, and response.

For example, Omdena’s AI models analyze historical data, weather patterns, and other factors to predict the likelihood of emergencies such as floods, wildfires, and earthquakes. They also help optimize resource allocation and coordinate the response of different agencies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of disaster relief operations.

Skilled Tradespeople

 Average Base Annual Salary (Source): AED 60,000

In the short term, skilled tradespeople can rest easy knowing that AI won’t be fixing leaky toilets, unclogging drains, or rewiring electrical panels anytime soon. The complex problem-solving skills and dexterity required for these tasks are still beyond the capabilities of current AI systems.

However, the medium and long-term outlook for trades in the Middle East is more complicated. As AI disrupts various industries, many people are considering transitioning to trades as a safer career option. This influx of new workers could potentially increase competition and put downward pressure on wages, especially for entry-level positions.

Moreover, in wealthier parts of the Middle East, the demand for skilled tradespeople is often met by workers from South Asia who are willing to accept lower wages. Despite these challenges, established tradespeople with a strong reputation and a loyal customer base can still thrive in the AI era by providing high-quality work and excellent customer service.

Conclusion

Even though the AI revolution is expected to disrupt the entire job market and make many traditional career paths obsolete, there are still plenty of work opportunities in the Middle East remain resilient against automation. Generally, the most AI-proof career opportunities are those that either directly contribute to the development and implementation of AI technologies or require uniquely human skills such as empathy, creativity, and critical thinking.

The post The Most AI-Proof Career Opportunities In The Middle East appeared first on Tech Magazine.

We’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the top free AI chatbots available in the Middle East. Whether you’re looking for a personal assistant to help you manage your daily tasks or a customer service chatbot to improve your business operations, we’ve got you covered.

#1- ChatGPT

Availability: Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen
Arabic Input: Yes
Arabic Output: Yes

Developed by OpenAI, one of the most talked-about companies in the world today, ChatGPT has brought the transformative power of large language models to the masses since its release in November 2022. Even though it’s not OpenAI’s first chatbot, ChatGPT has captured the imagination of users worldwide with its ability to engage in natural language conversations and assist with a wide range of tasks.

Even in its free version, ChatGPT offers plenty of capabilities for users to enjoy, including full access to GPT-3.5 and limited access to GPT-4o, OpenAI’s latest and most advanced multilingual, multimodal model. At the time of writing this article, GPT-4o is the best-rated model in existence, so the fact that you can use it for free for a limited number of times within a three-hour window is pretty amazing.

Earlier this year, OpenAI introduced voice chat capabilities to free users, meaning if you’ve ever wanted to interact with an AI using voice commands, now you can do so without any cost. Voice interactions with ChatGPT offer a more intuitive and natural way of communication, bridging the gap between human and machine interaction, and then come in handy when driving, cooking, and doing other activities that make it inconvenient or impossible to type.

Pros:

• The best-rated AI chatbot today
• Can provide accurate and helpful responses to a wide range of questions
• Free access to a robust set of features
• It’s easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface

Cons:

• Usage limits

#2- Mistral AI

Availability: Everywhere
Arabic Input: Yes
Arabic Output: Yes

Founded in April 2023 by a team of former employees from Meta Platforms and Google DeepMind, Mistral AI has quickly positioned itself as a significant player in the realm of artificial intelligence. As a French company dedicated to democratizing AI technology, Mistral AI focuses on developing open-source large language models accessible through its web-based chat interface.

The models vary in scale and specialization — from heavy-duty processing with the Large model, known for its top reasoning capacities, to the Small model, designed for fast and cost-effective interactions. They also offer Codestral, tailored specifically for coding purposes, and Next, a prototype model trained for conciseness and efficiency.

Mistral AI currently doesn’t offer any paid tier, which means that free users have access to everything the company offers. Usage limits do exist, but they are dynamically adjusted based on demand, so you may not even hit them.

Pros:

• Access to a range of large language models
• No paid tier, so free users have access to everything
• It’s easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface

Cons:

• Usage limits
• Relatively new player in the AI market

#3- Google Gemini

Availability: Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen
Arabic Input: Yes
Arabic Output: Yes

Previously known as Bard, Google Gemini is a powerful large language model developed by Google AI. With the free version of Google Gemini, users have access to the 1.0 Pro model, which integrates seamlessly with Google apps that you already know and use, such as Gmail, Calendar, and Docs. This makes it an excellent choice for those who rely heavily on Google products for their daily tasks.

However, compared with GPT-4o and Mistral’s Large model, the free version of Gemini is much worse at following instructions closely. On the other hand, Gemini offers a significant advantage in terms of speed. Additionally, Google doesn’t seem to be actively enforcing usage limits on the free tier, so you can use it as much as you want without worrying about hitting a usage cap.

Pros:

• Integrates with Google apps
• Fast and no real usage limits
• It’s easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface

Cons:

• Doesn’t follow detailed instructions well

#4- Claude

Availability: Bahrain, Cyprus, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen
Arabic Input: Yes
Arabic Output: Yes

Claude is a family of AI models developed by Anthropic PBC, a US-based artificial intelligence (AI) startup company founded in 2021. The company’s mission is to research and develop AI technology that benefits the public. Anthropic was founded by former members of OpenAI, Daniela Amodei and Dario Amodei, and has since made a name for itself in the AI community.

Free Claude users can access the Sonnet model, which is designed for natural language processing tasks such as text generation, translation, and summarization. Sonnet comes with a daily messaging limit that’s dynamically adjusted based on demand and reset every morning. Unfortunately, the limit can be quite unpredictable in practice, allowing you to chat extensively one day and then stopping you after a few messages the next one.

Pros:

• Free access to the Sonnet model
• Daily message limit is dynamically adjusted based on demand
• It’s easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface

Cons:

• Unpredictable daily limit

#5- Local LLMs

Availability: Everywhere
Arabic Input: Depends on which model you choose
Arabic Output: Depends on which model you choose

Local LLMs are a breed apart from the cloud-based solutions we’ve discussed so far. Instead of relying on powerful remote servers, these models run entirely on your own computer hardware. Examples include Llama 3, Phi 3, and Gemma.

One of the biggest advantages of local LLMs is that they are uncensored. Another advantage of local LLMs is that they can be customized to your specific needs. For example, you can fine-tune the model on your own data, allowing it to better understand and generate responses that are specific to your industry or use case.

However, there are also some downsides to using local LLMs. The biggest challenge is that they can be more difficult to set up and maintain than cloud-based AI chatbots. You’ll need to have the right hardware and software, such as Ollama or LM Studio, to run the model, and the performance of your hardware directly influences the performance you can expect.

Pros:

• Complete control and customization
• Uncensored and unrestricted by content limitations
• Arabic-specific models available

Cons:

• More difficult to set up
• Performance depends on how powerful hardware you have
• Can’t match leading cloud-based models

Conclusion

The Middle East region has access to some of the best free AI chatbots available in the market. From ChatGPT’s natural language processing capabilities and Mistral AI’s range of large language models to Google Gemini’s integration with Google apps and Claude’s focus on ethical AI, each chatbot has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Local LLMs also offer a viable alternative for those who prefer to have complete control and customization over their AI models. Ultimately, the best AI chatbot for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

The post Top Free AI Chatbots Available In The Middle East appeared first on Tech Magazine.

What Is Google Gemini?

Born from the evolution of Google’s AI initiatives, Gemini, formerly known as Bard, is a state-of-the-art chatbot developed by Google. This LLM initiative was Google’s answer to the fast-rising popularity of OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

Gemini brings to the table a suite of capabilities we’ve come to expect from large language models:

• Multi-Modal Understanding: Gemini is natively multi-modal, meaning it can understand, operate across, and combine different types of information including text, code, audio, image, and video.
• Sophisticated Reasoning: Gemini’s reasoning capabilities enable it to think more carefully before answering difficult questions, leading to significant improvements over just using its first impression. This is particularly useful in fields requiring complex problem-solving abilities.
• Advanced Coding: Gemini can understand, explain, and generate high-quality code in over 20 programming languages. It excels in coding benchmarks, making it a powerful tool for developers.
• Multi-Language Support: Gemini’s translation abilities and its support for numerous languages help break down communication barriers. This is especially valuable in a globalized world, making both work and personal interactions potentially smoother.
• State-Of-The-Art Performance: Gemini Ultra (used in Gemini Advanced) has outperformed human experts on the MMLU benchmark, a massive multitask language understanding test, scoring 90.0%. It exceeds current state-of-the-art results on 30 of the 32 widely-used academic benchmarks.

While Gemini was introduced with the ability to generate images through Google Brain’s Imagen 2 text-to-image model, these image generation capabilities are currently disabled because the feature created a controversy after flooding the internet with historically inaccurate, racially-biased images.

Google Gemini Availability

Currently, Gemini supports more than 40 languages, including Arabic, Farsi, and Turkish, among others, and extends its reach to over 230 countries and territories, with Egypt, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Tunisia all being on the list.

Besides the standard version of Gemini, which uses Google’s Pro 1.0 model, there’s also Gemini Advanced, which is based on the Ultra 1.0 model. This more sophisticated version of the LLM is available in more than 150 countries and territories in English. Again, Egypt, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Tunisia are all supported. Unfortunately, Gemini Advanced is optimized only for English, so its responses in other languages can be a hit or miss.

How To Use Google Gemini?

Getting started with Google Gemini, whether on desktop or mobile, is a straightforward process:

On Desktop:

1- Visit The Gemini Website: You can find it at gemini.google.com.

2- Sign In: Click on the Sign in If you have an existing Google account and are older than 18 years, then you can simply use it to sign in. If you don’t have one already, this is the time to create it.

3- Accept The Terms Of Service: Read and accept Google Gemini’s Terms of Service by clicking more, followed by I agree on the subsequent page.

4- Start Using Gemini: After clicking Continue, you will be directed to the Gemini page.

5- Message Gemini: Type your question or search term into the search box and press enter. Await Gemini’s response, which will be generated based on the input provided.

On Mobile:

• Android: As an Android user, you can download the Google Gemini app from the Play Store, or you can use the mobile version of the gemini.google.com website.
• iOS: Unfortunately, there’s currently no dedicated Google Gemini app for iOS, but there’s a Gemini tab will appear at the top of the Google app.

Top Tips For Google Gemini Beginners

One of the biggest advantages of conversational AI systems like Gemini is their intuitiveness. You can literally just start asking questions and issuing commands, and Gemini will do its best to understand and respond appropriately. However, to truly harness the power of Google Gemini, especially if you’re just starting out, it’s important to keep a few key tips in mind:

• Double-Check Information: Click the Google icon below any response from Gemini. This feature allows you to quickly verify the accuracy of the information provided using Google Search.
• Provide Feedback: Use the thumbs up or down icons to give feedback on Gemini’s responses. This simple action helps Gemini learn from your preferences, continually improving the accuracy and relevance of its future replies.
• Listen To Responses: For those who prefer auditory learning or simply wish to hear the information, click the speaker icon at the top of a response. This feature converts text to speech, allowing you to listen to Gemini’s replies.
• Leverage Multi-Modality: If you’re stuck explaining something in words, try supplementing your query with an image or reference a piece of code. Gemini’s understanding of different input types can lead to more nuanced assistance.
• Break Down Complex Tasks If you have a complicated problem, try breaking it into smaller, sequential steps. Gemini can assist with each stage, making the whole process more manageable.
• Experiment With Prompts: Don’t be afraid to rephrase questions or provide additional context to guide Gemini in different directions. You may be surprised by the insights you uncover through a slight change in wording.

ChatGPT vs Google Gemini: Which Is Better For MENA Users?

With both Google Gemini and ChatGPT being available in the MENA region, users have unprecedented access to some of the most advanced AI chatbot technologies. Deciding which platform best suits your needs depends on various factors, including pricing, features, and how well each integrates into your daily digital routine. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:

Gemini presents a compelling option for users deeply embedded in Google’s ecosystem or those looking for a value-packed subscription. With the Google One AI Premium plan, you can enjoy access to Gemini Advanced and 2 TB of cloud storage space for use across Google’s suite of products, which includes Gmail, Google Docs, and more. Best of all, you can currently get two months of the Google One AI Premium plan for free, so there’s no reason to not give it a try.

On the other hand, ChatGPT shines with its extensive feature set, especially with DALL-E for image generation and the ability to create and train custom GPTs. Despite what artificial LLM performance benchmarks say, ChatGPT’s answers are typically more accurate and relevant than Gemini’s, but they do take longer to generate, and there’s a fairly strict usage limit (40 messages every 3 hours). Unfortunately, OpenAI doesn’t offer a free trial version of its ChatGPT Plus plan, but you can play with the free version of ChatGPT without any limitations.

Conclusion

Google Gemini is a fascinating addition to the world of conversational AI, and it’s already available to users across the MENA region. With its advanced capabilities — from multi-modal understanding to sophisticated reasoning and multi-language support — it presents a good alternative to ChatGPT for those in the Google ecosystem as well as those who have a need for another AI companion in their.

The post Getting Started With Google Gemini: A Beginner’s Guide appeared first on Tech Magazine.

Dubai, a city known for its architectural wonders and bustling markets, recently topped the rankings as the world’s fastest-growing venture capital (VC) ecosystem. According to PitchBook’s analysis of data from the third quarter of 2017 to the second quarter of 2023, Dubai boasts a VC ecosystem growth score of 72.8.

This remarkable achievement places it ahead of renowned tech hubs in Europe and the United States. These figures are a testament to Dubai’s strategic initiatives and conducive business environment, which have collectively fostered an unprecedented growth trajectory in its tech sector.

If you’re among those who would like to leverage Dubai’s booming tech landscape, there’s never been a better time to start. In the following sections, we’ll provide you with the essential information you need to bring your tech business vision to life in the UAE.

Why Should I Base My Tech Business In Dubai?

Dubai hasn’t become the tech hub of the world for no reason. The government has made starting a business in the city remarkably straightforward and efficient by setting up over 40 Free-Trade Zones (FTZs).

These special business zones offer such highly attractive benefits as 100% foreign ownership, 100% repatriation of capital and profits, 100% exemption from corporate and income taxes, and 100% exemption from customs duty for goods and services moving in and out of the Free-Trade Zones.

Tech giants like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Google have already taken advantage of the prime commercial office space available in Dubai Internet City (DIC) FTZ. In addition, businesses in Dubai’s free zones benefit from simplified accounting requirements, adding to the ease of doing business.

Enhanced privacy is another key feature of Dubai’s business landscape. The free zones do not maintain publicly visible company registers, so they provide an additional layer of privacy that many business owners value.

The city’s global appeal and diverse population ensure that businesses can easily find the right mix of skills and expertise to meet their objectives. At the same time, Dubai’s infrastructure, including reliable internet, telecommunications, and state-of-the-art office spaces and facilities, provides a solid foundation for tech companies to operate efficiently and effectively.

Last but not least, Dubai’s banking system is notably business-friendly. The presence of numerous international banks and a smooth process for financial transactions ensures that businesses can manage their financial operations with ease and assurance.

Who Can Start A Tech Business In Dubai?

Think Dubai’s tech scene is only for the big players? Think again. It’s a land of opportunity for anyone with a vision and the drive to see it through, including:

• Entrepreneurs: If you have a unique idea and the determination to make it a reality, Dubai’s tech ecosystem is the perfect place to start. The city provides not just the technological infrastructure but also a supportive community to guide and nurture new entrepreneurs.
• Startups: The city’s dynamic market and forward-thinking policies create an ideal environment for startups to grow and thrive. Plus, with numerous networking events and startup accelerators, young companies can find the support and resources they need to reach the next level.
• Established Companies: The city’s global business environment and access to a wider market can propel established companies into new realms of success without turning their accounting into a complex maze.

Regardless of which of these categories your tech business falls into, Dubai offers a conducive environment for growth and innovation.

What Do I Need To Start A Technology Business In Dubai?

The beauty of starting a technology business in the United Arab Emirates is that it doesn’t take much effort to complete the process. Here’s a quick overview to get you started:

1. Identify your business activity: First, you need to decide on the nature of your tech business. The UAE free zones offer various types of business licenses based on your business activity, ranging from e-commerce to innovation, and including options like Commercial Trade, Consultancy Services, and more.
2. Decide your company’s legal structure: Your business can take one of three legal forms in the UAE free zone: Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC), Free Zone Company (FZ Co.), or Free Zone Establishment (FZE). This choice will depend on your business’s specific needs and the nature of your activities.
3. Register your trade name: Choosing a unique trade name is crucial. It should not only be distinctive but also comply with certain terms and conditions, like not containing inappropriate words or the names of rulers or government agencies.
4. Select your business location: With over 40 free zones in the UAE, pick one that aligns with your business activity. As we’ve already mentioned, most tech businesses are located in Dubai Internet City, so that’s probably the right choice for you as well.
5. Obtain initial approval & pay fees: Getting initial approval involves fulfilling specific requirements and submitting necessary documents. Commonly required documents include:
   • Completed application form: The official form for registering a new business.
   • Business plan: A detailed document outlining the business’s goals, strategies, and operations.
   • Passport copies of shareholders and appointed manager: Identification documents for the business’s key personnel.
   • Notarized Registry Identification Code Form for the manager: An official, notarized document verifying the manager’s identity.
   • Specimen signatures: Official signature samples of the company’s key personnel.
   • Letter of Intent: A document outlining the intentions or plans of the potential investor or business owner.
   • Financial reports or bank reference letters, if required: Documents showing the financial health or credibility of the business or owner.
   • Registration application: The form used to apply for a freelancer or professional license.
   • CV or profile: A resume or professional profile detailing experience and qualifications.
   • Bank reference letter: A letter from a bank vouching for the individual’s financial reliability.
6. Pay registration fees: Now you just need to pay the required fees to complete the registration. These fees vary depending on the type of business license and the specific free zone you choose for your company.

For more comprehensive information, check the website of the UAE Ministry of Economy.

Dubai Tech Success Stories To Inspire And Motivate You

The following success stories showcase the immense possibilities when entrepreneurs harness the power and potential of Dubai’s thriving business ecosystem.

Anastasia Denisova, a 23-year-old Russian expat, is a shining example of youthful ambition meeting opportunity. As the CEO of a Dubai-based AI property portal, she has steered her company to generate an impressive $1 million every month since 2022. Denisova’s journey is remarkable for her focus on personal well-being and work-life balance, proving that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of personal happiness.

The story of Rabih Bou Rached, a Lebanese expat, is an inspiring tale of evolution. From waiting tables as a teenager to running a drone company in the UAE, Bou Rached’s journey underscores the transformative power of perseverance and vision. His entrepreneurial path, which began in the food and beverage industry, took a pivotal turn with his introduction to drones, leading to the successful establishment of a commercial drone service provider in Dubai.

There’s also Charbel Nasr, who transitioned from a banker at age 21 to the head of a payment platform at 33. According to the Lebanese expat, his shift from a secure banking job to the world of FinTech in Dubai wouldn’t be possible without the city’s ability to foster innovation and encourage entrepreneurial ventures in diverse fields.

Conclusion

Dubai’s position as a global tech hub is firmly established, and there’s nothing stopping tech businesses from around the world from joining it and reaping the numerous financial, operational, and strategic benefits it offers. We hope that our concise guide has illuminated the path for your own entrepreneurial journey in this thriving city and the United Arab Emirates as a whole.

Bonus: Check out our comprehensive guide on how start an online tech business in Dubai.

The post How (And Why) To Start A Tech Business In Dubai, UAE appeared first on Tech Magazine.

Quick Summary Of The Top 11 Best e-Commerce Platforms In The Middle East:

The Middle East Is Fast-Tracking E-Commerce Growth

In recent years, the global e-commerce market has skyrocketed, with Deloitte projecting a leap to $6.35 trillion in revenue by 2027. The Middle East, previously taking baby steps in this digital domain, has caught up at an astonishing pace, thanks to better internet, the rise of smartphones, and a newfound love for the ease of online shopping.

The pandemic played its part as the catalyst of MENA’s online shopping boom. With shopping from home becoming the new norm, the Middle East saw a dramatic pivot towards e-commerce, leading to a surge in demand for all things deliverable. Today, the sector is blossoming, set to hit a staggering $50 billion by 2025. The UAE market, a star in this digital constellation, is projected to grow from $10.37 billion in 2023 to $13.93 billion by 2027.

It’s clear that the e-commerce scene here is on a meteoric rise, backed by what has become near-total internet penetration and a digital payment preference shared by 70% of MENA consumers. While it’s difficult to predict who will emerge as the market leaders in the years to come, given the fast pace of technological innovation and shifting consumer habits, we know which e-commerce websites are leading the charge right now.

#1- Amazon.ae (Formally Souq)

Monthly Visits: 24.9 Million
Founded: 2019
Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Product Category: General

Amazon.ae became what it is today thanks to the acquisition of Souq.com, once the largest e-commerce website in the entire Arab world. The US tech giant spent $580 million to integrate Souq.com under its banner. This move not only expanded Amazon’s reach but also upgraded the shopping experience for millions in the Middle East with its vast product selection.

Just like Amazon.com, the UAE-specific website offers everything from the latest tech gizmos to fashion finds, home essentials, and beauty products, and more. If you can name it, Amazon.ae likely has it. But it’s not just about the range; the platform is renowned for its user-friendly experience, reliable delivery, and customer service that’s got your back.

#2- Noon.com

Monthly Visits: 16.6 Million
Founded: 2016
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Product Category: General

With roots in the UAE and a reach that extends into Saudi Arabia and Egypt, Noon is a homegrown marketplace that brings a diverse array of products right to the doorsteps of the Middle East. Launched by business tycoon Mohamed Alabbar and backed by the hefty support of the Public Investment Fund, Noon has quickly made its mark since its inception in 2016.

The site is a bustling hub for electronics, fashion, home goods, and even groceries. In August 2022, it expanded its fashion footprint by acquiring Namshi, further cementing its status as a full-spectrum lifestyle shopping destination. For sellers, Noon.com offers its Seller Lab and Fulfillment program, which simplifies logistics and order fulfillment so businesses can focus on what they do best — selling quality products.

#3- Daraz

Monthly Visits: 12.4 Million
Founded: 2012
Headquarters: Karachi, Pakistan
Product Category: General

Daraz might have started as a modest online fashion retailer in Pakistan in 2012, but don’t let its humble beginnings fool you. This platform has quickly evolved into a leading e-commerce powerhouse in South Asia, serving not just Pakistan but also Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. With the backing of tech giant Alibaba since 2018, Daraz has widened its catalog and sharpened its technological edge.

What’s remarkable about Daraz is its keen understanding of the local markets. It’s more than a shopping site; it’s a community builder, connecting over 34,500 sellers to millions of customers. From the busy streets of Karachi to the remote valleys of Chitral, Daraz makes sure that no matter where you are, you can buy or sell just about anything. And with a young, tech-savvy population that’s rapidly embracing digital payments — Daraz is at the forefront of shaping a digitalized Pakistan.

#4- Desertcart

Monthly Visits: 3.8 Million
Founded: 2006
Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Product Category: General

Established in 2014, Desertcart has become a go-to e-commerce platform in the UAE, known for sourcing products that locals might struggle to find. At its core, Desertcart’s approach is all about simplicity and service – think of it as a hybrid of Amazon’s expansive inventory and a personalized shop-and-ship solution, topped off with attentive customer support.

When the pandemic hit, Desertcart’s relevance soared, with the platform tripling its business. This surge was driven by its effective system that simplifies the complexities of international shopping. For customers looking for products from across the globe, Desertcart stepped in to streamline the process, managing the logistical hoops of shipping, customs, and after-sales service, which proved to be invaluable, especially when international supply chains were disrupted and local availability limited.

#5- Digikala

Monthly Visits: 3.6 Million
Founded: 2006
Headquarters: Tehran, Iran
Product Category: General, Digital Goods

Digikala has etched its name as Iran’s premier online marketplace, offering a one-stop-shop for an array of products, with a sweet spot for electronics and digital goods. It’s the brainchild of two brothers, Hamid and Saeid Mohammadi, who, fueled by their frustrating experience trying to purchase a digital camera, decided to create a solution. With just $10,000 from their savings, they launched Digikala in 2006, and it’s been on an upward trajectory ever since.

Key to securing customer trust are Digital’s consumer-centric features, like a 7-day return policy and an express delivery service. The platform has adopted various innovative strategies, including a pay-per-sale commission model, to stay afloat during economic downturns and continue serving millions of Iranians, even in the most remote villages.

#6- Namshi

Monthly Visits: 2.7 Million
Founded: 2011
Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Product Category: Fashion, Footwear, Accessories, Beauty

Namshi has been turning heads in the Middle East’s online fashion scene since its inception in 2011. Based in Dubai, this e-commerce platform has made a name for itself as the go-to destination for those looking to spruce up their wardrobe with the latest trends.

Namshi has smartly leveraged technology to simplify operations and manage the hefty traffic it garners, especially during sales and seasonal promotions. Because of its success across all fronts, Namshi was acquired by Noon in 2022, but it continues to operate as a distinctive brand within the e-commerce landscape. This acquisition has allowed Namshi to leverage Noon’s extensive regional infrastructure, enhancing its reach and operational capabilities.

#7- Jumia Egypt

Monthly Visits: 2.4 Million
Founded: 2012
Headquarters: Lagos, Nigeria
Product Category: General

Jumia Egypt, part of a broader Pan-African e-commerce pioneer, launched in 2012. It’s like a bustling digital marketplace that brings together a variety of sellers and products, ranging from tech gadgets to fashion, and everything in between. As a tech company, Jumia has knitted a complex web of logistics and payment services, simplifying the online shopping process for millions. While its roots are in Nigeria, Jumia’s branches stretch across the continent, with Egypt being one of its biggest markets.

Behind the scenes, Jumia is continually refining its technological backbone. In 2021, the company ramped up its tech center in Egypt, aiming to supercharge its services across Africa. And when COVID-19 hit, accelerating digital transitions, Jumia Egypt was ready, providing a lifeline to both consumers and entrepreneurs, including a substantial number of women who run businesses on the platform.

#8- Mumzworld

Monthly Visits: 1.4 Million
Founded: 2011
Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Product Category: Mother, Baby, Child Essentials

Mumzworld offers a huge selection of baby and childcare products to Middle Eastern shoppers. Founded in 2011 by a team of experienced parents and entrepreneurs, the website quickly established itself as a comprehensive one-stop online shop for everything a parent might need — from newborn essentials to toys for toddlers and gear for pre-teens.

At Mumzworld, the focus is on variety, quality, and the ease of having it all in one place. It’s got a clear edge with its extensive product range, hosting over 120,000 items from more than 600 top global brands. Whether you’re after a bottle that’s just right for your baby or the safest car seat for your growing toddler, Mumzworld offers it all, coupled with insightful customer reviews and competitive pricing.

#9- The Luxury Closet

Monthly Visits: 924,000
Founded: 2012
Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Product Category: Pre-Owned Luxury Goods

This Dubai-based platform, launched in 2012, has quickly risen to prominence by providing access to coveted high-end brands at significantly reduced prices. In 2021, The Luxury Closet successfully raised $14 million to expand its reach and solidify its position as a leader in sustainable luxury commerce. Here, fans of luxury can indulge in the likes of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Rolex, brands that are renowned for their reluctance to discount their wares. The Luxury Closet makes these aspirational labels more accessible, offering an average discount of 60% off retail.

Beyond the allure of savings, The Luxury Closet is driven by a mission to extend the lifecycle of luxury items, promoting a sustainable approach to fashion that resonates with a growing base of eco-conscious consumers. It’s a place where the past prestige of designer items meets the present desire for value and virtue.

#10- OUNASS

Monthly Visits: 616,000
Founded: 2016
Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Product Category: Luxury Fashion, Beauty Products, Home Goods

Since its inception in 2016 by the Al Tayer Group, OUNASS has become one of the go-to destinations for luxury fashion, beauty products, and home goods in the Middle East, offering over 300 opulent brands.

OUNASS promises 2-hour delivery within Dubai and same-day dispatch across the UAE, so shoppers with deep pockets don’t have to wait to wrap themselves in the luxury they’ve purchased. This level of service is complimented by potential savings, as OUNASS often features deals that allow for a more accessible foray into the world of high fashion without the steep price tags.

#11- Sivvi

Monthly Visits: 132,000
Founded: 2014
Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Product Category: Fashion

Born in 2014 and now powered by the e-commerce giant Noon, it’s quickly become a high-traffic destination for fashionistas in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Sivvi dishes out a mix of high-street and luxury brands, serving up the latest trends and wardrobe staples for women, men, and kids alike. With over 2,000 brands under its belt, the platform delivers everything from casual tees and denim to designer dresses and activewear, not to mention accessories and beauty products to tie your look together.

With an intuitive app, shopping is a breeze, offering personalized recommendations, easy-to-navigate categories, and a wishlist to bookmark those must-have items. And if you’re impatient for your fashion fix, Sivvi’s got you covered with fast delivery options, including same-day service in Riyadh and next-day in many KSA and UAE cities. What seals the deal are their customer-friendly policies like free returns within 14 days and a range of payment methods.

Conclusion

Our exploration of the top e-commerce websites in the Middle East has highlighted everything from sprawling generalists like Amazon.ae and Noon.com to online stores such as Namshi and Sivvi. As the region continues to embrace the digital revolution, with a young, tech-savvy population and increasing internet penetration, e-commerce is set to flourish even further.

Note: Traffic data for the e-commerce websites listed comes from SimilarWeb.

The post Top E-Commerce Websites In The Middle East In 2024 appeared first on Tech Magazine.

Quick Summary Of The Top 10 Best Freelance Platforms In The Middle East:

The Middle East Is Embracing Gig Work

If you’re interested in the best freelance marketplaces in the Middle East because you want to kick off your freelance journey or elevate your existing gig game, then you’re not alone.

The Middle East, a region once synonymous with oil, has been fast morphing into a hotbed of freelance activity. Tectonic shifts in economic landscapes, spurred by youthful vigor and digital dexterity, are making the gig economy not just an alternative, but a preferred mode of work.

In a sweeping survey of over 4,000 professionals from the MENA region, a whopping nearly 9 out of 10 stated that freelancing is their current or future plan, particularly when it comes to online marketing, graphic design, and content writing.

For those who are interested in trading regular work schedules for a more flexible freelance lifestyle, the appeal is clear: the autonomy to choose projects that resonate with your skills and interests, the freedom to set your own hours, and the ability to work from anywhere are powerful draws. And when you couple the perks of freelancing with the appeal of cities like Dubai, Bahrain, and Abu Dhabi, which have thriving startup ecosystems (particularly in sectors like fintech, edtech, and digital media), the proposition becomes all the more enticing.

That’s why there’s no shortage of websites where MENA freelancers can find gigs that align with their expertise and aspirations. On one hand, we have global marketplaces like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer. On the other hand, regional alternatives such as Ureed, Tasmeem, and Mosawer.net are equally excellent, helping freelancers and employers within the region collaborate with ease. Let’s take a closer look at them.

#1- Upwork

Withdrawal Methods: Bank Transfer, PayPal, Payoneer, M-Pesa
Service Fees: 10% of the earnings made on the platform

As the most popular freelance platform in the world, Upwork stands as a colossal figure even in the MENA region, offering a platform where freelancers can connect with clients in need of services ranging from graphic design to web development and much more.

Thanks to its size, there’s no shortage of work opportunities on Upwork, posted by anyone from solo entrepreneurs to large brands. That’s why the platform is equally ripe with potential for newbies looking to snag your first gig and seasoned professionals eyeing big-ticket projects.

However, Upwork can be a bit competitive for newcomers due to its vast pool of established freelancers and the fact that it costs money to let clients know that you’re interested in their project because freelancers receive only a limited number of free Connects every month.

#2- Fiverr

Withdrawal Methods: PayPal, Fiverr Card, Bank Transfer, Direct Deposit, Payoneer
Service Fees: 20% of the earnings made on the platform

Fiverr flips the traditional freelance model on its head. Instead of bidding on projects, freelancers set up digital mini-stores, showcasing their services to clients who come shopping. This unique system takes the pressure off bidding and allows freelancers to shine in their own creative space.

As freelancers complete projects and rack up positive reviews, they ascend the ranks, possibly earning the coveted Top Rated Seller badge, which amps up their visibility on the platform. For those with a solid freelance reputation elsewhere, there’s Fiverr Pro. An application to this exclusive club can open doors to high-value projects and premium clients.

However, the path isn’t rosy for everyone. Newbies may find it tough to gain traction amidst a sea of established freelancers. And the steep service fee of 20% can be a deterrent for some, especially considering that Fiverr’s customer support notoriously sides only with clients.

#3- Freelancer.com

Withdrawal Methods: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Skrill, Payoneer, Express Withdrawal
Service Fees: 10% of the earnings made on the platform, which can be reduced with a paid monthly membership

Rounding up the trio of global online marketplaces for freelancers is Freelancer.com. Founded in 2009 with its headquarters nestled in Sydney, Australia, this platform has grown into a popular space for freelancers and clients to connect.

This platform attracts with a fairly low service fee of 10%, which can be lessened with a paid monthly membership, making it even more palatable for those who plan on using the platform extensively. The variety of withdrawal methods adds to the platform’s appeal, catering to freelancers worldwide, including those in the Middle East.

Just know that Freelancer.com does have its share of challenges. One notable concern is the race to the bottom competition often seen from freelancers from Pakistan and India, who sometimes offer extremely low rates for their services. This can make it harder for freelancers in other regions to compete on price.

#4- Ureed

Withdrawal Methods: Wire Transfer, PayPal, Payoneer
Service Fees: 20% of the earnings made on the platform

Formerly known as Nabbesh, Ureed has rebranded and evolved into a bustling marketplace for freelancers in the MENA region. Unlike Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com, this freelance services marketplace has its deep roots in the Middle East, with all of its founders being from the region.

Since its inception in 2017, the platform has witnessed robust growth, doubling in size and extending its reach beyond borders. Now, it boasts over 5,000 employees working remotely across 10 countries, and is home to freelancers spanning 500+ different specialties, 55% of which are women.

To get started on Ureed, you just need to sign up, create an attractive profile to showcase your expertise and experience, test your knowledge to get a blue check, and start pitching for projects. It’s a simple system that should be instantly familiar to those who have used other platforms and should take no time at all to get used to for those with little to no experience.

#5- Tasmeem ME

Withdrawal Methods: Not Applicable
Service Fees: Not Applicable

Tasmeem ME, translating to “my design” in Arabic, is a haven for creatives in the Middle East, particularly those who spend their days creating logos, illustrations, 3D models, motion graphics, websites, and so on.

Launched in 2009 as a part-time endeavor, it morphed into a full-fledged platform by 2014. Today, Tasmeem ME is known mainly for its job board, where freelancers can browse through a variety of creative projects. Besides connecting freelancers with clients, Tasmeem ME is also a place where designers can showcase their work and a hub for learning and professional development, offering a range of courses that go well beyond design.

It’s worth pointing out that Tasmeem ME, unlike some other freelance platforms, doesn’t handle payments. It purely serves as a bridge between freelancers and clients, leaving the financial transactions and agreements to be managed externally.

#6- Mosawer.net

Withdrawal Methods: Handled directly with clients (payment processing options to be released soon)
Service Fees: 20% commission on bookings (to be introduced later this year)

Mosawer.net shines a spotlight on freelance photographers in the Middle East, offering a platform where they can showcase their portfolio and attract customers. As a freelancer, you get to create a profile, display your work, and be discovered by clients in search of photography services. The platform has a simple yet effective process: clients can search, filter, and shortlist photographers, request quotes, and then confirm bookings through a chat.

If you’re keen on a particular project, clients can also post public jobs, allowing you to privately send in your application. Although it’s completely free to sign up and create your portfolio, Mosawer.net plans to introduce a 20% commission fee on bookings later this year.

The current model requires freelancer photographers to handle payment processes directly with your client, but there’s a promise of several payment options being introduced soon. While this is a point of friction, the platform makes up for it by offering exclusive benefits and discounts from their partners, just by sharing your Mosawer.net profile link with them.

#7- Elharefa

Withdrawal Methods: Cash, Bank Transfer, Vodafone Cash, Orange Cash, Etisalat Cash, Aman Payments, Masary’s Shops (Egypt)
Service Fees: 20% of the total project value

Dubbed as a hub for the talented and diligent, Elharefa is Egypt’s most popular website for freelancers. Getting started is straightforward: browse through the available jobs, create a free account, fill out your profile, and once verified, you’re set to draft and send proposals to jobs that catch your eye.

The monetary aspect is handled with transparency. Once a client picks you for a job, they pay the project budget to Elharefa, who takes a 20% cut, and you get started on your project. Payments are released post project completion and client approval, and transferred within 5 working days.

Elharefa supports both short-term projects or long-term gigs with milestone-based payments, so whether you’re looking for a quick gig or a longer, more involved project, this platform has got you covered.

#8- Bawabba

Withdrawal Methods: Direct payment from clients
Service Fees: 20% commission for the lead if the deal closes successfully

Focusing primarily on the UAE, Bawabba is a platform where freelancers can offer over 160 different types of services, such as photography, music, arts and crafts, writing, graphic design, consulting, legal, architecture, programming, maintenance, and entertainment. One of the notable features of Bawabba is the absence of a sign-up requirement to contact freelancers, making the process less cumbersome for potential clients.

The payment structure on Bawabba is quite direct; freelancers are paid per project, per hour, or per word, depending on the nature of the job, with payments made directly by the clients. Although Bawabba charges a 20% commission for leads if a deal closes successfully, it holds no accountability for disputes between the user and the customer.

This lack of mediation in payment disputes could be a downside as the onus of payment retrieval falls solely on the freelancer, which could be challenging especially in cases of disagreements.

#9- Inploy

Withdrawal Methods: Not Applicable
Service Fees: No Fees

Breaking into the MENA freelancing scene in 2019, Inploy has quickly become the go-to platform for Egyptian freelancers and small business owners looking to connect with clients locally and beyond. Pitching itself as an online marketplace for premium talent, Inploy hosts a vast directory of service providers across over 30 categories.

The platform stands out with its Free Contact Exchange feature, breaking down communication barriers between clients and freelancers by enabling them to connect directly at no extra charge. This is a breath of fresh air in an industry where platforms often act as a middleman at every stage.

Right now, Inploy is testing payment facilitation features, whose purpose is to ensure safe and secure transactions between clients and freelancers. It’s likely that these features will be monetized in the future.

#10- Bayt

Withdrawal Methods: Not Applicable
Service Fees: Not Applicable

Dubbed as the MENA’s version of Indeed, Bayt isn’t your typical freelancing platform like Upwork or Fiverr. Instead, it positions itself as a comprehensive job site, connecting job seekers with employers across the Middle East since its inception in 2000.

Despite not being a traditional freelancing website, it holds a treasure trove of opportunities for freelancers. A simple filter using the “freelance” keyword unlocks a world of freelance gigs among the 55,000+ active job listings on the platform. Navigating through Bayt is a breeze, especially with its well-designed mobile app that makes job hunting on the go quite convenient.

Conclusion

Embarking on a freelance journey in the Middle East is an exhilarating venture waiting to unfold, especially with the surge of online platforms bridging the gap between freelancers and potential clients. We hope that our introduction of the top 10 best freelance platforms in the MENA region has helped you choose the right platform to kickstart or elevate your freelance career. Good luck!

The post Top 10 Best Freelance Platforms In The Middle East appeared first on Tech Magazine.

We know that navigating through the wide range of web hosting options available in the Middle East can feel like crossing the Sahara without a map or a compass. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best web hosting providers in the Middle East.

Why Choose A Middle Eastern Web Hosting Provider?

Choosing a web hosting provider for your site is much like choosing the perfect location for your brick-and-mortar store. You want to position yourself where your audience can easily reach you. Why? Because you can unlock the following benefits:

• Enhanced Performance: Servers located closer to your audience mean faster load times and a smoother user experience. This proximity reduces the latency between the user’s request and the server’s response.
• Improved SEO: Search engines like Google take server location into account when determining your site’s ranking. By hosting your site on servers located in the Middle East, you’re signaling to search engines that your content is relevant to users in this region.
• Local Customer Support: There’s nothing like speaking to someone who understands your language, both literally and culturally. Local providers typically offer customer service in regional languages and are more likely to be attuned to the needs and expectations of Middle Eastern customers.
• Easier Regulatory Compliance: The Middle East has specific online regulations, and opting for a local provider ensures your website is built and maintained in line with these regional regulations, providing peace of mind that you’re on the right side of the rules.

Now, you understand why choosing a Middle Eastern web hosting provider is a smart move. Before we list our top picks, let’s briefly go over some of the most important selection criteria we considered when compiling this list.

Note: It takes more than the right web hosting provider to create a successful website.

How To Choose A Web Hosting Provider In The Middle East?

Choosing the best web hosting provider in the Middle East isn’t difficult because there are several important factors you should always take into account:

• Uptime: Uptime refers to the percentage of time your website is accessible and running. Ideally, you want a web host that offers an uptime of 99.9% or better because, let’s face it, a website that’s often down doesn’t make a good impression on your visitors.
• Performance: Performance is all about how fast your website loads for your visitors. Look for a host with high-speed servers and optimized technologies that ensure your website loads quickly because loading speed is an important ranking factor.
• Scalability: Your website will grow over time, and so will your hosting needs. Look for a provider that offers scalable plans, allowing you to easily upgrade as your traffic and resource needs increase.
• Extras: The best web hosting providers make it easy to obtain and install SSL certificates, set up email accounts, get popular content management systems like WordPress up and running, and more.
• Customer Support: If things go wrong, you want to be sure you can reach out to a knowledgeable and responsive customer service team, preferably 24/7. Because the last thing you want is to be left in the lurch with a broken website.
• User Reviews: Don’t just take the provider’s word for it. Check out user reviews and ratings on independent review sites. They can offer valuable insights into a provider’s reliability and the quality of their service.
• Price: While price shouldn’t be your sole deciding factor, it’s definitely important. Look for a provider that offers transparent pricing and gives you good value for your money. Remember, the cheapest isn’t always the best.

We considered all these factors when compiling our list of the best web hosting providers in the Middle East, and now it’s time to reveal who made the cut.

Top 7 Best Web Hosting Providers In The Middle East

When going through our selection of the best web hosting providers in the Middle East, you should remember that your ultimate choice should reflect your specific personal needs. You might be hunting for the best shared hosting package to save costs, or you might be a large business requiring a robust dedicated server. If you take these various personal factors into consideration, you should end up with a web hosting provider that you won’t want to leave anytime soon.

#1- AEserver

 Web Hosting Types: Linux hosting, Windows hosting, managed WordPress, cloud VPS, dedicated servers, colocation in Dubai, private cloud

 Uptime Guarantee: 99.99%

 Server Location: United Arab Emirates, and other locations

Established in the UAE in 2005, AEserver has evolved from a simple domain name registration service to a robust web hosting provider renowned for its excellent performance and value for money. Hosting over 50,000 websites globally, this top-rated provider has indeed come a long way.

With a diverse offering of hosting types, AEserver caters to a broad spectrum of users, so it should be able to meet your needs regardless of what you’re looking for. Its 4.8/5 rating from over 500 reviews speaks volumes about the company’s service quality and reliability.

AEserver’s commitment to customer satisfaction is clear in its support structure. With phone support available during Dubai business hours from Saturday to Thursday and a ticket-based issue management system, the web hosting provider ensures prompt and helpful responses to all inquiries. However, it’s important to note that it currently offers support in English only.

Pros:

• Excellent user reviews
• Great uptime guarantee
• Plenty of web hosting plans to choose from
• Responsive customer support

Cons:

• English only

#2- A2 Hosting

 Web Hosting Types: Shared hosting, VPS hosting, dedicated hosting, reseller hosting, email hosting, cPanel hosting, turbo hosting, WordPress hosting

 Uptime Guarantee: 99.9%

 Server Location: Israel and other locations

If you’re looking for a hosting provider that’s not just reliable but also extraordinarily fast, A2 Hosting might be right up your alley. Established in 2003, this Linux-based hosting provider stands apart from the crowd with its Turbo hosting plans, which are advertised to be 20 times faster than the industry average. This makes A2 Hosting a solid choice for websites that are content-rich or expecting high levels of traffic.

A2 Hosting has certainly built a reputation for excellent customer service, with 24/7/365 live support and a 97% customer recommendation rate. What’s more, it also offers a wealth of freebies with each hosting plan, such as an SSL certificate, site migration, and robust security protections.

However, it’s worth noting that while the introductory prices of A2 Hosting plans are enticingly low, their renewal rates can be relatively steep. So, ensure to take this into account when budgeting for your website’s hosting needs.

Pros:

• Many web hosting types to choose from
• First-class customer service
• Great speed
• Plenty extra goodies

Cons:

• No Windows server options
• Expensive renewals

#3- Alibaba Cloud

 Web Hosting Types: Virtual cloud servers

 Uptime Guarantee: 99.50%

 Server Location: United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and other locations

As a subsidiary of the Alibaba Group, Alibaba Cloud, formerly known as Aliyun, has been delivering solid cloud computing services since 2009. The web hosting provider has data centers in most geographical regions, including the Middle East, making it a great choice for those who want global reach.

Indeed, Alibaba Cloud is geared toward enterprise customers, offering cloud services like elastic computing, relational databases, big-data processing, storage hosting, and others. Even the custom control panel is tailored more towards advanced users, and beginners who are used to one-click installers are guaranteed to find it difficult to use.

The good news is that a free trial for new users is available, so you can test out its services before fully committing. Should you have any questions or run into any issues, you can contact Alibaba Cloud’s customer support staff using different channels, including live chat, ticket system, and toll-free telephone service.

 Pros:

• Wide range of enterprise-level cloud-related services
• Multiple data center locations
• Free trial for new users
• Comprehensive customer support

Cons:

• Virtual cloud servers only
• Too complicated for beginners

#4- eHosting DataFort

 Web Hosting Types: Colocation, managed colocation, managed hosting, hosted dedicated cloud, private cloud, public cloud

 Uptime Guarantee: 99.9%

 Server Location: United Arab Emirates

If you’re after top-notch reliability, then eHosting DataFort is your go-to option. Founded in 2001, this Dubai-based web hosting provider owns and operates multiple Tier 3 data centers with completely redundant power and cooling systems. Indeed, the web hosting provider offers an uptime guarantee of 99.9%, so your website shouldn’t be down for more than 1 minute and 30 seconds per day.

As far as compliance goes, eHosting DataFort has you covered with ISO 9001, 20000, 22301, 27001, and PCI-DSS certifications. The web hosting provider has also nabbed the prestigious Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) STAR Certification, being the first in the region to achieve this feat.

But no web hosting is perfect, and eHosting DataFort has one major limitation too: it operates from just one location, which is in the UAE. This means if your target audience is spread across other Middle Eastern countries, the latency might be slightly higher compared to a provider with multiple server locations in the region.

 Pros:

• Great reliability
• Many compliance certifications
• Attractive prices

Cons:

• Only one server location

#5- SkyHost

 Web Hosting Types: Web hosting, reseller hosting, WordPress hosting, VPS hosting, dedicated servers

 Uptime Guarantee: 99.99%

 Server Location: United Arab Emirates

SkyHost offers an excellent blend of affordability and performance while covering almost the entire spectrum of hosting services. Thanks to its impressive uptime guarantee of 99.99% and servers conveniently located in the UAE, the web hosting provider is perfectly equipped to serve businesses and individuals looking to establish a robust and reliable online presence in the Middle East.

If you’re a web hosting beginner, then you’re guaranteed to appreciate SkyHost’s easy-to-use cPanel powered by Cloudlinux and over 300 one-click installs (including WordPress, Magento, and OpenCart). Migrating from a different web hosting to SkyHost is also easy thanks to a free hosting migration service.

Our biggest dislike is the lack of monthly billing. As a SkyHost customer, you can choose only from annual, biennial, or triennial billing, and we think that’s not flexible enough.

 Pros:

• Impressive uptime
• Great for beginners
• Free migration service

Cons:

• No monthly billing

#6- Premium RDP

 Web Hosting Types: Cloud VPS, dedicated servers

 Uptime Guarantee: 99.99%

 Server Location: Saudia Arabia, Pakistan, United Arab Emirates, and other locations

Premium RDP brings you robust, reliable, and cost-effective cloud servers tailored for businesses looking for a high-quality web hosting experience. Its offering extends across 195+ global locations and 750+ data centers.

One of the standout features of Premium RDP is its custom-made cloud management panel. This full management system allows you to monitor individual servers, manage staff accounts, view bandwidth and usage reports, and more.

Perhaps because Premium RDP makes it so easy for customers to self-manage their accounts, the company doesn’t provide a phone support number. Only a ticketing system is available, and that’s not enough for emergency-level issues.

 Pros:

• A diverse range of hosting options
• Fast RAID SSD storage
• Automated daily and weekly backups

Cons:

• No support phone number

#7- EXAHost

 Web Hosting Types: Shared hosting, VPS hosting, dedicated servers, mail hosting

 Uptime Guarantee: 99%

 Server Location: Saudi Arabia

Beginning its journey in Saudi Arabia 20 years ago, EXAHost has since then dedicated itself to enhancing the Arabian and Saudian online presence. With a vision centered around fortifying Arabic content online, the web hosting provider has persistently worked towards developing web solutions that meet the highest standards.

EXAHost offers a variety of hosting plans to accommodate the needs of various types of clients, and they all come with exceptional 24/7 technical support and a user-friendly control panel.

One slight downside of EXAHost is its 99% uptime guarantee, which is slightly less than the industry standard of 99.9%. Over a year, the difference between 99% and 99.9% uptime adds up to more than 3 full days of downtime, and that’s quite a lot.

 Pros:

• Has been around for a long time
• Personal approach

Cons:

• Uptime guarantee of only 99%

Conclusion

Choosing the right web hosting provider is a pivotal decision in your website’s journey. The best web hosting providers in the Middle East offer not only great value for money but also provide the advantage of geographical proximity to your audience. Remember, your personal needs should guide your choice, whether you’re a small blogger in search of a cost-effective shared hosting plan or a big business looking for a powerful dedicated server. So take your time, review your options, and make an informed decision.

FAQs

The post Best Web Hosting Providers In The Middle East appeared first on Tech Magazine.

Digital payment solutions in the Middle East promise greater convenience for consumers and businesses alike, allowing them to pay for goods and services without the need for physical cash. According to a Mastercard report, 85% of respondents in the MENA region have already used at least one digital payment method, and the number is expected to become even larger as time goes on.

In this guide, we provide a comprehensive overview of the most popular payment methods in the Middle East to help you transact efficiently and safely in the digital age.

Card-Based Payments Still Dominate In The Middle East

While the digital payment landscape in the Middle East is evolving rapidly, card-based payments still dominate it.

One study of the distribution of payment methods used for e-commerce in the Middle East and Africa revealed that credit cards and charge cards account for 31% of all e-commerce payments. The Payments & e-commerce report published by PPRO, a fintech company that provides digital payments infrastructure to businesses and banks, puts the share of card-based payments at 50%, so the reality is probably somewhere in between.

The same PPRO report states that the card market in the Middle East is split between Visa with 37 percent and Mastercard with 29 percent. The rest of the market is divided between American Express and other card providers.

E-Wallets Are On Track To Become The Most Popular Payment Method

In recent years, electronic wallets, or e-wallets for short, have emerged as strong contenders in the Middle East payment services market. It’s estimated that their use for e-commerce payments will grow from 17% in 2021 to 26% in 2025, and they are also becoming more popular when it comes to in-person payments.

E-wallets provide a number of key advantages compared with traditional payment cards, including:

• Greater Convenience: A single e-wallet can store multiple payment cards and sometimes even other payment methods.
• Enhanced Security: Unlike traditional payment cards, e-wallets can be easily protected with sophisticated biometric authentication.
• Faster Transactions: A payment made using an e-wallet is typically processed faster than a traditional card transaction.

The growth of e-wallets in the Middle East is in line with the global trend towards digital wallet adoption. According to a study by Juniper Research, the number of unique digital wallet users worldwide is expected to exceed 4.4 billion by 2025, up from 2.6 billion in 2020.

The Most Popular E-Wallets In The Middle East

Here are some of the most popular e-wallets in the Middle East. At the top of the list are apps developed by major global players, but there’s also no shortage of apps developed by local companies that cater to the region’s unique needs.

#1- Apple Pay

Apple smartphones are in the hands of many people across the MENA region. In Saudi Arabia, for example, Apple’s share in the mobile market is around 42%. It shouldn’t then come as a surprise that Apple’s own e-wallet, called Apple Pay, is so popular.

Launched in the UAE in 2017 and Saudi Arabia in 2019, Apple pay has since expanded to several other Middle Eastern countries, offering a seamless payment experience for Apple users. The contactless payment technology is supported by most major banks, and it takes full advantage of Apple’s Face ID technology for biometric authentication.

#2- Google Wallet

Google Wallet, formerly known as Google Pay, is another popular e-wallet in the Middle East. As the default e-wallet for Android devices, Google Wallet has a huge user base in the region, and it’s supported by a growing number of major banks, including Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic, Mashreq, and others.

Google wants its e-wallet app to be a complete replacement for physical wallets, offering users the ability to store multiple payment methods, including credit and debit cards, as well as loyalty cards and event tickets. Some Android devices come with the Google Wallet app preinstalled, and the users of those devices that don’t come with it can install it from the Google Play Store app.

#3- Samsung Wallet

Samsung is the world’s largest Android phone manufacturer, and it has relatively recently launched its latest e-wallet app, called Samsung Wallet, in 13 new markets this year, including several Middle Eastern countries such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE.

Just like Google’s own e-wallet, the Samsung Wallet app makes it easy for users to store everything from payment cards to travel passes, driver’s licenses, and student IDs. All sensitive information stored inside the wallet is protected by Samsung’s security platform, Samsung Knox, which stores data in an isolated environment, making it impossible for Android malware to touch it.

#4- e& money (By Etisalat)

Developed by Etisalat, the 18th largest mobile network operator in the world by the number of subscribers, e& money is the first digital wallet licensed by the Central Bank of UAE, and its goal is nothing less ambitious than to revolutionize the financial experience of UAE citizens and residents through its innovative super app marketplace.

Indeed, the e& money app can be used for international and local money transfers (over 200 countries are supported), merchant and bill payments, paying parking fees, gifting, and more. To use it, you need a valid Emirates ID and mobile number.

#5- klip (By Emirates Digital Wallet)

Owned and operated by Emirates Digital Wallet LLC (EDW), klip describes itself as a digital cash platform. It aims to reduce the use of cash in the UAE and support the government’s digital transformation initiatives. klip is backed by 16 UAE national banks, and it gives all other banks the opportunity to integrate their systems with it.

To use klip, users need to register through their bank (if it’s a partner bank) or directly with Emirates Digital Wallet. UAE residents who don’t have a bank account can register using a mobile number instead.

#6- Payit

First Abu Dhabi Bank’s Payit e-wallet has become a popular choice for users in the UAE, offering a wide range of features that streamline daily transactions. The digital payment service is available to anyone with a valid Emirates ID.

Users can use Payit to easily withdraw cash from ATMs, make local bank transfers within 24 hours, and effortlessly split dinner bills among friends with just a few taps on their smartphones. In 2021, the company behind the e-wallet partnered with omni-channel conversational commerce platform Platx to enable merchants to collect payments through WhatsApp.

#7- Careem Pay

Careem Pay, the financial services arm of the widely popular Middle Eastern ride-sharing app Careem, introduced its peer-to-peer digital wallet in 2022. The app makes it possible for its users to send, request, receive, and store money with just a phone number, personal QR code, or personal payment link.

Developed in partnership with First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) and Magnati, the digital wallet has been authorized by the UAE’s Central Bank. While currently available only in the UAE, Careem plans to expand the service to other countries in the Middle East in the near future.

No Shortage Of Alternative Digital Payment Methods In The Middle East

In addition to the rise of e-wallets, the Middle East has also seen the emergence of several alternative digital payment methods, each meeting different needs of the region’s consumers and businesses.

Global online payment solutions like PayPal and Payoneer make it easy for people in the Middle East to send and receive money across borders, and they are especially popular among freelancers and entrepreneurs. Both PayPal and Payoneer also provide mobile apps that allow users to manage their finances on the go.

No article about digital payment solutions in the Middle East would be complete without mentioning cryptocurrencies. According to the 2022 Global Crypto Adoption Index, MENA-based users received $566 billion in cryptocurrency from July 2021 to June 2022, a 48% increase from the previous year.

The growing popularity of cryptocurrencies in the Middle East can be attributed to the region’s favorable regulatory environment and robust infrastructure. In Dubai, for example, all transactions involving virtual currencies and digital tokens are regulated by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).

Middle Easterners use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum as decentralized alternatives to traditional banking systems, but they also recognize the potential of these digital assets as investment opportunities.

Conclusion

We hope that our guide to the most popular digital payment solutions in the Middle East has helped you gain a better understanding of the region’s diverse and rapidly evolving financial landscape. The growth of e-wallets alongside more traditional card-based payment methods, as well as the emergence of alternative payment methods like cryptocurrencies, showcase the region’s willingness to embrace technological advancements and respond to the evolving needs of its population.

The post A Guide To Digital Payment Methods In The Middle East appeared first on Tech Magazine.

Our list of the top best video games set in the Middle East features 10 critically acclaimed titles ranked by their Metacritic scores.

#1- Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015)

Metascore (Xbox One): 95/100

Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox 360, and Xbox One

Location: Afghanistan and the Angola–Zaire border region

Genre: Open-world action-adventure stealth video game

Few games can match the sheer depth and complexity of Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. Everything in this game is designed to keep players on the edge of their seats and provide them with around 50 hours of core gameplay. The game’s lead designer, Hideo Kojima, turned the Afghani countryside, villages, and mountains into a huge playground where players can explore, experiment, and engage with the game’s systems in a variety of often surprising and funny ways.

#2- Prince of Persia: The Sands Of Time (2003)

Metascore (PlayStation 2): 92/100

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, GameCube, Game Boy Advance, and Xbox

Location: Ancient Persia (now modern-day Iran)

Genre: Action-adventure video game

Despite not claiming the top spot, we believe that the 2003 reboot of the Prince of Persia franchise represents the enchanting qualities of the Middle Eastern region better than any other game. Unlike the original Prince of Persia from 1989, The Sands of Time immerses with its (at the time) beautiful 3D graphics, atmospheric soundtrack, and dynamic combat. The game is set in ancient Persia, where the Prince and his army attack a Maharaja’s palace, inadvertently releasing the Sands of Time, transforming most people into savage monsters under the control of the Sultan of Azad.

Note: A remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time is currently in development.

#3- Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception (2011)

Metascore (PlayStation 3): 92/100

Platforms: PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4

Location: Multiple locations across the Middle East

Genre: Action-adventure video game

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception takes players on an unforgettable journey across multiple locations in the Middle East, including a bustling market in Yemen, a hidden city in Syria, and a desert oasis in the Rub’ al Khali. The game’s stunning visuals, motion capture animations, and immersive storytelling make players feel like they are part of a thrilling Hollywood blockbuster. If you love games that blend action with exploration and light puzzle-solving, then this one will put a big smile on your face.

#4- Journey (2012)

Metascore (PlayStation 3): 92/100

Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, iOS, and Microsoft Windows

Location: Unknown desert in the Middle East

Genre: Indie adventure game

Journey is an indie adventure game with simple yet often breathtaking graphics. The game has you exploring an unknown desert in the Middle East, where you can encounter mysterious creatures, stumble upon ancient ruins, and even meet other players. With no dialogue or explicit narrative, it’s up to players find out what’s going on and make sense of the memorable experience that has been praised by a myriad of video game critics.

#5- Assassin’s Creed I (2007)

Metascore (Xbox 360): 81/100

Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Microsoft Windows

Location: The cities of Jerusalem, Acre, and Damascus

Genre: Open-world action-adventure video game

In the original Assassin’s Creed action-adventure video game, you step into the shoes of the elusive and deadly assassin, Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, as you go on a series of stealthy (and sometimes not-so-stealthy) missions set in the bustling cities of Jerusalem, Acre, and Damascus. When released in 2007, the game dazzled players with its detailed open-world design, allowing them to freely explore and interact with the game’s beautifully realized cities. Many other Assassin’s Creed games have been released since then, giving us one of the most beloved and successful franchises in gaming history.

Also Read: DDoS Attacks Are A Growing Threat In Gaming

#6- 1979 Revolution: Black Friday (2016)

Metascore (PC): 80/100

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android, Microsoft Windows, and macOS

Location: Iran

Genre: Narrative-driven adventure drama

1979 Revolution: Black Friday is a masterful narrative-driven adventure drama set during the Iranian Revolution. The game places players in the role of a photojournalist who is caught up in the events of the revolution as tensions mount between protestors and the oppressive regime. Following a familiar narrative-driven formula popularized by Telltale Games, the game presents players with often difficult choices intended to challenge their morality and values.

#7- Spec Ops: The Line (2012)

Metascore (PlayStation 3): 77/100

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, Linux, Xbox 360, and macOS

Location: Fictional version of Dubai

Genre: Third-person shooter video game

This third-party shooter video game isn’t just one of the best video games set in the Middle East (a fictional version of Dubai, to be more specific); it’s also an underrated hidden gem that forces players to confront the brutal realities of war. While it may not have received the highest Metascore, Spec Ops: The Line is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who plays it, and you can buy the game for next to nothing during major seasonal sales on Steam, Microsoft Store, and PlayStation Store.

#8- Pharaoh: A New Era (2023)

Metascore (PC): 79/100

Platforms: Microsoft Windows

Location: Egypt

Genre: City-building video game

While Pharaoh: A New Era has only recently been released, it’s already making waves in the city-building genre because it’s a remake of the original Pharaoh (1999), a brilliant city builder that garnered mainly positive reviews. The remake brings to the table beautiful graphics, a carefully crafted soundtrack, and many quality-of-life features that make it far more accessible than its predecessor. Unfortunately, the game is still quite buggy, but the developers are actively working on addressing these issues. In a few months, it could be a must-buy for all players who love games that are set in the Middle East.

#9- Serious Sam 3: BFE (2011)

Metascore (PC): 72/100

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch

Location: Egypt

Genre: First-person shooter video game

Serious Sam 3: BFE is a bombastic and over-the-top first-person shooter that delivers an intense and satisfying experience. As Sam “Serious” Stone, you battle waves of enemies as you progress through 10 chapters set in Egypt. What’s great and unique about this shooter is that you can experience it together with up to 4 friends locally on one screen or with up to 16 friends online. Once you get tired of Serious Sam 3: BFE, you can check out Serious Sam 4 and its standalone expansion Serious Sam: Siberian Mayhem, which are set in France, Italy, and Russia.

#10- Disney’s Aladdin (1994)

Metascore (PC): Not Rated

Platforms: originally released for DOS and later remastered for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows

Location: the fictional city of Agrabah, which is located somewhere in the Middle East

Genre: Side-scrolling platform game

Disney’s Aladdin is a charming side-scrolling platform game that follows the plot of the beloved animated film of the same name. The game was first released in 1994, and you can still play the original DOS version on basically any major platform using DOSBox, a free and open-source DOS emulator. If that sounds like too much hassle to you, then the remastered version of Aladdin included in the Disney Classic Games Collection is just what you need to embark on an adventure to rescue Princess Jasmine from the clutches of the evil sorcerer Jafar.

The post Top 10 Best Video Games Set In The Middle East appeared first on Tech Magazine.

Because a single case of data loss can be a devastating experience for businesses and individuals alike, many data recovery services now operate in the Middle East, to help recover lost data quickly, efficiently, and, in some cases, quite affordably.

Since the minimization of the delay between data loss and data recovery is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome, we’ve compiled a list of the best data recovery services available in the Middle East so that you can start the data recovery process as soon as possible.

Our list includes only the most reputable data recovery service providers in the region, so you can pick any provider you want and rest assured, knowing your data is in good hands.

Bahrain

Hyper-Tech Solution

Location: Road 2116, Block 321, Building 1507D, Office 24, Hoora, 321, Bahrain

Bahrain’s Hyper-Tech Solution has been in business for over 25 years. Over the years, it has served tens of thousands of customers and achieved a respectable data recovery success rate of 98%. The company provides a no-data-no-fee guarantee, ensuring that you only pay if you get your data back.

The experienced team of data recovery professionals employed by Hyper-Tech Solution is equipped with state-of-the-art tools, allowing it to address a wide range of data loss scenarios and recover lost data quickly and efficiently.

Hex Technology

Location: Shop G692, Building 692 814, Road 99, Isa Town, Bahrain

Hex Technology was founded in 2007 by engineers with decades of experience in data recovery. Since then, it has been using its experience to recover lost data from all kinds of devices, including hard-disk drives, solid-state drives, USB flash drives, RAID arrays, mobile phones, and memory cards.

You can visit Hex Technology in person, give the company a call, or get in touch with them on Skype or WhatsApp. Because Hex Technology has a data recovery success rate of 96%, there’s a really good chance that your data will be recovered on the first try.

Cyprus

Data Revive Lab Services

Location: 43 Larnakos Avenue Aglantzia, 2101, Cyprus

Easily the best-rated data recovery service in Cyprus, Data Revive Lab Services helps companies and individuals alike retrieve lost data from all consumer devices.

Unlike some of its rivals, Data Revive Lab Services is well-equipped to also repair physical damage, including issues with water ingress, power surges, broken connectors, or dropped hard drives, just to give a few examples. Customers can conveniently track the progress of their work orders through Data Revive’s online tracking system, which provides regular updates on the status of the data recovery job.

DataBackNow

Location: Andrea Avraamidi 13, Nicosia, Cyprus

Boasting a data recovery success rate of 98.5%, DataBackNow is another highly reputable data recovery service provider in Cyprus that specializes in physical and logical data recovery from virtually all storage devices.

On its website, DataBackNow lists many data loss situations the company is equipped to help customers with. The list includes accidental and malicious physical damage, malware attacks, corruption, issues with storage devices not being recognized, and more.

Egypt

Alsafwa Data Recovery Egypt

Location: Ahmed Oraby, Zagazig, Ash Sharqia, Egypt

At the time of writing this article, Alsafwa Data Recovery Egypt has received nearly 200 positive reviews on Google alone, with its professional approach, punctuality, and affordable prices being mentioned quite frequently.

Alsafwa Data Recovery Egypt is based in Zagazig, which is located approximately an hour and a half by car from Cairo, the capital of Egypt. The data recovery service operates during all days of the week except for Friday.

DataRecoveryEgypt

Location: 17 Al Bustan St, Bab Al Louq, Abdeen, Cairo, Egypt

DataRecoveryEgypt has helped more than 7,500 customers recover lost data from HDDs, SSDs, RAIDs, memory cards, USB flash drives, laptops, desktops, smartphones, and tablets. The company has a data recovery success rate of 97%, which is a testament to its expertise.

In addition to its data recovery services, DataRecoveryEgypt also provides a data backup solution whose purpose is to prevent data loss from occurring in the first place.

Iran

Iran Hard

Location: Sanaee Street, Tehran, Iran

Iran Hard stands out with its 18+ years of experience and more than 5,000 successfully performed data recoveries. The service accepts both straightforward data recovery jobs involving recently deleted files or accidentally formatted storage devices, but it can also handle more complicated data loss scenarios involving RAID and NAS devices, virtual drives, and physical damage.

The FAQ section of Iran Hard’s website states that around 70% of people who come to the company walk away with their data successfully recovered. The good news is that it takes Iran Hard just 2 to 4 hours to evaluate a storage device and decide if it’s recoverable or not.

Clinic Hard Iran

Location: Mansour Street, Tehran, Iran

Clinic Hard Iran was founded in 1991, making it the first data recovery service in the country. The company’s team of seasoned technicians has helped thousands of customers recover their valuable data from a range of storage devices, including internal HDDs and SSDs, removable external storage devices, and RAID arrays.

As a pioneer in the field of data recovery in Iran, Clinic Hard Iran is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to customer satisfaction. The company continues to innovate and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the industry to provide its clients with the best possible service.

Israel

Recoverli

Location: Arye Shenkar St, Petah Tikva, Israel

Anyone who’s looking for a reputable data recovery service in Israel should check out Recoverli, the most popular and well-rated data recovery company in the country.

Recoverli can restore lost data from all commonly used storage devices, including old and damaged CDs and DVDs. Standard evaluation of data recoverability doesn’t cost anything and takes up to 3 days, but you can also pay extra for expedited evaluation.

Tic Tac Data Recovery Israel

Location: HaTa’as St 10, Ramat Gan, 5251249, Israel

Tic Tac provides professional data recovery services for all types of storage devices and to all types of customers. In fact, the company’s customers include even the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Defense, and the Israel Police.

Thanks to Tic Tac’s no data = no money policy, customers never have to spend any money without actually getting some data back. This approach has enabled Tic Tac to perform over 100,000 recoveries since 1995 and complete them with a success rate of 97%.

Jordan

Bayanata

Location: Wasfi Al-Tall, Building #73, Office #305, Amman, Jordan

Bayanata is a competitively priced data recovery service in Jordan whose goal is to ensure that the needs of each and every customer are met promptly and efficiently.

Bayanata customers are charged only if their data is successfully recovered, so they don’t have to pay anything for unsuccessful attempts. That doesn’t happen often, however, because the data recovery service is equipped with the latest technology, allowing it to solve even more complicated cases of data loss.

True Cloud DATA RECOVERY

Location: Wasfi Al Tal St. PC Plaza Complex No. 84, Amman, Jordan

True Cloud DATA RECOVERY has been in business since 2015, and the company has successfully restored more than 680 TB of data with a success rate of 96%.

You can contact True Cloud DATA RECOVERY if you need to recover lost data from any storage device, and you can even take advantage of its emergency on-site service to get back your lost data within 24 hours.

Kuwait

UNIX GTC

Location: Hawally Ibin Khaldoun St Walla Complex, Mezanin Floor, Kuwait

UNIX GTC technicians operate inside certified Class 100 clean rooms, which allows them to take apart sealed hard drives and perform complicated recoveries involving the repair of physical damage.

For over 14 years, UNIX GTC has been providing forensic data recovery services to law enforcement agencies in Kuwait, so you know that you can trust it even with your most sensitive data.

Micron Computer Center-Kuwait

Location: Hawalli, Ibn Khaldoon St, Near Moc Donalds Zaina Comp,No2, Shop No. 3, Kuwait

Micron Computer is another popular data recovery service in Kuwait that offers a range of services to recover lost data from any type of storage device. The company provides free evaluation and consultation, 24/7 customer support, and operates in a clean room environment with the latest tools and equipment.

With a no data – no charge policy, customers can be assured that they won’t have to pay if data cannot be recovered. Micron Computer also offers transparent and fair prices, with no hidden costs during the data recovery process.

Lebanon

CITS Data Recovery Lebanon

Location: Souraty, Idris Building 1st floor, Office 108, Beirut, Lebanon

CITS Data Recovery Lebanon is a national leader in data recovery services with over 30 years of experience in the field. The company is equipped to recover data from all storage devices, and does so quickly and professionally.

Thanks to state-of-the-art equipment and highly experienced technicians, CITS Data Recovery Lebanon can recover even badly damaged storage devices, and it guarantees full data confidentiality, so you can rest assured that your personal information will be safe throughout the recovery process.

DATAPLUS

Location: HQ Building, Saeed Fraeiha Street, Hazmiyeh, Lebanon

DATAPLUS is another leading data recovery service provider in Lebanon (and several other countries). The company offers a free evaluation and quote for all of its customers without requiring an appointment.

DATAPLUS has streamlined its data recovery process into four easy steps to ensure efficient and reliable service. You can visit the company’s YouTube page to watch a video that explains the entire data recovery process in detail.

Oman

Space Data Recovery

Location: #108, First Floor, Azaiba Mall, Muscat, Oman

Space Data Recovery is dedicated to providing professional and secure data recovery services to consumers, businesses, and government organizations in Oman.

The data recovery service operates on a no data no charge policy and guarantees 100% data security and privacy. Based on customer reviews on Google, Facebook, and Local Guides, Space Data Recovery is the top-rated data recovery service provider in the country.

Speed Computers

Location: Souk Al Ghubrah St, Muscat 133, Oman

Speed Computers can recover data from these and other devices: desktop computers, laptops (PCs and Macs), internal and external hard drives, RAID arrays, smartphones, and tablets.

Knowing that data loss is a complex problem that requires complex solutions, Speed Computers has invested in the latest tools to tackle a wide range of data loss situations, including those involving physical damage.

Qatar

Dataplus Network Solutions (DNS)

Location: Building No: 212, Room 11, Second floor, Rawdat Al Khail St, Doha, Qatar

The list of storage devices that Dataplus Network Solutions will happily recover is as extensive as the experience of its technicians, and it includes even zip disks, virtual images, and tape drives.

In order to ensure that the company is equipped to recover data from all types of devices, DNS has made a commitment to maintaining a quality management system that emphasizes continuous improvement in every way.

Microserve Data Recovery

Location: Unit 9, Al Rayyan Complex Al Rayyan Road 150, Musheireb 13, Doha, Qatar

For over 20 years, Microserve Data Recovery has been offering reliable data recovery services in Qatar. Its no fix, no fee policy ensures that customers only pay for successful data recoveries.

Customers can contact Microserve via phone or email for a fast quote and diagnosis of their storage device. Microserve has a proven track record of successfully performing more than 6,000 data recoveries, so there’s no data recovery scenario it hasn’t encountered before.

Saudi Arabia

LostData

Location: Computer City, Shop #92, 3892 Palestine, Al-Rehab, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

If you’re looking for a reputable data recovery service in Saudi Arabia, then you should consider LostData. The company started in 2013, and it’s now the only data recovery service in Saudi Arabia with IACRB Certification.

LostData’s technicians work in a certified ISO Class 10 cleanroom environment, where they use the latest data recovery tools and techniques to recover data from damaged or partially destroyed hard drives, RAID arrays, SSDs, and removable media, and other storage devices.

DataRescue

Location: Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah Road, Ar Rawdah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

DataRescue has nearly 100 positive reviews posted on Google, with customers praising its responsiveness, professionalism, and ability to work with devices old and new.

Recognizing that data privacy is highly important to its customers, DataRescue implements strict access controls to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information by third parties, and its own technicians are trained to follow best practices for handling confidential data.

Turkey

MyDISK

Location: Flat Ofis Binası Haliç, Otakçılar Cd. No:78 K:1 D: Blok No:15, Istanbul, Turkey

MyDISK is a Turkey-based data recovery service that has been in business for 28 years, making it one of the most established players in its niche. With a focus on customer satisfaction, MyDISK has served over 40,000 customers to date.

MyDISK operates a Class 100 clean room facility, which is a sterile work environment that provides excellent conditions for data recovery. Customers can track their orders online 24/7 and receive real-time status updates.

PITS Global Data Recovery Services

Location: Vedat Günyol cad., Defne sk., NO:1, FLORA RESİDENCE, Kat:12, D:1201, 34750 Küçük Bakkalköy, Istanbul, Turkey

PITS International Data Recovery Services offers advanced data loss solutions for individuals and businesses with a 99% success rate. The company offers free assessments, a money-back guarantee, and 24/7 customer service.

The data recovery service follows such international security and management protocols as ISO 9001, ISO 27001, ISO 10002, and ISO 45001 to protect its customers’ data throughout the entire data repair process and achieve the best possible results.

United Arab Emirates

LifeGuard Data Recovery

Location: Bayat Center S25 Computer Street, Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE

LifeGuard Data Recovery is a top-rated data recovery service based in Dubai. The company can collect your storage device, recover lost data from it, and then send the recovered data to you on encrypted media. There are no hidden fees to worry about because LifeGuard Data Recovery has a fully transparent pricing structure.

Besides getting your lost data back, LifeGuard Data Recovery operates one of the most reliable computer repair services in the UAE. The company’s skilled technicians can repair both PCs and Macs, covering a wide range of different issues, from software malfunctions to hardware failures.

Angel Data Recovery Center

Location: Dubai Internet City Building 10, Office 106, Al Sufouh 2, Dubai, UAE

Angel Data Recovery Center‘s reputation for providing reliable and efficient data recovery services has made it a trusted partner for many prominent clients. Its clientele includes Amana Contracting & Steel Buildings, United Arab Emirates G.H.Q. Armed Forces, and Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority, among others.

One of the reasons why Angel Data Recovery Center is the preferred choice of these clients is its expertise in handling complex data recovery cases. By combining proprietary techniques, cutting-edge software, and state-of-the-art hardware, the data recovery service can succeed where others have failed.

When Should I Send My Device To A Data Recovery Service?

The above-listed data recovery services can turn nightmarish data loss situations around by professionally recovering your lost files, but they’re not your only option because DIY data recovery software exists.

Software like Disk Drill, EaseUS Data Recovery, and PhotoRec empower regular home users to get back files even if they’ve been emptied from the Recycle Bin or Trash, formatted, or lost to file system corruption.

When choosing between professional data recovery services and DIY software applications, it’s helpful to consider the following factors:

• Severity Of Data Loss: If your device has suffered physical damage after being dropped or submerged in water, then it’s likely in such a poor state that your computer can’t even recognize it. To recover it, it’s necessary to first repair the damage, and that’s not something you should ever attempt to do at home unless you know exactly what you’re doing. Instead, you should send the device to data recovery professionals.
• Time Sensitivity: Do you need to retrieve your data as soon as possible? Then DIY data recovery software can be downloaded and used in just a couple of minutes, so it makes sense to start with it — you might just get lucky. On the other hand, professional data recovery services that provide expedited emergency options will keep you waiting for approximately 12 to 24 hours.
• Familiarity With Computers: DIY data recovery software requires some level of technical expertise and familiarity with computers. At the very least, you need to know how to install an application and follow its step-by-step data recovery process. If you’re not comfortable with technology, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
• Budget Constraints: Most DIY data recovery applications and professional services will tell you if your data is recoverable for free. If it is, then you can expect to pay around $100 if you decide to take the DIY route with a commercial application. The cost of professional data recovery is much more difficult to estimate because it can vary greatly from one data loss case to the next, and it ranges from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Conclusion

In summary, data recovery services are great for those who need to address severe data loss situations or retrieve their data with minimum effort required, but they can be costly. DIY data recovery software is readily available and affordable, but it’s not always usable, such as when dealing with physical damage.

The post Best Data Recovery Services In The Middle East appeared first on Tech Magazine.