Brief

eVoost AI, an artificial intelligence company based in the UAE, has successfully secured $2.2 million in a funding round. This capital infusion will support the company's global expansion efforts. The funding was reported by Wamda and highlights the growing AI sector in the UAE. AI

The United Arab Emirates is implementing a system-wide defense against quantum computing threats. Their new tool, CDT, will map and monitor critical national infrastructure to establish future security standards. This initiative positions the UAE as a global leader in preparing for the quantum computing era. AI

The United Arab Emirates is prioritizing artificial intelligence as a national infrastructure, akin to roads and power grids, according to a new report. This strategic approach, detailed by INSEAD and Yango, highlights how Abu Dhabi and Dubai are integrating AI as a foundational element of their economies. This initiative marks a global first in treating AI as a state-level infrastructure project. AI

The UAE has been drawn into openly acknowledging defense ties with Israel, despite preferring discretion. This exposure occurred after US Ambassador to Israel, Mick Huckabee, confirmed the deployment of Israeli Iron Dome air defense batteries to the UAE to protect against Iranian attacks. Further complicating matters, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office revealed his secret visit to the UAE in late March to meet with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a meeting Netanyahu's office described as a "historic breakthrough." AI

Oil prices have decreased significantly following indications of a potential U.S.-Iran deal to end their conflict. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy chokepoint, has been a major factor in recent price hikes and global economic strain. While a de-escalation could ease immediate pressures, experts caution that the full restoration of oil flows and market stability may take months or even years. AI

The United Arab Emirates has deported over 7,500 Pakistani Shiite Muslims since late February, coinciding with the escalation of the Iran war. These individuals report being unable to retrieve their belongings or savings before deportation, leading to significant financial and personal distress. While Pakistani officials acknowledge receiving thousands of deportees and are reviewing the situation, they have not openly addressed the issue with the UAE due to diplomatic sensitivities. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment on the deportations, and Pakistan's interior ministry stated that deportations are based on regulatory violations, not religious sect. AI

Singapore Airlines is strategically increasing its long-haul flights to Europe, aiming to capture market share from Gulf rivals like Emirates and Qatar Airways. This move is enabled by the airline's strong financial position, effective fuel hedging, and the current disruptions affecting other carriers due to Middle East conflict and high fuel prices. Analysts suggest this presents a limited opportunity for Singapore Airlines to solidify its presence as a premium alternative for Asia-Europe travel. AI

China has initiated construction on a significant US$5 billion aviation complex in Dubai South, United Arab Emirates. The project, spearheaded by the state-owned firm CRCC, will feature eight large aircraft maintenance hangars spanning over 1.2 million square meters. Completion is anticipated by 2030, underscoring deepening China-UAE infrastructure cooperation despite lingering regional conflict risks. AI

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed that any agreement to end the conflict with Iran should mandate that several additional countries join the Abraham Accords. During a conference call with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan, and others, Trump urged them to normalize relations with Israel. While some leaders expressed surprise, Trump indicated that his envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff would follow up on this initiative in the coming weeks. AI

The U.S. Treasury Department has imposed new sanctions targeting Iran's financial sector and its oil trade. The sanctions are aimed at an Iranian exchange house, Amin Exchange, and its network of front companies across multiple countries, which allegedly facilitate billions in foreign currency transactions to help Iran evade sanctions. Additionally, 19 vessels involved in shipping Iranian petroleum and petrochemicals have been blocked. AI

Amazon's data centers in Bahrain and the UAE have sustained damage from Iranian drone and missile attacks, leading to extended downtime for its ME-CENTRAL-1 and ME-SOUTH-1 regions. The company estimates repairs will take several months, during which billing for affected customers has been suspended. Amazon is advising clients to migrate resources to other regions and restore data from backups due to the ongoing conflict and potential for further disruptions. AI

President Trump announced he is halting a planned military strike on Iran, citing ongoing negotiations and requests from Middle Eastern allies. He stated that while serious talks are underway, the military remains on standby for a potential large-scale assault if a deal is not reached. This decision comes after Iran submitted an updated proposal that the White House deemed insufficient, increasing expectations of an imminent strike. AI