Digital financial technologies in the Middle East and North Africa region: modern trends

Abstract

According to the World Bank experts, the widespread adoption of digital technologies in the countries of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) will bring huge social and economic benefits amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars a year, and a much – needed surge in new technologies and job creation. While the Middle East is far behind when it comes to digital transformation, better logistics, tax incentives, free zones and innovative ideas have propelled the region into new uncharted innovation spaces. From Metaverse and free zones to e@commerce and many others, the region is truly entering a «Golden Age» of digital adoption. Initially slow in adopting digital technologies, governments have made huge strides in helping their regions catch up with and even outperform many global markets including Western countries. Now, a range of investments, such as the 2023 launch of the Metaverse Academy in Saudi Arabia and Dubai, is taking the Middle East and Africa to new heights and creating many opportunities for digital retailers and business communities.