< PreviousWOMEN IN TECH 40 EDGE | March 2025 Sandra Helou is the CEO and Co-Founder of MetaMinds Group, a trailblazing company specialising in Metaverse-as-a-Service (MaaS) and SpatialWeb technologies. She has risen to prominence as one of the foremost voices and sought-after public speakers in digital transformation, Web3, and the SpatialWeb/ Metaverse industry. A strategist, futurist and marketer at heart, Sandra is deeply committed to driving innovation across industries by integrating Web3 and digital transformation. Her expertise spans the SpatialWeb (AI, XR, IoT, cybersecurity, and more), the Metaverse, Gaming and the Creator Economy, all of which are reshaping consumer behavior and fuelling brand growth across sectors. Sandra’s visionary leadership, pursuit of excellence, innovation-fi rst approach and stellar contributions have earned her recognition from several pres tigious publications, including being named among the Women of the Future – Top 100, featured in Rolling Stone’s Women Leaders Shaping Web3, and listed as one of TechRound’s Top 25 Future Players of the Metaverse. In addition to her industry accolades Sandra has shared her insights and expertise through speaking engagements and workshops at renowned venues such as the Museum of the Future, as well as top events across the UAE, KSA, Japan, and Europe, further solidifying her infl uence on the global stage. SANDRA HELOU CEO MetaMinds Group Edge_Mar2025_36-41_Women in the UAE_13540036.indd 4024/02/2025 12:18WOMEN IN TECH EDGE | March 2025 41 Nadine is a seasoned retail and tech professional and a recognised expert in entrepreneurship and technology within the Middle East. Her career spans the fashion and retail industry, the tech industry and the public sector in countries like France, Italy, Lebanon and the UAE with over 20 years in growth strategies, brand building and operational management. She co-founded Sarwa, a leading fi ntech platform, where she spearheaded growth, and helped raise over $25M in venture capital from global and regional stakeholders, including Mubadala Investment Company, ADQ, Dubai International Financial Center, 500 Global Fund and others. Nadine helped shape the retail and fashion sector in the Emirate in her role as Deputy Director for the Dubai Shopping Festival and Senior Manager in the Retail Department of Dubai Economy and Tourism, leading the Fashion initiatives. She spearheaded growth-centric projects for a diverse clientele, including government entities like the Offi ce of HH the Crown Prince of Dubai, and multinationals such as Nestlé. As Managing Director of Zuhair Murad LLC, an international fashion and couture house, Nadine led a company of over 100 employees at a very young age. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing from the American University of Beirut. She is currently a Venture Partner at Antler and a Future Fellow advisor for the Dubai Future Foundation, a program launched by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. NADINE MEZHER Co-Founder Sarwa Edge_Mar2025_36-41_Women in the UAE_13540036.indd 4124/02/2025 12:18CYBERSECURITY 42 EDGE | March 2025 Acronis, a global leader in cybersecurity and data protection, has released its fi rst-ever report, Data Privacy in 2025: A Survey on Consumer Perspectives in Cyber Protection. This report off ers a deep dive into global consumer attitudes and behaviours related to cybersecurity and data privacy. Based on a comprehensive survey, the study explores key consumer concerns, awareness of cyber threats, and the security measures individuals employ to protect their personal data. The fi ndings highlight the widespread occurrence of data breaches, the adoption of security tools such as two-factor authentication, and critical gaps in areas like mobile security and routine data backups. Notably, 64% of respondents cited data breaches as their primary privacy concern, underscoring the urgent need for stronger personal cybersecurity practices. Key fi ndings: • Data Breach Fears Alarming: Despite heightened awareness, 25% of respondents have experienced While there is awareness about organisational data security, it’s important to remember that individuals also play a crucial role in protecting data DATA PRIVACY DATA BREACH IS TOP PRIVACY CONCERN Younger consumers report signifi cantly more data breaches than older ones Words by Anita Joseph data theft or loss, and 12% remain unsure if they’ve been breached, exhibiting the hidden nature of many cyberattacks. • Solid Backup Practices: Two-thirds (66%) back up their data regularly, while 9% don’t back up their data at all. Surprisingly, 4% don’t know what backup means. • Weak Password Protection: While more than two-thirds (68%) use strong, unique passwords, often fewer than half (46%) employ two-factor authentication (2FA), a key defence against breaches. • Mobile Security Adoption Lags: Although 43% of respondents report using mobile security apps, 35% are unfamiliar with these tools, even as smartphones become essential to modern digital life. • Attitudes vs. Actions: While over 60% rate data security as “very important,” only 40% frequently update their passwords and nearly 70% continue to use public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities. • Consumer Frustrations: Nearly 30% of respondents fi nd security tools too complex to use, How often do you back up your important data? Where do you back up your data to? Edge_Mar2025_42-43_Cybersecurity_13516698.indd 4224/02/2025 12:18PARTNER CONTENT EDGE | March 2025 43 68% use strong unique passwords and 25% cite high costs as a barrier to adoption. • Generational Divide: Younger consumers (under 35) report signifi cantly more breach incidents than older demographics (55–64), potentially refl ecting riskier digital habits. • Cyber Education on the Rise: Encouragingly, video-based cybersecurity education is gaining traction, with 44% of respondents turning to online videos to learn about safety best practices. “At Acronis, we’ve seen how both corporate practices and individual behaviors indelibly shape data privacy, cyber protection,” said Gaidar Magdanurov, President. “We launched this survey around Data Privacy Day to better understand how home users think about data protection and the steps they are taking to safeguard their information. While many people are rightly concerned about how organisations handle their data, this survey highlights that individuals also play a crucial role in protecting themselves.” The report serves as a global reminder of the importance of safeguarding personal information. Insights from the survey uncover how consumers perceive digital risks and unveil areas where better education or more accessible tools are needed to strengthen cybersecurity habits. In its fi rst year, the survey uncovers a stark contrast between growing awareness of cyber threats and the lack of proactive security measures worldwide. As a call to action around Data Privacy Day, Acronis urges consumers to adopt foundational practices such as regular data backups enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), and using mobile security apps. “This inaugural consumer-focused survey from Acronis highlights a critical paradox in modern cybersecurity — individuals are increasingly aware of the risks, yet still many lack the tools or knowledge to protect themselves eff ectively,” said Gerald Beuchelt, CISO at Acronis. “Data breaches are a top concern globally so there is an urgent need for simpler, more accessible cybersecurity solutions paired with data backup, and stronger education to empower individuals to protect their digital lives. These eff orts can help bridge the gap between awareness and action,” he added. Edge_Mar2025_42-43_Cybersecurity_13516698.indd 4324/02/2025 12:19INTERVIEW 44 EDGE | March 2025 What is your overarching vision for the healthcare transformation of Saudi Arabia? How do you see the role of technology in shaping this future? Our vision is to build a world-class, patient- centered healthcare system for every member of our society, powered by technology. We see the role of technology as paramount, enabling Saudi Arabia to move to a preventive and personalised approach to healthcare, driven by data insights and innovation. By integrating advanced digital health solutions, we aim to improve patient outcomes, optimise resource use, expand health-span and foster an environment of continuous improvement across the healthcare ecosystem. Healthcare transformation is a priority for Saudi Arabia. Could you elaborate more on what specifi c initiatives are being taken by the Ministry? The Ministry of Health has pioneered several groundbreaking initiatives to modernise and digitise healthcare services across the Kingdom. Seha Virtual Hospital, fully operational since 2022, stands as a cornerstone of these eff orts, delivering Eng. Abdullah Mohammed Al-Issa, Deputy Minister for eHealth and Digital Transformation at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health discusses the Kingdom’s advanced digital health solutions HEALTHCARE /Eng Abdullah Mohammed Al-Issa SAUDI ARABIA’S DIGITAL HEALTH REVOLUTION advanced telemedicine services to patients across the Kingdom. We’ve also launched NPHIES, the National Platform for Health Information Exchange Service, which securely connects over 30 million patient profi les to provide seamless, secure healthcare access. Saudi Arabia is also advancing personalised medicine through the innovative use of the Digital Twin technology. These initiatives refl ect our unwavering commitment to establishing the Kingdom as a global leader in digital healthcare innovation. One of the fl agship initiatives is Seha Virtual Hospital, recognised as the world’s largest virtual hospital. How has this project evolved, and what has been its impact so far? Seha Virtual Hospital (SHV) is an industry- disruptive project that has revolutionized how healthcare is delivered. Offi cially recognised by Guinness World Records as the largest virtual healthcare provider in the world and the only one in the region, the hospital has an annual capacity of 480,000 patients. SHV is also the fi rst virtual hospital in the world to obtain the Canadian Diamond Category accreditation. 2022 Seha Virtual Hospital Fully Operational Edge_Mar2025_44-45_Interview_13527808.indd 4424/02/2025 12:21INTERVIEW EDGE | March 2025 45 A substantial portion of the 50 billion SAR investment announced at the 2024 Global Health Exhibition is dedicated to upscaling the digital health sector, fostering a thriving ecosystem for health tech innovation and collaboration The hospital offers 73 subservices and 29 specialised services, including critical care, neurology, cardiology and psychiatry. SVH represent a new model that improves access and quality of care for everyone, regardless of geographic location. We are extremely proud of this model and believe that it can be scaled globally and serve as an international benchmark for the future of healthcare. AI is transforming healthcare globally. What are some of the game-changing AI solutions deployed in Saudi Arabia to improve patient outcomes? AI is at the core of many of our healthcare advancements. AI is used for screening of major chronic diseases as well as diagnostics in radiology and pathology, providing faster and more accurate interpretations. AI also powers the Digital Twin technology, which is leading in providing personalised healthcare to patients. Another standout example is AI-powered stroke care at Seha Virtual Hospital, which signifi cantly cuts down treatment time to just 25 minutes compared to the global average of 60, increasing survival rates and reducing long-term complications. These technologies are empowering healthcare professionals while ensuring patients receive timely and eff ective care. What about digital technology? How is digital technology reshaping care delivery in Saudi Arabia? Digital technology is reshaping healthcare by making it more accessible, effi cient, and patient- centered. Platforms like the Sehhaty app have already facilitated over 1.6 million virtual consultations and 9.2 million virtual appointments, demonstrating how care can be delivered without the constraints of time or geography. This is supplemented by the Wasfaty application, which has administered over 40 million prescriptions, benefi tting more than 14 million people. The NPHIES platform, that I previously mentioned, enables healthcare providers to access comprehensive patient data securely and effi ciently, which improves care coordination. We’re also harnessing Digital Twin technology to provide holistic and personalised care for patients, redefi ning traditional care delivery models and fostering innovation. Looking forward, what are some of the key technology initiatives and innovations planned to further boost Saudi Arabia’s healthcare transformation and growth? We are committed to expanding Seha Virtual Hospital’s services and integrating more AI-driven solutions to enhance patient care. Strengthening our focus on personalised medicine through genomic research such as the Saudi Genome Project 2.0 and Digital Twin technology will be a priority. A substantial portion of the 50 billion SAR investment announced at the 2024 Global Health Exhibition is dedicated to upscaling the digital health sector, fostering a thriving ecosystem for health tech innovation and collaboration. We are fostering cross-sector collaborations with global technology leaders to accelerate innovation and secure the adoption of emerging technologies. Our commitment to digital health transformation presents signifi cant opportunities for startups to innovate and scale solutions in AI-driven diagnostics telemedicine, and personalised healthcare. And finally, ensuring data privacy and cybersecurity remains a central focus as we continue building a secure, scalable, and patient centered digital health ecosystem. Our aim is to keep Saudi Arabia at the forefront of global healthcare innovation. Edge_Mar2025_44-45_Interview_13527808.indd 4524/02/2025 12:19DIGITAL CULTURE 46 EDGE | March 2025 2025 As many as 11 resorts set to open Globant, a digitally native company focused on reinventing businesses through innovative technology solutions, has partnered with Red Sea Global (RSG) to create a cutting-edge digital program designed to transform the connected visitor experience at one of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious tourism destinations. The Red Sea program centers around a robust, digitally enabled ecosystem that integrates advanced technologies DESTINATION The collaboration leverages Globant’s expertise in digital innovation to deliver a seamless, immersive and personalised journey for every visitor to Red Sea Global’s world- class destination, The Red Sea. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, showcasing the kingdom’s commitment to sustainable and technologically advanced tourism. Sultan Moraished, Group Head of Technology and Corporate Excellence of Red Sea Global, said: “The Red Sea destination represents a bold vision for the future of tourism, one that combines luxury, technology, and sustainability in perfect harmony. With Globant as our partner, we are taking an important step toward delivering a connected experience that will serve as a benchmark not just for the region but for leading destinations around the world”. The program centers around a robust, digitally enabled ecosystem that integrates advanced technologies such as artifi cial intelligence, IoT and data analytics. This connected visitor experience REINVENTING SUSTAINABLE LUXURY TOURISM Edge_Mar2025_46-47_Culture-Saudi Tourism_13526504.indd 4624/02/2025 12:21DIGITAL CULTURE EDGE | March 2025 47 will provide intuitive, real-time interactions tailored to individual preferences, ensuring a truly memorable stay at The Red Sea’s luxury resorts, islands and attractions. Federico Pienovi, CBO & CEO of New Markets at Globant, stated, “This partnership with Red Sea Global demonstrates how technology can redefi ne tourism by placing the visitor at the center of an ecosystem designed for convenience, personalisation and sustainability.” The ambition of the platform extends beyond The Red Sea destination. It aims to become the gold standard for connected visitor experiences globally, making it available for adoption by destinations worldwide. This partnership will pioneer new benchmarks in digital engagement revolutionising how travelers interact with destinations and how online travel agencies work and off er customer-centric solutions. The Red Sea is a pioneering, luxury tourism destination situated on the west coast of Saudi Arabia. Its fi rst fi ve world-class resorts Six Senses Southern Dunes, The St Regis Red Sea Resort, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Shebara and Desert Rock – are already welcoming guests. The destination’s dedicated airport, Red Sea International Airport (RSI), is welcoming direct flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Dubai. A further 11 resorts are set to open throughout 2025. By 2030, when the destination reaches full completion, The Red Sea will be home to 50 resorts, 8,000 hotel rooms and 1,000 residential properties across island and inland sites, as well as luxury marinas golf courses, entertainment, F&B and leisure facilities. The destination is at the forefront of the global transition towards regenerative tourism going beyond sustainability to have a regenerative impact on the environment, society and the economy. Technology will play a key role in ensuring seamless visitor interactions while preserving the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Laura Hernandez Gonzalez, Managing Director of MENA at Globant, added: “This partnership with Red Sea Global refl ects our shared vision for innovation-driven growth in tourism. By leveraging Globant’s cutting-edge technology and deep industry expertise, we are redefi ning luxury tourism experiences enabling the region to set a global standard for excellence.” By 2030, when the destination reaches full completion, The Red Sea will be home to 50 resorts, 8,000 hotel rooms and 1,000 residential properties Edge_Mar2025_46-47_Culture-Saudi Tourism_13526504.indd 4724/02/2025 12:22GADGETS 48 EDGE | March 2025 Samsung’s latest S25 Ultra refi nes its design, tweaks the camera and bets big on AI—without raising the price Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra is here, and while it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it refi nes it. This year’s model ditches the sharp, Note-era corners for a more rounded, uniform design that brings it closer in line with the rest of the S-series. With a slightly larger 6.9-inch display, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite chip (custom-tuned for Galaxy devices worldwide), and a new 50MP ultrawide camera, the S25 Ultra delivers small but meaningful hardware upgrades. But the real story? That’s AI. Samsung is pushing One UI 7.0’s AI-driven features hard, integrating Google’s Gemini as the default assistant and rolling out new cross-app automation tools. These enhancements—along with Samsung’s promise of seven years of software updates—certainly signal a long-term bet on AI- driven convenience. Visually, the biggest change is the shift from curved edges to fl at sides, a move that makes the S25 Ultra look bulkier but actually results in a slightly smaller and lighter device. In fact, the included S Pen sticks around, but it loses Bluetooth support, meaning no more remote- controlled air gestures—just a simple stylus. The camera system is mostly unchanged, apart from the new 50MP ultrawide sensor replacing the previous 12MP module. Samsung claims improved computational photography will enhance zoom detail, and for video creators, the addition of Galaxy Log and LUT support off ers more control over color grading. Samsung’s AI ambitions are front and center. With One UI 7.0, the S25 Ultra introduces smarter automation: take a photo of an event flyer, and Gemini can add the date to your calendar while also sending a reminder to a friend. It also introduces suggested routines—automatically detecting habits, like toggling Bluetooth when you enter a car, and prompting users to set up automations. Unlike past years, these AI upgrades aren’t exclusive to the new fl agship. Samsung has committed to rolling out its AI features to older models, though it’s unclear if all updates will be free. At US$1,300, the Galaxy S25 Ultra holds its price steady from last year. It’s not a revolutionary upgrade, but with long-term software support, small refi nements, and an increased focus on AI, Samsung is clearly positioning this device as a foundation for a more intelligent mobile experience. But whether these AI features are truly transformative or just a gimmick, remains to be seen. FAMILIAR FLAGSHIP WITH AN AI-FIRST FOCUS SMARTPHONE Edge_Mar2025_48-49_Gadgets_13528743.indd 4824/02/2025 12:22GADGETS EDGE | March 2025 49 The Porsche Design Honor Magic7 RSR combines luxury craftsmanship with cutting-edge AI Honor’s collaboration with Porsche Design isn’t about slapping a logo on a phone and calling it luxury. It’s about engineering a device that refl ects the precision, speed and sophistication of Porsche’s high-performance vehicles. The Magic7 RSR is the latest result of that partnership—a smartphone that combines sleek automotive-inspired design with cutting- edge AI and hardware built for those who expect more from their technology. The design language is unmistakably Porsche. The hexagonal camera module, described as being inspired by high-performance automotive components, gives the phone a sharp, distinctive look. Its aerodynamic curves taken from the Taycan Turbo S, are meant to make it feel both premium and ergonomic in hand. Even the triple-lens camera array aligns like the headlights of a Porsche, reinforcing the brand’s infl uence in every detail. Available in Agate Grey and Provence Purple, the Magic7 RSR isn’t just another high-end smartphone—it’s designed to stand out. Performance is just as important as aesthetics. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite Mobile Platform runs the show, ensuring lightning-fast speeds and effi cient AI processing. Honor’s MagicOS 9.0 brings a more seamless experience, “integrating its Magic Portal AI hub—a system that learns your habits, automates tasks, and personalises interactions. Whether it’s streamlining workfl ows or making everyday interactions faster, AI is at the core of the Magic7 RSR’s intelligence. Google’s Gemini AI is also built-in, providing an alternative assistant for hands-free navigation, smart suggestions, and seamless connectivity. Honor has also packed in serious camera hardware. A 200MP telephoto lens with an f/1.88 aperture and a 1/1.4” sensor delivers extreme zoom capabilities with sharp detail, rivaling professional-grade cameras. The 50MP Super Dynamic Falcon main sensor and ultra-wide lens round out the system, promising stunning clarity, depth, and color accuracy. AI-enhanced features like Super Zoom, AI Motion Sensing Capture, and Harcourt Portrait Mode make professional-level photography eff ortless and quick. Beyond photography, the 6.8-inch display ensures a premium viewing experience, featuring hardware-based low blue light fi ltering for eye comfort and adaptive natural tone technology for realistic colors. Sound hasn’t been overlooked either—the HONOR Surround Subwoofer speaker system delivers deep bass and spatial audio, creating an immersive listening experience whether you’re streaming music or gaming. The Porsche Design Honor Magic7 RSR is a device that aims to blend aesthetics with cutting- edge functionality. Whether that makes it more than just another luxury smartphone remains to be seen, but Honor is certainly positioning it as an experience rather than just a product. SUPERCAR IN SMARTPHONE FORM SMARTPHONE Edge_Mar2025_48-49_Gadgets_13528743.indd 4924/02/2025 12:22Next >