As part of its ongoing efforts to support digital transformation in the Arab region and promote the use of emerging technologies in development sectors, ESCWA organized three events in November, focusing on leveraging modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain, to advance sustainable development and enhance the efficiency of vital sectors, particularly tourism and digital services.

On 25 November, ESCWA, in collaboration with the Agency of Digital Development (ADD) in Morocco, organized an online workshop on the impact of digital and emerging technologies for the future of development sectors, with tourism as a model. The workshop highlighted the concrete impact of AI, immersive technologies, and other emerging tools, and showcased selected initiatives from within and outside the Arab region, while discussing potential applications in Morocco.

Earlier, ESCWA organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Transformation and Modernization of Administration (MTNMA) in Mauritania, two hybrid consultative workshops.

The first, held on 19 November, focused on developing a national regulatory framework for the internet of things (IoT). Participants discussed the initial draft with the aim of enriching and updating it in preparation for its official adoption. They also discussed the key impacts of IoT and explored regulatory mechanisms to support relevant national initiatives.

The second workshop, held on 20 November, was dedicated to developing a national blockchain policy. Participants reviewed the current draft to update and prepare it for formal adoption, while emphasizing the potential of blockchain to enhance transparency and improve the efficiency of public services. Representatives from public institutions involved in the implementation of national digital projects took part in the discussion.

Through these three activities, ESCWA reaffirms its commitment to supporting member States in building enabling digital environments and enhancing their readiness to harness the technological revolution in the service of sustainable development and future economies.