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The AI Revolution in E-commerce: How Technology is Rewriting Commerce Rules?

Ufuk Tarhan | Business Futurist • Economist • Strategist • Independent Board Member • Author • Keynote Speaker

E-commerce isn’t just a digital version of retail anymore; it’s a new dimension of commerce, powered by intelligence. The rise of AI isn’t just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift that is rewriting the rules of how we buy and sell. The businesses that understand this will thrive, and those that don’t will become relics.

AI Effect: E-commerce’s New Reality

AI’s impact on e-commerce is a mixed bag of powerful upgrades and subtle trade-offs. On the plus side, it’s a personalization machine. AI analyzes vast amounts of data to offer hyper-personalized recommendations and dynamic pricing, making every customer feel like a VIP. It also streamlines operations, with AI-powered logistics and inventory management reducing costs and speeding up delivery. Chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 customer service, handling routine queries with superhuman efficiency. .

However, the future isn’t without its glitches. The biggest con is the loss of the human touch. While a chatbot is efficient, it can’t offer empathy or creative problem-solving like a human. There are also significant concerns about data privacy, as AI relies on collecting massive amounts of user information. Finally, for smaller businesses, the high cost of implementation for advanced AI systems can be a major barrier to entry.

Global E-commerce Powerhouses

The world’s largest e-commerce companies are a battlefield dominated by two nations: the U.S. and China. The top of the list is held by Amazon (USA), a global behemoth that has transformed everything from retail to cloud computing. Right behind them are China’s giants: Alibaba (China), with its vast ecosystem of platforms like Taobao and Tmall, and JD.com (China), known for its robust logistics network.

Other major players include Pinduoduo (China), which has revolutionized social commerce, and Temu (China), which has rapidly expanded into global markets. While there are other major players from different countries like Shopify (Canada), the sheer scale and market share of the American and Chinese companies are unmatched.

U.S. vs. China E-commerce Showdown

When it comes to e-commerce, China is the undisputed leader. Why?

– It’s a matter of scale and innovation. China’s e-commerce market is nearly triple the size of the U.S. market, with a higher penetration rate.

– The Chinese consumer went from cash straight to mobile payments, skipping the credit card phase, which created a mobile-first, friction-free shopping culture. This is in stark contrast to the U.S. market, where e-commerce often feels like a digital extension of traditional retail.

– Chinese platforms are built on social commerce, integrating live-streaming, group buying, and gamification directly into the shopping experience. In the U.S., social commerce is still a nascent feature, often feeling “tacked on.”

– While the U.S. has Amazon’s dominance, China has a more vibrant and competitive ecosystem with multiple platforms driving intense innovation.

AI-Powered Future of E-commerce

– The future of AI-driven e-commerce is not just about better recommendations; it’s about creating invisible, seamless commerce. Imagine a world where your refrigerator automatically orders groceries based on what you’ve used, or a virtual fitting room that uses AI to perfectly size clothes on a digital avatar.

– AI will move from a tool to a core infrastructure. We will see the rise of agentic AI, where autonomous AI agents manage entire business processes, from marketing campaigns to supply chain optimization, with minimal human oversight.

– Generative AI will create unique, personalized product content and marketing assets at scale. The line between online and physical shopping will blur, as AI-powered “smart stores” offer a hybrid, hyper-efficient experience.

In short; the future of commerce isn’t coming; it’s already here. Ignoring AI is like ignoring the internet in 1999. The window to adopt and integrate these technologies is closing fast. Stop talking about “digital transformation” and start building it. Your customers are waiting for a smarter, more personalized experience, and your competitors are already learning how to provide them. The question isn’t whether you’ll use AI, but whether you’ll lead with it or be left behind.

Join the AI revolution, or watch it pass you by.

Autonomous Delivery Project Launched in Abu Dhabi in Collaboration with Noon and AutoGo

Abu Dhabi has launched an ambitious pilot project aimed at revolutionizing the logistics sector with autonomous delivery vehicles. This initiative is being led by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport. The project is carried out in collaboration with Noon, the region’s leading e-commerce platform, and AutoGo, an artificial intelligence platform and subsidiary of K2.

Autonomous Delivery Vehicles Equipped with Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Sensors

The pilot project integrates AutoGo’s autonomous delivery vehicles into Noon’s existing logistics network. It also aims to enhance the efficiency of mini fulfillment centers across Abu Dhabi. This collaboration seeks to reduce congestion, improve operational performance, and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable transportation system. The autonomous delivery vehicles, equipped with artificial intelligence and advanced sensors, are able to navigate urban areas safely and efficiently, delivering orders without human intervention.

Part of Abu Dhabi’s Efforts to Build a Smart Mobility Ecosystem

The integration of autonomous vehicles is part of Abu Dhabi’s efforts to build a smart mobility ecosystem. It also aims to strengthen the emirate’s position as a leader in digital transformation. This project aligns with Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive smart mobility strategy, which targets achieving 25 percent of all trips in the emirate through smart transport by 2040.

A Sustainable Future for E-Commerce Logistics

The introduction of autonomous delivery vehicles marks a significant shift in how e-commerce logistics will operate in the future. By improving the efficiency of last-mile deliveries, the project contributes to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing customer satisfaction. This move combines technology and logistics, marking an important step toward creating a more seamless and sustainable future for e-commerce and smart mobility in Abu Dhabi.

Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of ITC, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: “This pilot project highlights the effective application of innovative technologies that enhance sustainability and improve the quality of life in the community.”

Khalid: A Critical Step Toward Redefining the Future of E-Commerce Logistics

Following the success of the pilot, AutoGo, Noon, and ITC plan to expand the program to more neighborhoods and offer a wider range of products. Full commercial operations are expected to begin in the near future, setting a new standard in the region’s logistics and e-commerce sectors.

Faraz Khalid, CEO of Noon, expressed excitement about the collaboration, saying: “Our partnership with ITC and AutoGo is a critical step toward redefining the future of e-commerce logistics. This pilot project not only strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional leader in smart transport, but also sets a new standard for innovation in the logistics sector.”

This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustainable innovation and aims to maintain the emirate’s pioneering position in autonomous delivery vehicle integration and smart mobility.

Abu Dhabi Unveils Its First Licensed Driverless Delivery Pods in Masdar City

Boeing Unveils Next-Generation E-Commerce Platform

Boeing has taken a significant step in its digital transformation by launching a next-generation e-commerce platform that consolidates its distribution products and services into a single online hub. The new site represents a major advancement in Boeing Distribution’s strategy to modernize operations, enhance customer experience, and facilitate supplier collaboration.

The e-commerce platform brings together all the products and services that were previously scattered across Boeing Distribution and the former Aviall websites. Customers now have access to the full product catalog, real-time inventory information, and a complete set of parts and services with a single login. The system also offers AI-powered smart search features to accelerate product discovery and improve order efficiency. These innovations will be applied to customers in commercial aviation, business and general aviation, vertical lift, and defense sectors.

Significant Improvements in Boeing Distribution Operations

This launch comes after a year of major improvements in Boeing Distribution’s operations. These improvements include reduced Aircraft on Ground (AOG) service response times, an optimized customer support model, and the implementation of a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that increases data integration and enables more efficient service delivery.

“The New E-Commerce Platform Is a Major Milestone”

William Ampofo, Senior Vice President of Parts & Distribution and Supply Chain at Boeing Global Services, stated, “We are committed to simplifying the distribution experience and becoming the preferred partner for customers and suppliers worldwide. The new e-commerce platform is a significant milestone in that mission and strengthens the foundation for our long-term growth.”

“We Are Building a Modern and Connected Distribution Network”

Travis Sullivan, Vice President and General Manager of Boeing Distribution, emphasized that the digital transformation process will continue: “Innovation, operational excellence, and deeper supplier collaboration will drive the next phase of our integration journey. We are building a modern and connected distribution network to ensure we deliver the parts and services our customers need, whenever and wherever they need them.”

With its upgraded platform and renewed digital strategy, Boeing aims to set a new standard in aviation distribution and offer a faster, smarter, and more integrated online experience to its global customer base.

Letter of Intent Worth 3.5 Billion Dollars from the United Kingdom for Al Maktoum International Airport

International investment momentum for the expansion of Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport continues to strengthen. The UK Export Finance (UKEF) has issued a Letter of Intent worth 3.5 billion dollars.

A major boost for Dubai’s aviation future was announced today at Dubai Airshow 2025. The UK Export Finance (UKEF) issued a 3.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent to support the participation of UK companies in the 35 billion dollar expansion project of Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

The Letter of Intent Was Presented by the UK Minister of Trade Bryant

The Letter of Intent prepared for Al Maktoum International Airport was presented at a ceremony held at the Dubai South stand during the Dubai Airshow. The document was handed over by the UK Minister of Trade Sir Chris Bryant to H. E. Eng. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, and Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports. The ceremony was attended by the British Ambassador to the UAE Edward Hobart, senior executives from Dubai Airports, DACC, DAEP and Dubai South, officials from the British Embassy in the UAE, visiting ministerial delegations, aviation sector stakeholders and members of the international media.

This development marks the first international letter of intent of its kind issued for the DWC mega project and demonstrates strong global confidence in Dubai’s long-term aviation strategy and economic vision. It also reflects the increasing international interest in one of the most significant airport infrastructure projects of this generation.

Bryant: Al Maktoum International Airport Creates Significant Opportunities for British Suppliers

Speaking at the ceremony, Sir Chris Bryant said: “This Letter of Intent for up to 3.5 billion dollars issued by UK Export Finance represents an important milestone that once again strengthens the longstanding partnership between the United Kingdom and Dubai and its pioneering world-class infrastructure projects. Al Maktoum International Airport is set to redefine the future of global aviation, creating significant opportunities for British suppliers to showcase their advanced technologies.”

Zaffin: Our Focus is to Strengthen the Vision of Making Dubai the Aviation Capital of the World

H.E. Eng. Khalifa Al Zaffin stated: “The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport is being carried out through a structured programme integrating advanced engineering, resilient design and long-term planning. This step provides valuable international support to a project built on technical standards and a disciplined implementation framework. Our focus is to strengthen the vision of making Dubai the aviation capital of the world by creating the infrastructure that will unlock the next stage of Dubai’s aviation growth.”

Anani: We Welcome the Participation of UK Suppliers in the Process

Suzanne Al Anani said: “This Letter of Intent reflects strong international confidence in the engineering-led and disciplined delivery of the Al Maktoum International Airport expansion. As the master developer and engineering authority for the project, DAEP is focused on clear technical specifications, modular construction, sustainability and resilient infrastructure that will serve Dubai for decades. As we move into the next phases, we welcome the participation of qualified UK suppliers through our procurement frameworks.”

Griffiths: The Letter of Intent Adds International Momentum and Will Connect Communities

Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths described this development as an important milestone for the project and stated: “The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rethink how an airport should function and how the journey of the future should feel. This Letter of Intent adds international momentum to a project that will transform capacity, connect communities and provide a new level of experience for hundreds of millions of passengers. The long-term vision for Al Maktoum International Airport is clear and the support announced today strengthens our ability to realise it.”

An Airport Designed for the Next 50 Years of Aviation Growth

The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport will deliver an airport designed for the next 50 years of aviation growth. The initial phase, expected to be operational in the early 2030s, will have an annual capacity of 150 million passengers, with long-term plans to increase this figure to 260 million. The project’s emphasis on innovation, sustainability and integrated transport systems will further strengthen Dubai’s position as a global gateway for people, commerce and the future of mobility.

Abu Dhabi Hosts $55 Billion Infrastructure Roadshow for Turkish Investors

Jeff Bezos Introduces New Artificial Intelligence Venture Project Prometheus

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is stepping into the world of artificial intelligence with a vision that differs from the traditional technology approach. His new venture, Project Prometheus, was launched with $6.2 billion in funding. This amount makes Project Prometheus one of the best-funded early-stage artificial intelligence startups in the world.

Project Prometheus marks a departure from Bezos’ previous e-commerce-focused endeavors. The venture deeply focuses on areas such as robotics, advanced manufacturing, and space infrastructure. Leading the initiative as co-CEO alongside physicist Vik Bajaj, Bezos aims to develop AI systems capable of performing physical tasks, which goes far beyond digital applications.

Project Prometheus Targets Physical Artificial Intelligence Solutions

While many AI companies are involved in digital tasks, Project Prometheus has adopted a different approach. The company plans to develop AI agents capable of performing real-world tasks, ranging from robotics to manufacturing processes. This “physical AI” approach responds to the growing belief that general intelligence must be connected to the physical world. Bezos’ interest in space infrastructure also aligns with the long-term goals of Blue Origin, and Project Prometheus could become a key player in off-world exploration and technology.

Bezos Will Take His First Official Operational Role Since 2021

Jeff Bezos’ new venture enters a competitive field, with other tech giants such as OpenAI, DeepMind, and Google making significant investments in AI systems for the physical world. However, Project Prometheus has a notable advantage in terms of funding and leadership. With Bezos’ proven track record in capital-intensive projects and a team selected from top AI research labs, the venture is well-positioned to be a significant player in the emerging field. As competition intensifies, the integration of AI into industrial applications could be the game-changing factor that sets Project Prometheus apart from others.

Jeff Bezos left his role as CEO of Amazon in 2021. This will be the first time he takes on an official operational role in a company since then. The board of directors of ProjectPrometheus also includes Jack Altman, brother of Sam Altman, former president of Y Combinator.

Jeff Bezos Predicts Huge Societal Gains from AI Amid Growing Investment Bubble

Dynamics Unveils The Authority™: A Revolutionary E-Commerce Platform for Collectors

Dynamics Inc., a leader in security and technology innovations within the collectibles industry, has introduced The Authority™, the world’s first real-time, vertically integrated, multi-category e-commerce platform for collectibles. This groundbreaking platform allows collectors to vault, purchase, authenticate, grade, sell, and fulfill collectibles within minutes.

In another industry-first, Dynamics has also launched the Universal Public Grading Standard™, providing collectors with clear and consistent grading criteria for the first time. This standard enables collectors to confidently evaluate their items before submission, offering transparency and consistency in the grading process.

“The golden age of collectibles is happening right now,” said Jeffrey Mullen, CEO of Dynamics Inc. “This is a revolutionary ecosystem for collectors across the industry. Collectors will now have full access to the exact criteria behind each grade, enabling them to assess a collectible’s potential with confidence.”

The Authority™ Launches with Over 9 Million Collectibles

The Authority™ has launched with over 9 million vaulted and authenticated collectibles, including trading cards, TCGs (Trading Card Games), comics, and figurines. With this vast inventory, the platform has become the largest authenticated vaulted marketplace in the world. The platform allows collectors to buy, sell, and trade items in a secure environment, offering a unique grading system that ensures consistent and reliable results.

How Items are Added to The Authority™ Platform

Instant Transfer from Participating Retailers: By selecting Vault With The Authority™, items are instantly transferred into the user’s Authority account. These items can then be listed for sale in the Authority Marketplace, graded using Reveal Grade™, or shipped directly to the user’s home.
Shipping Items to The Authority™: Collectors can also ship their items directly to The Authority™. Once received, the items are authenticated, graded, encapsulated, and vaulted, making them available for sale, grading, or shipment. Collectors may also choose to vault trading cards in their raw state without using the authentication and encapsulation service.

Key Features of The Authority™:

Dynamic Buy/Sell Marketplace: The unique multi-item private offer system allows collectors to make a single monetary offer for multiple collectibles. Responding collectors can adjust the offer amount or the items included, facilitating seamless negotiation. Once agreed, ownership transfers instantly.
Real-Time Retailer Integration: Collectors can instantly transfer eligible collectibles from participating channel retailers directly to com. Items are immediately vaulted for secure storage and available for retail without any shipping.
Instant, Standardized Grading: Items sold through retailers are pre-graded and encapsulated. Once the item is transferred, buyers can instantly reveal its grade. During fulfillment, the collectible’s encasement is permanently modified to include the grade.
The Authority Vault: Purchased items are indexed, tagged, and securely stored in a state-of-the-art vault. They can be physically fulfilled at any time.
Social Marketplace: Collectors can interact with one another through private messaging and public forums.
0% Retailer Withdrawal Fee: Collectors can use proceeds from sales on The Authority™ to shop from selected retailers with no withdrawal fee.
Submit Any Item: The Authority™ allows collectors to submit any type of item to be graded, tagged, and vaulted. New encapsulation cases for additional collectible categories will be introduced in the future.

Affordable Services for Collectors

As of November 18, collectors can instantly transfer selected purchased items from participating retailers or mail their items to The Authority™ to utilize its services. Items submitted for authentication are encapsulated in RFID-embedded cases, each containing a unique identification number, QR code, and barcode for verification.

The service is priced affordably for collectors. Grading and encapsulation services start at just $1.25 for trading cards and TCGs, $1.50 for comics, $3.50 for figurines, and $10.00 for memorabilia. Full pricing details are available on the platform’s website: The Authority Submission Fees.

With The Authority™, Dynamics Inc. is reshaping how collectors interact with their items, providing a revolutionary platform that combines security, ease of use, and innovative grading and trading solutions.

About Dynamics Inc.

Dynamics has three business units – an electronics, security and safety, and collectible business unit. The Company’s electronics division has introduced market defining electronics products such as the world’s first high-volume flexible consumer devices. During the pandemic, the Company’s security and safety division worked with NIAID biodefense to be the first group in the world to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) using optical energy.

Since 2012, Dynamics has also developed collectible platforms and technologies that have managed over 500 million collectibles. Dynamics operates multiple manufacturing facilities with its Global Headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pa., APAC headquarters More information on the company, its technology and applications can be found at www.dynamicsinc.com.

About the Authority™

The Authority is the world’s first real-time retailer integration, encapsulation, grading, buy/sell marketplace, and fulfillment all on a single platform. The Authority is the first trusted, vaulted marketplace for pre-authenticated trading cards, TCGs, comics, figurines, memorabilia, and associated CoAs. www.TheAuthority.com.

Kroger Restructures E-commerce Strategy; Closes Automated Fulfillment Centers

Supermarket giant Kroger announced significant changes to its e-commerce strategy in order to increase digital profitability by $400 million by 2026. The company revealed it will close three automated customer fulfillment centers (CFCs) in January. This move is part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and boost profitability.

Kroger, the largest supermarket operator in the U.S. and the country’s fifth-largest general retailer, will close centers in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin; Frederick, Maryland; and Groveland, Florida. The company will incur a $2.6 billion write-off as a result of these closures. These facilities were part of Kroger’s collaboration with UK-based automation specialist Ocado, which began between 2021 and 2023, but they failed to deliver the expected profitability.

Kroger’s E-commerce Segment Struggles to Be Profitable

Despite reporting consistent increases in digital sales since early 2022, Kroger’s e-commerce segment has failed to achieve profitability. Interim CEO Ron Sargent emphasized that these changes are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the digital business. Sargent stated, “E-commerce is a key part of serving customers who want better value, wide selection, and flexible shopping options. We are taking decisive steps to make shopping easier, offer faster delivery times, and provide more options to our customers.”

Kroger to Integrate Instacart’s New AI-powered Shopping Technology into Its Mobile App

As part of its future strategy, Kroger plans to shift its delivery operations from dedicated automated centers to in-store fulfillment. The company aims to pilot “capital-light, store-based automation” in high-volume markets, using its existing store network to meet the growing demand for faster and more efficient delivery.

In addition to in-store fulfillment, Kro ger is deepening its partnerships with third-party e-commerce providers. The company plans to expand its collaboration with Instacart, making it the primary delivery provider for Kroger’s app and website. Kroger will also integrate Instacart’s new AI-powered shopping technology into its mobile apps, enabling customers to interact with an AI agent to build their shopping baskets.

Kro ger’s partnerships with DoorDash and Uber are also expanding; DoorDash will provide delivery services from over 2,700 stores, and the Uber partnership will be expanded in early 2026.

Kroger Aims to Increase E-commerce Profitability by $400 Million Annually by 2026

Kro ger is targeting an annual increase of $400 million in e-commerce profitability by 2026. As part of this plan, the company will continue to leverage the remaining CFCs in high-demand areas to enhance customer engagement, productivity, and profitability.

The company has launched a comprehensive site-by-site analysis of its automated fulfillment network to optimize its operations. Despite the challenges faced by its e-commerce division, Kro ger reported strong digital sales growth, with a 16% increase in e-commerce sales in its most recent earnings report, leading its overall sales growth alongside its fresh products and pharmacy departments.

This restructuring aims to reshape Kroger’s approach to digital retail by combining in-store fulfillment with strategic third-party partnerships, enhancing customer service and achieving sustainable profitability.

Kroger Establishes a New E-Commerce Unit

Abu Dhabi Hosts $55 Billion Infrastructure Roadshow for Turkish Investors

Abu Dhabi introduced over $55 billion worth of infrastructure projects to Turkish investors at a major roadshow event held in Ankara. Organized as part of the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS), the event showcased more than 600 projects across housing, transportation, education, and agricultural sectors.

The roadshow, organized by the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Center (ADPIC), aims to establish long-term partnerships and collaborations between Abu Dhabi and Turkish companies. The event focused particularly on modular construction, transportation infrastructure, and complex engineering projects. A delegation from AbuDhabi, led by Eng. Maisara Mahmoud Salim Eid, participated in the event, symbolizing the strong desire for collaboration between the two regions.

40,000 Homes to Be Built Using Modular Construction in Abu Dhabi

One of the key announcements at the event was AbuDhabi’s plan to build 40,000 homes using modular construction techniques over the next five years. Mohammed Yousef Al Hosani, Executive Director of ADPIC, emphasized the critical role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in realizing this major project and highlighted the significant opportunities it presents for Turkish expertise in construction and engineering.

Al Hosani also noted that AbuDhabi’s leadership views infrastructure development as a key tool for creating identity and culture, aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy. He emphasized that infrastructure projects are not just about asset creation, but also about building sustainable, efficient communities that support long-term prosperity.

Strong Presence of Turkish Companies in the UAE’s Infrastructure Sector

Müfit Eren, President of the Turkish Contractors Association, emphasized the strong presence of Turkish companies in the UAE, stating that Turkish contractors have completed 150 projects worth $19 billion in the UAE alone. These projects span a wide range of sectors, including tourism, housing, roads, bridges, tunnels, and airports.

Turkish companies have completed approximately 13,000 projects in 137 countries, with a total value of nearly $547 billion. Eren pointed out that Turkish firms have carried out around 2,400 projects worth $139 billion in the Middle East, reflecting the high demand for their expertise in the region.

Turkish Companies Well-Positioned to Play a Key Role in Abu Dhabi’s Future

Eng. Maisara Mahmoud Salim Eid called for joint investment opportunities, advocating for the establishment of long-term partnerships based on mutual benefit and sustainable development. The roadshow emphasized that Turkish companies are well-positioned to play a key role in Abu Dhabi’s future housing, infrastructure, and urban development projects.

The Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit roadshow will continue in Istanbul on November 19–20, where further discussions on potential collaborations will take place. This event marks a significant milestone in strengthening the ties between AbuDhabi and Türkiye, paving the way for shared growth and innovation in the infrastructure sector.

About the Roadshow

The Abu Dhabi International Roadshow for Capital Projects and Infrastructure is taking place on 17–20 November. Türkiye İMSAD is among the partner institutions of the “Abu Dhabi International Roadshow for Capital Projects and Infrastructure,” which will be held in Türkiye between 17–20 November 2025.

Aimed at showcasing Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure projects, developments in the construction sector, and large-scale investment opportunities, as well as establishing strong collaborations and partnerships between companies in Abu Dhabi and Türkiye, the roadshow is led by His Excellency Engineer Maysarah Mahmoud Salim Eid, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre.

A distinguished delegation composed of senior officials from various Abu Dhabi Government entities and executives of leading companies will participate in the roadshow. The delegation will meet with industry representatives in Ankara on 17–18 November and in Istanbul on 19–20 November.

Building on the momentum of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS 2025)—which drew 4,000+ attendees from 100+ countries and saw 15 partnership agreements signed—the AbuDhabi International Roadshow for Capital Projects & Infrastructure brings Abu Dhabi’s vision and opportunities to three strategic hubs in Asia and Europe.

Hosted by ADPIC, the roadshows highlight major projects, government initiatives, and future plans, while enabling direct engagement with developers, contractors, infrastructure providers, architects, consultants, financiers, and investors. By bringing Abu Dhabi’s vision to Singapore, Ankara, and Istanbul, the series invites global industry leaders to co‑create the emirate’s next phase of smart, sustainable growth.

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Alibaba Launches Qwen App to Expand Its Consumer AI Presence

Alibaba has officially unveiled the Qwen App, an AI-powered personal assistant aimed at transforming user experiences by integrating artificial intelligence into daily life. Powered by the Qwen3 AI model, the app goes beyond simple conversations, positioning itself as a personal assistant capable of handling complex tasks.

The beta version of the Qwen App is now available for free to users in China across iOS, Android, web, and PC platforms. This marks Alibaba’s most significant step into the consumer-facing AI market. The company plans to release an international version of the app for users outside China in the near future.

A Personal Assistant That Does More Than Just Chat

Positioned as a “smart personal assistant that not only chats but gets things done,” the Qwen App is designed as a comprehensive AI tool for daily life. Utilizing the top performance of the Qwen3 model, the app extends beyond basic conversations to offer advanced functionalities in deep research, AI-assisted coding, AI-powered camera features, voice calls, and more.

One of the app’s standout features is its remarkable task execution ability. For example, users can command the app to prepare a detailed research report and then automatically generate a polished, multi-slide PowerPoint presentation—all within seconds. This functionality showcases the practical power of the Qwen3 model in real-life applications.

Qwen, Alibaba’s Significant Investment in AI

The launch of the App marks an important milestone in Alibaba’s ongoing AI strategy. Earlier this year, the company announced plans to invest a total of RMB 380 billion (approximately $53 billion) over the next three years into AI infrastructure, the development of foundational AI models, and AI-driven applications. This focus on accelerating AI integration across Alibaba’s various business sectors underscores the company’s commitment to transforming its operations and services through artificial intelligence.

In the coming months, Alibaba plans to integrate lifestyle and productivity services such as digital maps, food delivery, travel booking, office tools, e-commerce, education, and health guidance directly into the Qwen App. This strategic approach will enable the app to handle a wide range of real-world tasks, positioning it as a comprehensive work and life companion.

The Future of AI-Powered Personal Assistance

The launch of the Qwen App represents a revolutionary step in moving beyond simple conversational tools to become a powerful, proactive work and life partner. With its ability to perform complex tasks and integrate with a variety of services, Alibaba is positioning the Qwen App as a game changer in the consumer AI market.

As the company continues to enhance and expand its AI capabilities, the Qwen App is set to become a vital tool for users, offering a technology-driven experience that makes life easier, safer, and more efficient.

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noon payments and NEOPAY Introduce the First AANI Instant Payment System

In a significant development for digital payments in the UAE, noon payments, in collaboration with NEOPAY, has launched the AANI Instant Payment System. This revolutionary solution simplifies, accelerates, and secures payment processes for merchants across the country. AANI, the first of its kind in the UAE, is seen as a crucial step in the country’s transformation in the digital payment sector.

AANI Instant Payment has been developed in alignment with the UAE’s broader financial modernization goals, particularly in parallel with the UAE Central Bank’s Financial Infrastructure Transformation (FIT) program, and supports the national Al Etihad Payments initiative. This collaboration aims to drive financial innovation and create a more efficient and secure digital economy.

AANI Ensures Instant Payment Collection

The AANI platform allows merchants to collect instant payments from their customers via mobile numbers, email addresses, or QR codes. This system provides a seamless and effortless payment experience for both businesses and consumers. Customers authorize payments directly through their banking apps or the AANI app, ensuring fast, secure, and reliable transactions.

AANI Utilizes NEOPAY’s AI-Powered Solutions

The new system offers merchants the ability to receive instant payments, improving cash flow and significantly reducing delays in payment processing. Using NEOPAY’s expertise in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered solutions, AA NI helps businesses achieve better cash flow management while lowering transaction costs compared to traditional payment methods.

Gadia: noon payments Empowers Businesses with Digital Payment Solutions

Mosam Gadia from noon payments stated, “At noon payments, we are committed to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with smarter, faster, and more cost-effective digital payment solutions. AANI Instant Payments supports businesses in the UAE, while also aligning with the Central Bank’s vision for financial innovation.”

Pradhan: We’ve Enabled AANI in E-Commerce

Abhijit Pradhan from NEOPAY highlighted AANI’s role in the evolution of digital payments in the UAE: “Our collaboration with noon payments and Al Etihad Payments represents a significant milestone in the UAE’s digital economy. By enabling AA NI in e-commerce, we are offering businesses real-time, secure payment solutions while also supporting the country’s vision for a cashless future.”

Andrea Cianchetti from Al Etihad Payments added that the new system simplifies the process for both customers and merchants: “AANI makes paying and receiving payments incredibly simple. Customers no longer need to share card details; they can complete payments instantly using just a mobile number or QR code. For merchants, this means smoother transactions, faster access to funds, and an overall better customer experience.”

Supporting E-Commerce in the UAE

AA NI Instant Payments promises to revolutionize e-commerce in the UAE by offering merchants a faster and more efficient alternative. With its AI-powered features and commitment to secure transactions, AANI is shaping the future of digital payments. This development increases financial accessibility and supports economic growth in the region.

The collaboration with leading partners like noon payments and NEOPAY represents a significant step towards establishing the UAE as a global hub for digital commerce and innovation.

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