Green Data & Digital Infrastructure: Saudi data centre firm DataVolt secured $150M to build a 12MW facility in Tashkent (TAS-1), due online in late 2026, with plans to expand via additional 250MW centres and potential tenants like Beeline Uzbekistan. Soil Tech & Carbon Capture: Wa’ed Ventures-backed Terraxy raised $3M to scale CarboSoil, a desert soil regeneration and carbon storage solution born from KAUST research, ramping production at a Zulfi facility and testing via the MEWA regulatory sandbox. AI Governance in the Boardroom: A survey of 400+ directors found Saudi Arabia leading AI governance engagement, with 68% of directors actively deciding what should stay human-led vs AI-led. Space & Stargazing Near AlUla: Heatherwick Studio’s AlUla Manara astrotourism centre is set to open with a 4-metre main telescope, plus smaller scopes, exhibitions and a stargazing lodge. Energy Security Watch: With the Strait of Hormuz reopened after a US-Iran pause, analysts warn depleted reserves could make future disruptions harder to absorb. Saudi-France Industry Talks: Saudi and France expanded mining and industrial cooperation under Vision 2030 during Vision Golfe 2026 in Paris. Tech in MENA Safety: TikTok reported major enforcement actions across Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the region, including removing millions of videos and suspected under-13 and fake accounts. World Cup Heat Debate: Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa slammed FIFA’s hydration breaks as changing football’s culture, while matches continue under severe conditions.