As I sit down to write this week’s column, I am filled with a sense of joy and excitement about being back in the [[Middle East and North Africa (MENA)]]. After spending some time in [[Southeast Asia]], I have recently been stationed in Dubai, the hub for many industries in the [[United Arab Emirates (UAE)]]. This move has brought me closer to both cherished friends in [[Oman]] and the thriving business pulse of the region. One of the most significant advantages of my return to the region is the opportunity to revisit Oman, a place that holds a special place in my heart. It's not just about the stunning landscapes or the warm hospitality; it's the people and the connections I've forged over the years. Being a stone's throw away from Oman now means that I can easily hop on a flight - or take the stunning drive - and reconnect with dear friends, creating memories that transcend borders and time zones. However, my relocation to Dubai isn't solely driven by personal connections. The Middle East is rapidly evolving, becoming a hub for innovation and technological advancements. I recently attended my first event since my move, a presentation that delved into the latest developments in blockchain and web3 technology. The event was a testament to the region's commitment to staying at the forefront of the tech revolution. In the coming month, the [[GCC]] is set to host a plethora of blockchain and web3-related events, and I'm excited to keep you updated on the latest news and trends in this industry. Blockchain technology, in particular, has the potential to reshape various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and supply chain management, offering opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive. Speaking of technology trends, it's worth noting that the landscape of the tech industry is shifting. In the past year, we witnessed a wave of layoffs in the tech sector, particularly among junior developers. While some might attribute this to underperforming big tech companies, there's a more nuanced story to tell. The rise of AI is subtly creeping into the job market, slowly taking over certain roles traditionally held by junior developers. Today, to develop an app, someone with a brilliant idea and a clear understanding of software architecture can leverage [[Artificial Intelligence (AI)]] to handle the fundamental tasks. While this might raise concerns about job displacement, it also democratizes app development. Anyone with a vision can now build and deploy applications, ushering in a new era of innovation and entrepreneurship. This technological shift is further amplified by improvements on the infrastructure side. Technologies like [[Bun 1.0]] have not only accelerated the internet experience but also empowered aspiring developers. Additionally, the widespread penetration of [[5G]] technology has significantly enhanced internet performance, opening up a world of opportunities. As we look to the future, it's clear that technology will continue to be a driving force in our lives, but it's evolving under a different lens. This region is poised to play a pivotal role in this transformation, thanks to its innovative spirit and commitment to embracing change. My return to the Middle East represents not just a personal journey but a professional one as well. I am thrilled to be part of this dynamic and ever-evolving region, and I'm eager to share with you the remarkable opportunities and innovations that lie ahead.