Paymentology has entered into a referral partnership with Zand Bank to provide fintechs and startups in the UAE with crucial financial services. This collaboration aims to support the UAE’s digital economy by offering infrastructure, compliance support, and services like BIN-sponsorship and virtual IBANs, helping new businesses scale efficiently.
OpenSignal’s report on mobile network experience across Africa reveals vast differences in speed and quality. South Africa leads in download speeds, while many countries face challenges with inconsistent service. Reliance on outdated 2G and 3G networks and high “no signal” time further exacerbate these disparities, underscoring the need for infrastructure improvements.
Saudi Arabia’s CST has announced the winners of the Spectrum Auction for mobile telecommunication networks, including STC, Mobily, and Zain. The auction will contribute over 25 billion SAR to the GDP by 2030, boost digital infrastructure, and make Saudi Arabia a leader in mobile network spectrum among G20 countries.
M360 MENA 2024 in Doha will bring together leaders from the mobile, technology, and policy sectors to drive digital transformation across the Middle East and North Africa. With a focus on AI and 5G, the event will address key challenges and opportunities to shape a resilient digital future for the region.
Pakistan’s telecom and digital sectors face a growing cybersecurity threat, with 720 malware attacks, 550 phishing incidents, and significant activity from APT groups like Gamaredon and Lazarus. These attacks target critical infrastructure, urging enhanced security measures to protect the country’s digital economy and national security.
Oman’s telecommunications sector has seen significant changes with a 23% increase in postpaid mobile subscriptions and growth in broadband usage. Despite a decline in prepaid subscriptions and traditional fixed-line services, mobile broadband and high-speed internet subscriptions continue to rise, reflecting the country’s shift toward modern digital infrastructure.
Morocco is set to grant licenses to Starlink and OneWeb for satellite internet services in 2025, aiming to improve connectivity in remote areas. Starlink offers speeds from 100 to 500 Mbps and low latency, providing a solution for hard-to-reach regions. However, challenges include high costs and satellite deployment.
Orange Middle East & Africa’s Deputy CEO, Brelotte Ba, discussed network resilience improvements following major subsea cable cuts in March 2024. Ba highlighted the need for robust terrestrial networks to support Africa’s growing connectivity demand, which is crucial for economic growth and technology ecosystem development across the continent.
India hosted the 25th SATRC summit, highlighting its leadership in the digital sector. Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia emphasized India’s digital growth, projected to reach 20% of GDP by 2026. The summit brought together South Asian telecommunication leaders to discuss issues like digital inclusivity, sustainable infrastructure, and innovation in the sector.
Mobile Telecommunications Company K.S.C.P. reported third-quarter sales of KWD 500.61 million, a rise from KWD 485.11 million last year, with net income increasing to KWD 54.12 million. For the nine months, sales grew to KWD 1,445.46 million, but net income dropped to KWD 135.53 million.
