Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Tunisia’s three major mobile operators have applied for 5G licences, with approval expected in three weeks. The Ministry of Communication Technologies will review the applications, aiming for commercial 5G services by November. However, device compatibility remains a concern, with only 652,000 of 9 million smartphone users having 5G-capable devices.
Oman has launched the National Program for AI and Advanced Digital Technologies, aiming to enhance the digital economy and align with Vision 2040. Key initiatives include an AI research center, a national data platform, and a Fourth Industrial Revolution center, with the goal of increasing AI’s contribution to GDP.
Nepal Telecom has introduced its Dashain Offer 2081, providing enhanced internet speeds for FTTH customers and attractive mobile packs for both prepaid and postpaid users. The offer includes a 25 Mbps speed increase for fiber plans and upgraded mobile packages, available from Ashoj 13 to Kartik 23.
Userguest, a Moroccan SaaS startup, has raised $2.4 million in Seed funding led by Al Mada Ventures. The platform helps hotels optimize direct revenue with personalized visitor messages. The funding will boost Userguest’s sales team and drive product innovation for rapid growth.
Kuwait’s CITRA reported an internet disruption due to an outage in the “Falcon” submarine cable owned by GCX. The authority is coordinating with GCX and local ISPs to repair the issue and reroute traffic through alternative cables to maintain service.
Morocco has launched a digital economy strategy aiming to create 240,000 jobs by 2030. The plan includes training 100,000 youths annually and enhancing digital infrastructure. By 2030, it targets 70% 5G household access and high-speed internet for 5 million homes.
Egypt’s ICT Minister, Amr Talaat, outlined the ministry’s plans for digital transformation, focusing on electronics manufacturing, telecom infrastructure, and legislative reforms. Key laws include data classification and a national property ID system. Efforts are also underway to expand mobile coverage and modernize post offices.
e& Egypt has signed an agreement with NCTS to provide advanced telecom services via the Tiba 1 satellite. This partnership aims to enhance telecommunications in remote areas and support critical industries such as petroleum, mining, and tourism. The agreement positions e& Egypt as a pioneer in satellite-based telecom technology.
Amana Healthcare, part of the M42 group, held a groundbreaking ceremony in partnership with Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company for its new healthcare facility in Al Jasra, Bahrain. The 100-bed facility will specialize in long-term care and post-acute rehabilitation, set to open in 2025.
Techtree Innovation has partnered with Bahrain’s Aeromap Technology Systems to enhance aerial data collection, photogrammetry, and GIS capabilities. This collaboration aims to improve technological competitiveness and expand Techtree’s global presence, especially in the Middle East and the Philippines.