Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Qatar Airways unveiled an Arabic-enabled version of Sama, the world’s first AI digital cabin crew, at ATM 2025 in Dubai. The airline also introduced a virtual reality tour of Hamad International Airport and showcased its Qsuite Next Gen. Additionally, QA announced increased summer flights and signed new tourism partnerships.
Deemah AlYahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), highlighted Pakistan’s upcoming presidency of the DCO in 2026 as part of its strategy to become a global digital leader. The country’s IT sector continues to grow, with exports aiming to surpass $4 billion by the end of FY2025.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced $700 million in foreign investment for Pakistan’s IT sector at the DFDI-2025 conference. He emphasized the country’s digital potential, driven by its young population, and highlighted collaborations with companies like Huawei. Pakistan’s growing influence in the global IT landscape was also acknowledged at the event.
Dr. Saira Siddique’s healthcare tech start-up, MedIQ, has raised $6 million to expand its AI-driven platform that connects insurers, healthcare providers, and patients. Following its success in Pakistan, MedIQ is now expanding into Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and other GCC markets, aligning with healthcare modernization goals in the region.
Oman Data Park has partnered with Bug Bounty Oman to enhance the country’s cybersecurity infrastructure. This collaboration aims to establish a secure vulnerability disclosure channel and empower local cybersecurity talent, aligning with Oman’s Vision 2040 to accelerate digital transformation and ensure national security in the digital age.
WiFi Nepal has launched its new 100 Mbps fiber internet service, offering affordable pricing and a Dual Band router. The plan is available for 12 or 24-month terms, aimed at meeting the growing digital needs of households and small businesses in Nepal while maintaining transparency and customer satisfaction.
TSMC has announced plans for its 1.4 nm chip technology, set to improve power handling by 30% and performance by 15%, offering 60% greater efficiency than current 3 nm chips. The technology, expected to enter production in 2028, will power future products from Apple, Nvidia, AMD, and others.
GITEX Africa 2025 exceeded expectations, attracting over 52,000 visitors, including global tech leaders and 740 startups, with 260 of them from Morocco. The event reinforced Morocco’s position as a key digital hub in Africa, showcasing the continent’s growing momentum in digital transformation and technological investment.
Ookla’s report reveals Morocco’s rapid progress in fixed broadband infrastructure, with fiber deployments improving network performance ahead of major events like the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Hotels in key cities show impressive Wi-Fi speeds, enhancing Morocco’s appeal as a digital tourist destination.
Jordan and Kazakhstan are exploring a strategic partnership in digital innovation and the aviation industry. The Kazakh delegation, led by ministers from Kazakhstan, held discussions with Jordanian institutions on collaboration in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, space technologies, and UAV solutions, emphasizing bilateral cooperation to boost economic and technological growth.