Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Naver completed a vast digital twin platform for Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah, integrating 3D models and real-time data to enhance Saudi Arabia’s smart city efforts. The platform supports urban planning, disaster simulation, and regulatory compliance, with plans for national expansion and further innovation through a new joint venture.
Rabbit rapidly expanded its quick commerce footprint in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, leveraging AI and hyper-local sourcing to capture a low-penetration but high-growth market. With plans to deliver 20 million items by 2026, Rabbit’s city-centric, tech-driven model targets evolving Saudi consumer behaviors amid rising digital adoption.
GSMA’s inaugural MWC25 Doha in November 2025 will spotlight Qatar’s rise as a digital innovation hub, featuring global tech leaders and themes on AI, 5G, and smart economies. The event supports Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030 and fosters international collaboration across the Middle East.
Pakistan’s telecom sector reports strong revenue growth but a dip in tax contributions amid policy shifts. Broadband penetration and 4G coverage continue expanding, while 5G rollout and fiberisation plans advance. Cybersecurity ranks improve, supported by regulatory reforms and initiatives enhancing digital safety and network quality.
Nepal and Sri Lanka have established a comprehensive ICT partnership focusing on business collaboration, startup growth, skill mobility, cybersecurity, and policy alignment. The initiative aims to create a Digital Corridor, enhancing South Asia’s digital ecosystem and fostering innovation-driven economic growth.
Kuwait is advancing AI integration, 5G telecom infrastructure, and digital transformation initiatives to diversify its economy by 2035. Investments in smart cities and mega infrastructure support this growth, while cybersecurity programs safeguard critical systems. The cautious stance on online gambling highlights challenges in balancing innovation with societal values.
Bank al Etihad partners with ecolytiq and Visa to launch a carbon insights tool within its mobile app, offering personalized carbon footprint tracking based on card transactions. This digital innovation supports sustainable consumer behavior and aligns with Jordan’s climate commitments and global environmental goals.
eClerx has launched a new delivery center in Cairo to enhance technical support for major telecom clients, leveraging Egypt’s strategic location and talent pool. This expansion enables multilingual service delivery across US and European markets, reflecting eClerx’s 25-year commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and global growth.
Orange Egypt and Vodafone Egypt have launched the country’s first commercial 5G networks, targeting high-traffic areas and key governorates. This rollout supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 goals for digital transformation, following recent spectrum license acquisitions. Other operators, e& and Telecom Egypt, are expected to launch 5G services soon.
Redington expands its partnership with Autodesk to include Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, enhancing delivery of advanced design and engineering software across the Middle East. This collaboration aims to drive digital innovation and sustainable growth in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and media through strengthened channel support and regional expertise.