Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia continues to lead global cybersecurity rankings, recognized as a Tier 1 role model by the UN’s ITU. The Kingdom’s national cybersecurity authority and strategic partners drive robust cyber defenses and technology localization, supporting economic development and international collaboration aligned with its digital transformation strategy.
MSCI has upgraded stc group’s ESG rating from BBB to A in 2025, recognizing its leadership in sustainability, governance, and cybersecurity. This places stc in the top third of global telecom firms, reflecting its advances in data privacy, risk management, and adherence to high ESG standards across its diverse operations.
Microsoft Qatar has appointed Ahmad El Dandachi as General Manager, succeeding Lana Khalaf who moves to lead the public sector for Microsoft Middle East and Africa. El Dandachi brings extensive regional leadership experience and will focus on accelerating Qatar’s digital transformation aligned with national strategies. Khalaf’s impactful tenure is marked by her advocacy for inclusive innovation and regional technology leadership.
Qatar’s Kahramaa has installed nearly one million smart electricity and water meters as part of a broad project to digitize the country’s utility infrastructure. These meters provide real-time monitoring, automated billing, and fault detection while supporting sustainability and operational efficiency aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Pakistan has taken a major step in regulating its digital assets ecosystem by establishing the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA). This new independent body will license and oversee virtual asset providers, enforce AML protocols, and align with global standards. The move reflects Pakistan’s ambitions to become a South Asian digital assets hub following recent crypto policy developments.
PTCL Group and Huawei have deployed an advanced 5G-ready Digital Indoor System combined with high-speed FTTH at Islamabad’s Sukh Chayn Residence, pioneering Pakistan’s first luxury 5G-ready residential complex. This collaboration enhances connectivity quality and user experience, marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital lifestyle evolution.
Oman’s Royal Oman Police is deploying an AI-powered, smart traffic monitoring system to reduce accidents by influencing driver behavior and rigorously enforcing traffic laws. The system combines automated camera surveillance with human oversight, traffic points penalties, and data-driven accident analysis to enhance road safety nationwide.
Lenovo is expanding its AI-powered product range and market presence in Sri Lanka, introducing hybrid AI PCs and software designed for privacy and productivity. Supported by strong global partnerships and retail reach, Lenovo targets diverse user segments and aims to drive South Asia’s AI revolution through accessible and secure digital technology.
The UAE has emerged as the Middle East’s leading crypto hub, attracting record inflows driven by strong youth adoption and institutional interest. Regional countries like Saudi Arabia and Oman are following suit with growth and sustainable mining initiatives. The digital asset ecosystem is maturing rapidly, fueled by innovative technologies, regulatory clarity, and growing demand for decentralized, transparent, and energy-conscious crypto solutions.
Oman ranks fourth among developing nations in attracting foreign investment for digital infrastructure projects from 2020 to 2024, reflecting its growing role as a regional technology hub. Through national initiatives like the AI and Advanced Digital Technologies Programme, Oman is accelerating its digital transformation and aiming for a significant increase in the digital economy’s contribution to GDP by 2040.