Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Oman has hosted the inaugural Firnas Summit, showcasing drone innovation with DJI’s regional launch of the Matrice 400. Led by the Ibn Firnas Drone Centre, the summit highlighted Oman’s ambition to be a regional drone hub, aligning with Vision 2040 and advancing smart cities, AI, and digital transformation.
Turkey is set to raise at least $2.1B through a 5G spectrum auction offering 400 MHz in the 700 MHz and 3.5 GHz bands. The move, targeting faster internet and nationwide rollout, comes as 2G, 3G, and 4.5G licenses near expiry in 2029, with 94M mobile users driving demand.
Airattix has expanded into Nepal, bringing AI-powered storage and fulfilment solutions to an import-reliant and fragmented logistics market. With 30% quarterly growth, industry recognition, and a scalable digital-first model, the company is set to transform storage, relocation, and e-commerce fulfilment across South Asia.
Nepal has signed a strategic agreement with TikTok to promote its tourism through the “Lifetime Experiences” campaign. The initiative will feature Nepal’s culture, landscapes, and adventure on a global stage while empowering local creators, marking a pivotal shift in how the country leverages digital storytelling for travel promotion.
Talabat, through its sponsorship of Academy X, celebrated the graduation of the second cohort of young women trained in AI, coding, and entrepreneurship. The initiative, led by CODED Academy, aligns with Kuwait Vision 2035 and reflects talabat’s long-term commitment to empowering female talent and driving digital innovation.
QNB has become the first bank in the GCC to enable unified digital wallet acceptance via Mastercard Gateway hosted checkout. The integration simplifies merchant onboarding, accelerates e-commerce adoption, and enhances secure digital payments, reinforcing QNB’s leadership in payment innovation and Mastercard’s vision for an inclusive digital economy.
Qatar’s CRA participated in the 31st GCC meeting on post and telecom in Kuwait, focusing on cooperation, digital transformation, and sustainable development. CRA President Ahmad bin Abdulla AlMuslemani reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to GCC integration and advancing the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Zain Jordan, through Zain Innovation Campus (ZINC), has funded AI-powered edtech platform UNIFLIX with 15,000 JOD and a year of logistical support under its “Zain Al-Mubadara” program. The initiative highlights Zain’s role in accelerating digital transformation, supporting startups, and boosting Jordan’s innovation-driven economy.
Jordan has launched the pilot of its e-passport system, starting September 1, as part of its National Digital Transformation Strategy 2026–2028. The e-passport includes biometric chips, advanced security, and faster processing, aligning with ICAO standards while transforming government services into a modern, efficient, and citizen-centric model.
Jordan has launched consultations on its 2026–2028 National Digital Transformation Strategy, focusing on digital infrastructure, e-government, and digital identity adoption. With the Sanad e-ID gaining traction in banking, the strategy aims to boost inclusion, trust, and innovation while preparing the country for an AI-powered digital economy.