Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Mobilis has launched “Cridilis,” an emergency credit service enabling subscribers to borrow 20, 50, or 100 dinars by dialing a dedicated code. The borrowed amount, plus a small service fee, is deducted upon the next recharge, offering customers uninterrupted connectivity in urgent situations.
Algeria’s National Investment Fund has launched a new technology hub with Djezzy, IT-DEV, Inet, and Smart Test, aligning with the National Digital Transformation Strategy 2030. The hub will modernize institutions, support SMEs and startups, and position Algeria as a regional digital powerhouse with global competitiveness.
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, has been elected Chairman of the Global Satellite Operators Association, becoming the first Emirati to hold the role. With over 20 years of experience, he brings proven leadership in satellite communications, advancing global collaboration while reinforcing the UAE’s growing influence in the space sector.
Bahrain’s maritime e-portal for small vessel registration and licensing has surpassed 10,000 transactions since its February launch, with over half of all operations now processed digitally. The platform enhances efficiency, streamlines services with features like QR authentication, and aligns with Bahrain’s digital transformation and sustainability goals.
Paltel announced the disruption of fixed internet and landline services in Gaza and North Gaza following Israeli strikes that damaged key infrastructure routes. The outage comes amid warnings by human rights groups of a total collapse of telecom services due to fuel shortages and repeated targeting, isolating Gaza and obstructing humanitarian relief.
Batelco has become the first operator in Bahrain to introduce Eco-SIM cards made from 100% recycled plastic. The new cards, produced from recycled appliances, are fully recyclable and form part of a circular economy model. This initiative will reduce plastic waste, cut carbon emissions, and reinforce Beyon Group’s sustainability commitments.
Saudi Arabia is accelerating its AI transformation with $14.9 billion in new investments, global partnerships, and talent development programs. With initiatives like Humain and collaborations with Microsoft, NVIDIA, and AWS, the Kingdom is becoming a global hub for AI innovation under Vision 2030.
Saudi-based Oumla has raised $2.4 million in seed funding, led by Core Vision with backing from Avalanche and angel investors. The fintech startup provides digital asset custody, blockchain connectivity, and tokenisation solutions, with plans to expand partnerships across regulators, banks, and government entities in the Kingdom and region.
Google Pay has launched in Saudi Arabia through SAMA’s mada payment system, allowing users to manage mada and credit cards via Google Wallet. The move supports Vision 2030 goals of reducing cash use and reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a global fintech leader.
Saudi Arabia’s SAMA and Ant International will roll out Alipay+ in 2026, enabling cross-border QR payments via the mada system. The initiative supports Vision 2030 goals of boosting digital payments, empowering SMEs, and enhancing the Kingdom’s status as a global tourism and innovation hub.