Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Visa has launched the world’s first locally hosted Visa Acceptance Platform in Saudi Arabia, enabling faster, more secure digital payments. Supporting mada and digital wallets, the move aligns with SAMA regulations and Vision 2030, helping merchants boost efficiency, approval rates, and customer experience in the Kingdom’s cashless economy.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Justice and Digital Government Authority are deepening collaboration to accelerate judicial digital transformation. The partnership, highlighted by the Najiz platform’s success, aims to enhance transparency, streamline processes, and deliver innovative, accessible services aligned with Vision 2030 goals.
Zain KSA has secured SAR 5.5 billion ($1.47bn) in Islamic financing from five banks to refinance existing loans maturing in 2025 and fund future operations. The facility, with a five-year term and one-year grace period, matures in 2030 and supports the telco’s growth strategy.
Google Pay and Alipay have launched in Saudi Arabia, supporting Vision 2030’s cashless economy goals. Their entry expands digital payment options, boosts financial inclusion, and strengthens the fintech ecosystem while fueling e-commerce and retail growth across the Kingdom.
Vodafone Qatar and the Khwarizmi Artificial Intelligence Center (KAIC) have partnered to accelerate AI-driven innovation in telecom and enterprise services. The collaboration will deliver advanced digital solutions, enhance customer experiences, and support Qatar’s digital transformation and ambition to become a regional innovation hub.
Pakistan has issued a draft license framework for satellite internet services, reducing barriers for global providers like Starlink. The single-license model cuts costs, mandates local data compliance, and ensures rapid rollout. The move is expected to boost connectivity in underserved regions and advance Pakistan’s digital sovereignty.
Pakistan’s IT Ministry (Ignite) and HUM Network have launched the Center of Excellence in Gaming & Animation (CEGA), the country’s biggest initiative in the sector. The project will train youth, foster startups, and expand exports, while Pakistan and Turkey also agreed to strengthen ICT collaboration.
Al Mudhaibi Industrial City in Oman secured four new investment projects in H1 2025, showcasing its growing appeal as a manufacturing hub. The development aligns with Vision 2040 goals to diversify the economy, attract private-sector investors, and generate employment through industrial expansion.
Ooredoo and Tamimah Telecom have launched ERSAL, a unified platform consolidating messaging, email, voice, video, and social media into one secure system. Designed to boost customer engagement and efficiency, ERSAL supports automation, AI, and real-time insights, aligning with Oman’s digital transformation agenda.
Vodafone Oman and Software Group have partnered to deliver advanced digital financial services in support of Oman’s Vision 2040. The collaboration will enable mobile wallets, digital lending, and integrated platforms to expand financial inclusion, empower underserved communities, and accelerate the Sultanate’s transition to a sustainable digital economy.