Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Dialog Axiata has upgraded its agriculture advisory platform Govi Mithuru with AI-powered features, including a trilingual chat and voice bot, image-based pest diagnosis, and a voice assistant via 616. The service expands access to smart farming tools, empowering both farmers and gardeners across Sri Lanka.
ByteBridge has partnered with Naizak to form a Saudi-based data center joint venture focused on hyperscale and AI-driven growth. The move supports Vision 2030 by attracting investment and boosting digital infrastructure. ByteBridge also signed an MoU with South Korea’s FuriosaAI for AI-focused collaboration.
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, together with Qatar Tourism, hosted a workshop under the SMEs Go Digital Program to promote AI-driven innovation in the tourism sector. The initiative provides SMEs with digital tools, training, and support to improve customer experience, streamline operations, and strengthen Qatar’s global tourism competitiveness.
Qatar National Bank has adopted JPMorgan’s Kinexys blockchain platform for U.S. dollar corporate payments, enabling 24/7 settlement and cutting transfer times from days to minutes. The move strengthens regional adoption of on-chain banking infrastructure and supports programmable, transparent treasury operations.
Air Link Communication Limited will build a major production facility at Sundar Green SEZ, Lahore, spanning 1.4 million sq. ft. and powered by solar energy. Expected to be operational by late 2025, the plant will support exports of electronics while fiscal incentives and retail expansion strengthen the company’s growth outlook.
The CCP will conditionally approve PTCL’s USD 400 million acquisition of Telenor Pakistan after an 18-month review, imposing safeguards on pricing, infrastructure sharing, and competition. The decision balances market dominance concerns with potential efficiencies, setting a precedent for rigorous telecom merger oversight.
Oman Investment Authority has invested in UK-based Salience Labs to advance AI-driven optical chip technology. The move strengthens Oman’s AI portfolio, builds global partnerships, and supports the nation’s strategy to become a regional hub for innovation, digital infrastructure, and economic diversification.
Vinsys has partnered with SAP to accelerate enterprise transformation across the GCC. The collaboration will provide SAP certification pathways, localized enablement, and training in AI, ERP, and digital transformation, equipping regional enterprises with the skills and tools to modernize operations and scale innovation.
Oman hosted the Digital Content Conference with AI in Muscat, showcasing its Vision 2040-driven push for innovation. The event highlighted AI’s role in creative industries, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation, while launching competitions to encourage young creators and influencers in AI content.
Morocco has partnered with Z.systems to digitize 50,000 retail stores, equipping shopkeepers with e-wallets, loyalty programs, and direct brand access. Alongside WOLIZ’s deal to expand digital payments, the initiative strengthens financial inclusion and prepares Morocco’s retail sector for the 2030 World Cup.