Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
stc has signed a 10-year, SAR 7 billion satellite partnership with AST SpaceMobile to deliver direct-to-device connectivity across Saudi Arabia and key MENA markets. The agreement enhances stc’s digital inclusion strategy and expands coverage beyond terrestrial networks.
Fawry has launched Apple Pay in partnership with Banque Misr, introducing secure contactless payments across Egypt. The move strengthens Egypt’s digital payments ecosystem and allows myfawry cardholders to make quick, private, and globally recognized transactions using Apple devices.
Egypt has signed the UN Cybercrime Convention, joining global efforts to combat cyber threats and strengthen digital cooperation. The move reinforces Egypt’s cybersecurity leadership, with plans to establish an Egypt–Africa cybercrime prevention center alongside the UNODC.
BARQ Systems has become one of Egypt’s first companies accredited under the MCIT cybersecurity framework, covering eight cybersecurity domains. The milestone strengthens Egypt’s digital infrastructure and supports Vision 2030’s goal of building a secure, resilient national digital ecosystem.
Grameenphone, Teletalk, and EDOTCO have entered a landmark tower-sharing deal to expand mobile coverage, improve efficiency, and accelerate digital inclusion across Bangladesh. The partnership reduces infrastructure duplication and supports the nation’s long-term telecom and digital transformation goals.
Bangladesh will launch the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) on December 16 to curb mobile fraud, block illegal handsets, and boost telecom transparency. All active devices will be automatically registered, while imported phones must undergo online registration before use.
The Information & eGovernment Authority (IGA), in partnership with Beyon Connect, has launched the Bulk Know Your Customer (KYC) Service, marking a major step forward in Bahrain’s digital financial transformation and data verification ecosystem.
du has joined Bridge Alliance to expand IoT collaboration between the UAE and Asia-Pacific. The partnership enables seamless global IoT connectivity, co-innovation, and knowledge exchange across 35 member operators, enhancing du’s leadership in the UAE’s digital and 5G ecosystem.
Ooredoo Group posted a 6% profit rise to QR3.1 billion and upgraded its dividend policy following strong 9-month performance driven by regional growth, digital investments, and data centre expansion. Strategic ventures in towers, fintech, and AI-ready infrastructure continue to strengthen its MENA leadership.
Algeria and Huawei have agreed to strengthen cooperation on technology deployment, digital infrastructure, and talent development. The initiative aims to transform Algeria from a technology consumer into a producer by fostering local expertise and partnerships aligned with the government’s digital investment strategy.