Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Ooredoo has renewed its role as Exclusive Telecom Sponsor for the Qatar Boat Show 2025, set for November at Old Doha Port. The company will provide high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the venue, ensuring a seamless experience for visitors while supporting Qatar’s vision as a maritime, innovation, and tourism hub.
Pakistan’s telecom industry and GSMA have urged the government to adopt an investment-friendly approach to the upcoming 5G auction. Proposals include lower spectrum prices, rupee-based payments, duty-free imports, and flexible terms to spur digital transformation, reduce network congestion, and expand inclusion across the country.
The Royal Oman Police has updated its mobile app with new digital services including virtual inmate visitation, digital family and document access, driving licence applications, and anti-trafficking reporting. The move enhances convenience for citizens while reinforcing Oman’s digital transformation goals and Vision 2040.
AFR-IX Telecom has adopted VC4’s Service2Create to centralize and automate management of its Pan-African telecom backbone. The partnership enhances efficiency, transparency, and scalability, while supporting AFR-IX’s expansion projects like the Medusa Submarine Cable and Barcelona CLS. The move strengthens Africa’s position in global connectivity and digital transformation.
The GCC ministerial committee for cybersecurity held a meeting in Kuwait to advance regional cooperation on digital security. Member states reviewed joint efforts against cyber threats, discussed critical infrastructure protection, and planned future strategies to build expertise and safeguard the Gulf’s shared digital interests.
Kuwait has launched 5G Advanced technology with Knetco as the lead implementor for Huawei, achieving a nationwide rollout on a compressed schedule. Offering speeds up to ten times faster than 5G, the technology will drive smart cities, AI-powered industries, and sustainable digital transformation under Kuwait Vision 2035.
Orange Jordan, ISSF, and PSUT celebrated the graduation of 14 startups from the 2nd and 3rd cohorts of the Orange AI Incubator, Jordan’s first incubator dedicated to AI projects. Backed by HRH Princess Sumaya, the program equips entrepreneurs with skills, networks, and funding opportunities to drive AI-powered growth and digital transformation.
The Artificial Intelligence & Advanced Technologies Zone, launched through a strategic partnership between Oman’s Afouq Developments, Egypt’s Prime Group, and the Omani MTCIT, marks a milestone for Oman’s digital economy. Announced at COMEX 2025, it aims to attract global tech start-ups, foster AI innovation, and align with Oman Vision 2040.
Intella, a Saudi-based AI startup specialising in Arabic dialect speech-to-text, raised $12.5M in Series A funding led by Prosus. With 95.73% transcription accuracy, it outperforms global tech giants. The capital will drive R&D, expand Ziila and IntellaCX, and support growth in Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
EGYPTAIR has partnered with Huawei to modernise corporate travel and embed AI-driven ICT solutions across its operations. The agreement designates EGYPTAIR as Huawei’s preferred airline while introducing Smartcom-powered infrastructure upgrades, streamlined services, and enhanced in-flight experiences, positioning Egypt as a regional hub for business and digital aviation.