Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Cisco is supporting Saudi Arabia’s AI and cloud transformation through local data centers, AI-ready infrastructure, advanced cybersecurity platforms, and large-scale skills development. By combining secure-by-design architectures with workforce upskilling and strategic partnerships, Cisco aims to help the Kingdom scale AI adoption while managing rising cyber risks.
Pakistan’s telecom regulator has revised IoT and SRD regulations to support nationwide IoT growth through licensed and shared spectrum use. The framework introduces a new LPWAN licence, enables licence-exempt devices under strict conditions, enforces data localisation, and supports R&D trials, aiming to drive smart cities and industrial automation.
Pakistan is launching its first National IT Industry Census to build a verified database of the country’s IT and IT-enabled services sector. Led by PSEB, the initiative will support data-driven policymaking, improve export and skills planning, and help identify growth opportunities across regions and technology specializations.
EV Group is a new digital platform integrating Oman’s electric vehicle ecosystem through charging station discovery, trip planning, and an EV marketplace. Developed by Muscat AI Solutions, the app addresses fragmented services and supports local businesses, providing EV owners with a centralised, user-focused solution for charging and mobility needs.
Vodafone Oman and Sultan Qaboos University concluded a three-day hackathon focused on practical digital transformation solutions across government, healthcare, smart cities, and cybersecurity. The initiative produced deployable concepts and reinforced a broader partnership supporting AI research, talent development, and applied innovation in Oman.
The UAE marked 2025 with major advances in artificial intelligence, achieving near-universal AI adoption across government and launching global-scale infrastructure projects with the US and Europe. Record investments, sovereign AI models, and large data centres positioned the country as a leading global hub for AI, digital infrastructure, and cybersecurity.
Nepal Telecom has launched 4G services in Simbokpa, Sankhuwasabha, bringing high-speed data and HD voice connectivity to a remote mountainous area. The deployment supports local development and tourism, aligns with NTC’s nationwide coverage goals, and advances Nepal’s broader digital inclusion efforts.
As Morocco hosts AFCON 2025, cybersecurity experts are warning of increased online scams, phishing attacks, and fake ticketing platforms targeting fans and institutions. Authorities have heightened vigilance, urging users to avoid suspicious links and protect financial data as cybercriminals exploit the surge in digital activity around the tournament.
Orange will deploy connectivity, digital platforms, and AI-powered tools to support AFCON Morocco 2025, enhancing fan engagement through real-time content, multilingual assistance, and connected fan zones across Africa. The initiative highlights the growing role of telecom infrastructure in transforming sports consumption on the continent.
PayTabs Kuwait and BEDE, powered by Zain, have partnered to simplify digital commerce for SMEs through BEDE Shop, a new social commerce platform. The initiative enables fast online storefront creation, social media payments, and QR-based transactions, supporting financial inclusion and SME growth across Kuwait.