Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Coca-Cola Foundation has partnered with Saudi women-led Lesser App to launch large-scale PET plastic collection in Riyadh and Jeddah under the new PACT initiative. With $1M in seed funding, the program promotes recycling innovation, supports waste workers, and aligns with Vision 2030’s sustainability goals.
Saudi Arabia has approved a new law granting foreigners real estate ownership rights through a digital ID system set to roll out in January 2026, boosting transparency and foreign investment. At the same time, AfricAI, a multinational joint venture, has been launched to drive AI adoption in Africa, focusing on localized, enterprise-grade solutions.
Salam will serve as Gold Sponsor of the GSR25 Side Event Exhibition in Riyadh, showcasing innovative ICT solutions. The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s digital leadership, bringing together global regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance digital transformation, innovation, and sustainable technology development.
ZTE and MTN have launched the world’s first 5-band RRU in South Africa, reducing RF modules by 50% and improving energy efficiency by 45.8%. The breakthrough supports MTN’s 97% LTE coverage, boosts sustainability, and sets a new benchmark for Africa’s telecom evolution and digital transformation.
Qatar, represented by the CRA, participated in the Arab Working Group meeting in Riyadh to prepare for ITU’s Plenipotentiary Conference 2026. Qatar secured two vice-chair roles and will host PP-26 in Doha, reaffirming its leadership in shaping global ICT policies and strengthening regional cooperation.
Ooredoo and Qatar Airways have signed a new MoU to build a national AI hub and boost Cloud and Cybersecurity capabilities in Qatar. The partnership will leverage Ooredoo’s infrastructure and Qatar Airways’ expertise to accelerate digital transformation, nurture local talent, and reinforce Qatar’s position as a regional tech leader.
Oman Post has partnered with Denmark’s e-Box to launch the National Digital Postbox, a secure platform for government, business, and individual communication. Operating 24/7, the system will streamline official document exchange, enhance data protection, and accelerate Oman’s Vision 2040 digital transformation goals.
Oman’s Ministry of Education has launched a wide-ranging plan to boost school safety, digital learning, and infrastructure. Key measures include 400 female bus supervisors, 800 new buses, 20 new schools by 2026/27, 5,000 interactive screens, and nationwide e-learning—marking a major leap in creating a safe, smart, and inclusive education system.
Oman is reshaping its tourism sector under Vision 2040 with a focus on sustainability, eco-resorts, cultural experiences, and digital transformation. Strategic investments by Ominvest, enhanced infrastructure, and regional partnerships are positioning the Sultanate as a premier Middle Eastern hub for responsible and diverse tourism experiences.
InnoTech, with bp Oman, has launched the fourth cycle of its FabTech Mobile Lab, introducing VR, IoT, and AI to enhance student learning. The program reached 600+ students in Muscat and Ad’Dakhiliyah, expanding lab capacity and aligning with Oman Vision 2040 goals of fostering education and innovation.