Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia’s telecom sector generated nearly $21.5 billion in revenues in the first nine months of 2025, with profits rising 5.72% as digital adoption surged. stc accounted for 80% of total sector profits, while Mobily and Zain KSA delivered strong growth. Demand for 5G, cloud services, IoT and AI continues to drive expansion, supported by Vision 2030’s digital transformation agenda.
Saudi Arabia’s GO has rebranded to Etihad GO Telecom as part of a strategic shift aimed at strengthening its presence in the telecom and technology sectors. Approved by shareholders in October, the new identity aligns with the company’s plans to boost technical capabilities, expand digital services, and support Saudi Vision 2030’s national digital transformation agenda. The company’s Tadawul ticker has now been updated to GO TELECOM.
Multinet Pakistan has signed an MoU with the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry to offer LCCI members a 30% discount on a broad range of cloud, cybersecurity, IoT, and data analytics services, backed by nationwide fiber connectivity. The one-year agreement also includes joint workshops and awareness sessions, aligning with Pakistan’s Digital Pakistan agenda and supporting over 46,000 member businesses in accelerating their digital transformation.
ABB has opened a US$2 million AI and digital solutions training center in Dubai to upskill 2,000 engineers annually and support the Middle East’s energy transition. The 2,500 m² facility will train professionals in digital asset management, predictive maintenance and modern electrification technologies while helping industries upgrade legacy systems for greater efficiency, resilience and sustainability.
Vianet has launched its Superhit Internet Pack in Nepal, offering priority same-day customer support for users on 100 Mbps, 200 Mbps, and 300 Mbps plans. Priced at Rs 11,200 annually for the 200 Mbps package, the offer includes a discounted Mesh Router and aims to enhance service reliability and customer satisfaction for both new and existing subscribers.
NVIDIA is targeting Morocco as a priority market after launching its first African AI factory in South Africa through partner Cassava Technologies. A delegation visited Rabat to assess opportunities as the company plans further expansion across Egypt, Kenya, Morocco and Nigeria. Analysts cite Morocco’s proximity to Europe, strong digital ambitions and supportive policy environment, though experts note that advanced skills, cloud capacity and incentive frameworks are crucial to securing major AI investments.
Morocco’s digital transition minister Amal El Fellah Seghrouchni warned at the MeDays Southern Forum that Africa risks deep digital dependence unless it builds sovereign capabilities in AI, data centers, chips and cybersecurity. Highlighting Morocco’s investments in sovereign cloud infrastructure, data embassies, and startup support, she urged African nations to strengthen local tech ecosystems to avoid relying on foreign algorithms and infrastructure. The discussion emphasized balancing digital progress with sovereignty, security and long-term resilience.
Morocco’s cybersecurity market has reached $1.2 billion, supported by rising cyber threats, national security reforms and widespread digitalization. Demand is shifting toward MDR and SOC services as organizations seek round-the-clock monitoring and faster response capabilities. While government agencies and financial institutions lead spending, the sector faces a talent shortage and high deployment costs. Continued growth is expected as cybersecurity becomes a core business priority.
Ooredoo Kuwait has launched exclusive roaming offers for fans traveling to Qatar for Arab Cup 2025, including a free one-day 15GB data pass and a 50% discounted roaming pack with 500GB data and 500 minutes. A new permanent 2TB roaming package has also been introduced. The company aims to deliver high-value, seamless connectivity for supporters during the tournament and beyond.
Jordan-based VC firm Propeller has launched a $50 million Fund III dedicated to horizontal AI infrastructure and AI-native applications. Operating across MENA and the US, the fund aims to connect regional talent with Silicon Valley while supporting US startups entering Middle Eastern markets. Propeller has already made five US-focused investments this year and has backed 30+ startups across its earlier funds, solidifying its position as a cross-border AI investor.