Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Lebanon has granted Starlink a license to provide satellite-based internet services nationwide after six months of negotiations. Initially available only to companies at $100 per month, the service aims to enhance connectivity in a country struggling with infrastructure and service reliability.
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed met OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to explore AI research and applications cooperation. The talks align with the UAE’s ambition to build an integrated AI ecosystem, supported by investments in mega data centers, Arabic AI models, and a U.S. partnership for a global AI campus.
Sri Lanka aims to grow its digital economy contribution to GDP from 3% to 15% within a decade, with fintech projected to unlock $15 billion in value. At the Fintech Summit 2025, Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya outlined a DPI-led strategy built on trust, innovation, inclusion, and regulation to drive growth.
SLT-Mobitel has staged a major financial turnaround and is driving Sri Lanka’s digital transformation through e-governance platforms, upcoming 5G rollout, SME-focused solutions, and nationwide connectivity programs. With strong ESG commitments, the company is positioning itself as a strategic national asset for an inclusive digital future.
Viper Networks and Apollo INT’L have launched a smart city pilot in Saudi Arabia with advanced smart poles integrating 5G, IoT, and smart lighting. The initiative supports Vision 2030, with plans for local manufacturing and expansion across MENA following earlier deployments in Sri Lanka.
China Unicom views Europe as a vital partner in AI and data research, citing trusted data exchange and security as priority areas. The company remains optimistic about global AI cooperation despite geopolitical challenges and underlines telecom’s role as a fundamental service shaping digital progress.
Yango has launched its SuperApp at ITCN Asia 2025, unifying ride-hailing, delivery, shopping, ads, and B2B services in one platform. The showcase highlighted Yango’s commitment to digital transformation in Pakistan, attracting policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators at the country’s biggest tech stage.
Oman has launched Tawteen, a digital platform transforming workforce development by linking employers with jobseekers, providing training opportunities, and using data-driven insights for workforce planning. The initiative supports Vision 2040 goals, focusing on future-ready skills, job creation, and national competitiveness.
Nepal’s 4G users have surpassed 25.7 million, driving mobile broadband penetration to 89%. Ntc and Ncell lead the market, adding 156,000 new subscribers in one month. With legacy 2G/3G networks set for shutdown, Nepal prepares for a 5G future while striving to improve 4G service quality.
Morocco has launched the Digital Hub for Sustainable Development in New York during UNGA80, in partnership with UNDP. The hub aims to drive digital transformation across Africa and the Arab world, reinforcing Morocco’s ambition to become a regional leader in digital innovation and inclusive growth.