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 has launched Humain Chat, its first Arabic AI app powered by the ALLAM 34B model built locally by Saudi experts. Available on mobile and web, the culturally attuned platform serves 350 million Arabic speakers worldwide, marking a milestone in the Kingdom’s ambition to lead AI innovation.
Saudi Arabia and Syria are rapidly expanding economic ties after hosting the Saudi-Syrian Partnership and Investment Forum in Jeddah. With trade expected to hit SR2 billion in 2025 and investment agreements surging to SR24 billion, both nations are deepening cooperation in reconstruction, real estate, and key growth sectors.
OnMobile and Vodafone Qatar have launched Buzzmo, an AI-powered, telco-centric communication platform that enables real-time personalization and omnichannel engagement. Serving 800+ enterprises, Buzzmo enhances customer experience, accelerates campaign delivery, and strengthens Vodafone Qatar’s enterprise leadership in the region’s digital economy.
Pakistan’s Visor Dynamics has unveiled Elite AI, a homegrown defense-focused AI platform capable of analyzing satellite imagery, intelligence data, and mission planning scenarios in real time. The launch positions Pakistan alongside global leaders in defense AI and highlights the nation’s capacity for world-class technological innovation.
Zong and Zindigi have partnered to deliver G2P payments via branchless banking, enabling M-Wallets for Zong customers in underserved areas. The initiative ensures secure, timely aid distribution, boosts financial inclusion, and strengthens Pakistan’s digital banking ecosystem through public-private collaboration.
Pakistan has launched 10 million digital wallets under BISP, linking them to CNICs with biometric safeguards to ensure transparency and efficiency. Paired with free SIM cards and digital literacy training, the initiative aims to modernize social protection, empower women, and accelerate the country’s transition toward a cashless economy.
Pakistan will install three new submarine cables and double mobile internet spectrum to boost connectivity, expand 5G readiness, and reduce reliance on existing systems. With 200M mobile users and rising digital adoption, the upgrades aim to support innovation, inclusion, and resilience against costly internet disruptions.
Tele Digital Services, part of Ramesh Corp, has become a Google Workspace Sell Partner under Google Cloud’s Partner Advantage programme. Offering local payments, instant licences, and technical support, the company has already onboarded 50+ businesses in Nepal, helping them transition from cPanel-based systems to cloud-based productivity tools.
Kuwait has become one of the first countries worldwide to complete a nationwide 5G Advanced rollout, with Huawei and Knetco deploying the technology for Ooredoo, Zain, and stc. The upgrade strengthens Vision 2035 goals, supports smart city and industrial applications, and lays the foundation for Kuwait’s future 6G journey.
Cisco and CMU-Africa warn that while Africa could add $2.9 trillion to its economy through AI by 2030, the continent must address its severe skills gap. With 75% of its population under 35 and strong entrepreneurial drive, Africa is well-placed to lead global AI innovation if investments in education, infrastructure, and collaboration accelerate.