Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Built on the robust Kobo Toolbox platform – an open-source ICT solution developed by the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative – RASME…
Ufone 4G is providing free minutes to users in flood-affected districts of KP to support rescue operations and help residents stay connected. The initiative, part of PTCL Group’s CSR efforts, builds on past disaster responses and reinforces the role of communication in climate resilience.
OpenAI’s “Stargate UAE” project aims to counter China’s “autocratic AI” by building a massive datacentre in Abu Dhabi and exporting “democratic AI” across 10 countries. While hailed as a geopolitical move, experts warn it risks strengthening authoritarian control in a state ranked among the worst globally for political freedoms.
The UAE has ranked first globally in telecom infrastructure with a perfect UN score and continues to lead the world in mobile internet speeds. In 2024, it completed 173.7 million digital transactions, reflecting a 91% satisfaction rate. By 2030, AI is expected to contribute US$100 billion to GDP.
With cyberattacks in the UAE now reaching nearly 200,000 a day, the Cybersecurity Council has issued an urgent warning against downloading unverified apps. Citizens are advised to use only official stores, review app permissions, and stay updated, as part of the UAE’s broader cybersecurity strategy to protect digital life.
Sri Lanka Telecom Group reported Rs. 4.3 billion in profit for 1H 2025, rebounding from last year’s loss. SLT PLC and Mobitel both posted strong turnarounds, supported by cost management, governance reforms, and steady revenue growth. The performance signals renewed strength for the telecom giant’s role in Sri Lanka’s digital economy.
Desert Technologies and AlKhorayef Industries have partnered to accelerate Saudi Arabia’s smart infrastructure development. The collaboration will focus on joint projects, technology integration, and local manufacturing, supporting Vision 2030 goals of diversification, sustainability, and job creation while positioning the Kingdom as a hub for innovation.
Saudi Arabia is embedding AI, AR, VR, and IoT into mega-tourism projects like Neom and the Red Sea Project to deliver immersive, personalized, and sustainable visitor experiences. With 150m annual visitors targeted by 2030, smart tourism is emerging as a key Vision 2030 enabler, despite talent and infrastructure challenges.
Saudi Airlines is in advanced talks with SpaceX to bring Starlink satellite internet to its 140-aircraft fleet. The move would give the carrier a competitive edge in the region, offering passengers fast, reliable in-flight connectivity and enhancing its position as a global leader in aviation services.
LINX has upgraded the center3 Internet Exchange Point in Riyadh, adding 400GE capabilities and expanding 100GE availability. The enhancements strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a digital hub, supporting Vision 2030 goals for AI, cloud, and smart cities, while attracting global tech investment through advanced interconnection infrastructure.