Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Mastercard and Zand are partnering to provide faster, more secure, and transparent cross-border payments in the UAE, offering real-time tracking and reduced friction for retail and corporate clients, and capitalizing on the country’s growing role as a global financial hub.
Huawei has awarded scholarships to Sri Lankan students from six universities to study advanced technologies. Officials say the program offers global-level training, cultural exchange, and a pathway for youth to contribute to Sri Lanka’s innovation and development.
Sri Lanka is launching a Rs 100 million National AI Fund to fuel innovation and target US$ 1.8B in AI-driven economic value by 2030. The initiative includes an AI Expo, nationwide mini expos, and a forthcoming national AI policy to promote responsible, inclusive adoption.
Starlink is close to a deal with Saudia Airlines to provide in-flight Wi-Fi across 140 aircraft, expanding its Gulf presence and competing with Neo Space Group, Viasat, and Inmarsat. The move follows talks with Emirates and Gulf Air, and a Qatar Airways rollout.
Pakistan has waived ROW charges for IT and fiber installations in Islamabad, aiming to cut costs for providers and speed up broadband rollout. Officials say the move supports affordable Internet expansion, though shutdowns and platform censorship continue to challenge digital access.
Nepal Telecom is close to awarding Huawei its billing system contract, despite prior warnings over monopoly risks, data security, and conflicts of interest. Critics say revised tender terms favor Huawei’s older hardware, potentially giving it near-total control of the operator’s core infrastructure.
Morocco’s ADD and DWTC are expanding their GITEX Africa partnership to boost Africa’s digital leadership. The event has become a key hub for startups and investors, supporting Morocco’s Digital 2030 goals and 5G rollout ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The University of Rabat and Cisco have launched a local Incubation Centre to advance AI and cybersecurity. The partnership includes the Cisco Networking Academy, offering ICT and advanced tech training as part of Cisco’s global Country Digital Acceleration program to support Morocco’s digital transformation.
Jordan has launched its 2026–2028 digital transformation strategy to align with national modernization goals, focusing on infrastructure, digital services, inclusion, and innovation. The plan sets five strategic pillars and a participatory governance model to build a secure, sustainable, and technology-driven economy.
Egyptian developer Ahmed El-Kholy’s Manetho app uses AI to instantly translate hieroglyphics and includes AR experiences that animate artifacts. Winner of Huawei’s regional developer competition, the app aims to expand into VR, offering immersive ways to explore Egypt’s ancient history.