Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Walton received the Digital Bangladesh Award 2018 for its contribution to the country’s IT sector and support in building Digital Bangladesh. The award was presented at Digital Bangladesh Day-2018, where nine other individuals and organisations were also honoured for advancing the nation’s digital transformation.
Bangladesh risks falling short of its trillion-dollar digital economy target due to one of the world’s highest spectrum and tax burdens, a GSMA report warns. High costs are slowing 5G rollout and internet speeds, while reforms in spectrum pricing and taxation could unlock up to $45 billion in economic growth by 2035.
ADN Telecom has signed MoUs with South Korea’s PBS and CND Motors to collaborate on electric three-wheeler assembly, AI-based traffic management, and solar streetlight projects in Bangladesh. The partnerships will combine Korean technology with local execution to foster sustainability, job creation, and technological advancement.
Bangladesh has approved its Telecom Networking Licence Policy 2025, aiming to streamline licensing, enhance competition, and improve nationwide service quality. While Grameenphone and Banglalink welcomed reforms, Robi Axiata voiced disappointment over unaddressed industry inputs. Analysts say the policy’s success hinges on clear implementation guidelines and meaningful stakeholder engagement.
NanoPalm, a Saudi biotech startup specializing in AI-powered lipid nanoparticle platforms for gene therapy, has won KPMG’s Global Tech Innovator competition in Saudi Arabia. The company will represent the Kingdom at the global finals in Portugal this November, competing against winners from more than 20 countries.
Tamkeen, Bahrain’s Labor Fund, is dedicated to strengthening the private sector as the driver of national growth. Through programs in entrepreneurship, workforce skills, and economic participation, it supports diversification, competitiveness, and innovation, ensuring sustainable opportunities for businesses and individuals alike.
Bahrain ranked fifth globally for mobile internet speed in 2025, achieving an average download speed of 233.22 Mbps, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index. The result underscores the Kingdom’s strong digital infrastructure investments and its position as a regional leader in connectivity and technological innovation.
Kalaam Carrier Solutions (KCS) and Riedel Networks have renewed their partnership for three more years to deliver resilient connectivity for motorsport, enterprises, and broadcasters across MENA. The alliance, anchored by Kalaam’s Bahrain-based POP and KNOT cable system, will expand infrastructure, interconnections, and services to meet growing digital demands.
Saudi Arabia’s telecom sector is evolving from price and infrastructure competition to a customer experience-driven model. A New Metrics survey reveals STC’s strong market lead, but also highlights service quality, fair pricing, and trust as the key loyalty drivers. Digital adoption is strong, yet branches remain vital, underscoring the need for seamless hybrid experiences.
Kalaam Telecom Group’s KCS and Riedel Networks have extended their partnership for three years to strengthen connectivity for motorsport events and enterprises across MENA. Anchored by a Bahrain hub and Kalaam’s KNOT cable system, the collaboration will expand infrastructure, add interconnection points, and introduce new services for regional and global customers.