Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Jordan’s National Council for Future Technology, chaired by Crown Prince Hussein, is positioning technology as a core engine of growth and quality of life. Business leaders say its first-year impact across education, healthcare, and public services signals a strategic shift toward innovation, private-sector leadership, and a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.
Jordan and Saudi Arabia have launched a new business network to institutionalize private-sector collaboration, accelerate deal-making, and expand trade and investment. Backed by chambers, diplomats, and business leaders, the platform introduces structured matchmaking, sector committees, and digital tools to convert opportunities into real projects.
Viridien and SLB will launch the region’s largest multi-client OBN seismic programme offshore Egypt in partnership with EGAS, starting in Q1 2026. The project aims to unlock deeper subsurface insight, attract global explorers, and reinforce Egypt’s role as a regional energy hub.
Egypt’s young innovators are using AI to solve real-world problems and reimagine history, from healthcare robots to hieroglyph-translating apps. Backed by rising investment and government support, AI is becoming central to education, entrepreneurship, and national development, positioning Egypt’s youth at the forefront of technological transformation.
IEGCO unveiled four machines manufactured locally for the first time at Grain Tech Egypt, introducing Egypt’s first domestic solutions for variable data printing on consumer goods. The move supports import substitution, boosts exports to five markets, and targets expansion across Africa.
Starlink is providing free satellite internet across Venezuela until 3 February after major connectivity outages in Caracas linked to power disruptions. The service aims to restore access in a country with a history of internet restrictions and infrastructure gaps, offering continuity during a period of widespread uncertainty.
Egypt’s Tax Authority has launched a mobile app for electronic real estate tax payments and faster clearance certificates, reinforcing its digital transformation drive. Officials outlined broader reforms, simplified regimes for small businesses, and new facilitation measures aimed at improving compliance, efficiency, and investor confidence.
Bahrain is reaffirming its leadership in advancing the Arab digital economy, positioning digital transformation as a driver of regional integration, trade growth, and sustainable development. Through parliamentary engagement, the Kingdom is championing infrastructure, innovation, and policy alignment to help Arab economies adapt to rapid global change.
UNESCO Dhaka has convened digital platforms, civil society and media groups to tackle misinformation and digital risks ahead of Bangladesh’s February 2026 elections. The multi-stakeholder workshop focused on platform governance, AI-driven threats and rights-based collaboration to strengthen electoral information integrity and protect public trust.
Telenor will sell its 30.3% stake in Thailand’s True Corporation for $3.9 billion, continuing its retreat from Asian markets after exiting Pakistan. The move lifts shares 8%, delivers a major accounting gain, and supports the group’s strategy to refocus on Nordic operations while reassessing remaining assets.