Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Nigeria’s average 4G speeds reached 33Mbps in 2025, reflecting major investments in fibre, network expansion and regulatory reform. While challenges persist, rising broadband penetration and improved quality of experience signal meaningful progress in one of Africa’s largest telecom markets.
RAKBank has received in-principle approval from the UAE central bank to issue a dirham-backed stablecoin. Fully reserved and blockchain-based, the token strengthens the UAE’s regulated digital payments ecosystem, though adoption and interoperability remain key challenges.
Saudi Arabia ranks 44th globally in remote work readiness, driven by strong digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and Vision 2030 reforms. With the rising adoption of remote and hybrid work models, especially among women, the labor market is being reshaped, positioning the Kingdom as a regional leader in flexible employment.
Ncell has proposed an IPO and higher Nepalese ownership as part of efforts to secure licence renewal beyond 2029. The operator is seeking regulatory certainty to invest in 5G and fibre, urging equal treatment with Nepal Telecom and a mutually beneficial resolution with the government.
Nepal has released a draft Electronic Commerce Directive to regulate online shopping through mandatory registration, digital payments, data protection, and grievance mechanisms. The proposal strengthens consumer rights, introduces compliance oversight, and aims to formalize and modernize the country’s growing eCommerce ecosystem.
Orange Jordan and JoPACC have partnered to strengthen fintech innovation and digital skills in Jordan through training, applied projects, and incubator support. The MoU aims to empower Coding Academy graduates, accelerate real-world fintech solutions, and support sustainable growth of Jordan’s digital and financial ecosystem.
African startups raised $3.2 billion in 2025, rebounding strongly after two years of decline. Energy and fintech led funding growth as investors backed larger, later-stage companies with proven models, signalling renewed confidence in Africa’s maturing tech ecosystem.
Akash Digital TV has launched Akash Go, a new OTT platform offering live sports, films and web series, including BPL 2026 and LaLiga. Available to all users, the service features flexible plans, multi-device streaming and a companion app for DTH subscribers.
AAAB and Aleph have partnered to boost Bangladesh’s digital advertising ecosystem through training, certifications, leadership development, and ethical standards. The collaboration aims to professionalize industry practices, enhance skills and transparency, and connect local agencies with global platforms and opportunities.
Summit Group plans to enter Bangladesh’s data centre market by leveraging its gas-based power assets and nationwide fibre network. The group aims to deliver capacity within 18 months, despite sustainability concerns and political risks, as rising data demand and new data protection rules drive local infrastructure growth.