Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Experts at SEF 2026 said the UAE’s digital infrastructure and regulations enable startups to scale globally. They stressed that AI success depends mostly on business culture, not tools, and praised the UAE’s government–private sector partnership, access to talent, and strong digital ecosystem.
TDRA confirmed that importing telecom devices into the UAE requires a customs clearance permit to ensure legal and safe entry. The regulator urged businesses and individuals to review guidelines on its website or call 80012, as part of efforts to prevent unauthorized and potentially risky equipment from entering the country.
Sri Lanka and Pakistan agreed to form a Joint Working Group on IT and Digital Economy to boost cooperation in digital infrastructure, e-governance, and skills development. The move expands bilateral ties beyond trade into emerging technologies while supporting SMEs, pharmaceuticals, and broader economic collaboration.
Saudi leaders and Oracle executives highlighted the Kingdom’s AI ambitions at Oracle AI World Tour Riyadh, noting AI’s role in digital transformation under Vision 2030. With over $40 billion planned investment and strong data sovereignty focus, Saudi Arabia aims to become a global AI hub.
Pakistan will hold its 5G spectrum auction on March 10 to ease network congestion caused by limited spectrum. With 130 million broadband users operating on 274 MHz, the move aims to improve Internet speeds and support the country’s expanding digital economy and rising IT exports.
Qatar announced a $2 billion expansion of its Fund of Funds and new incentives for startups at Web Summit 2026, including 10-year residencies and compute credits. The move strengthens Qatar’s position as a global innovation hub attracting founders, investors, and technology leaders worldwide.
SkipCash raised $4 million in Series A funding to expand its Tap-to-Phone POS solution, enhance infrastructure, and enter GCC markets. Serving 6,000 clients, the Qatari fintech processed over QR1 billion in 2025 and aims to simplify digital payments for merchants and consumers.
Ooredoo Fintech partnered with Western Union to integrate global money transfer services into the Ooredoo Money app in Qatar. The move enhances cross-border remittance options, supports digital financial inclusion, and will expand to other regional markets, offering users more flexibility and choice in international payments.
Pakistan will host Indus AI Week 2026 from February 9–15 to showcase national AI potential under the Digital Pakistan vision. The event will unite policymakers, tech firms, academia, and startups to promote real-world AI adoption across governance, industry, and innovation while attracting global investment.
Oman launched a four-month Leadership Forum under the Artaqaa programme to prepare senior officials for digital transformation aligned with Vision 2040. Organised by MTCIT and partners, the initiative focuses on emerging technologies, coordination, and policy readiness to strengthen institutional capability across government.