Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are deepening their partnership in AI, digital infrastructure, and talent development through the launch of GO AI Hub Pakistan. The initiative, led by GO Telecommunications Group and Pakistan’s IT ministry, will promote innovation, knowledge transfer, and cross-border digital collaboration between the two nations.
L&T Technology Services and Siemens have expanded their decade-long collaboration to deliver AI-enabled and IIoT-driven automation solutions across multiple industries. The partnership will integrate Siemens’ flagship platforms with LTTS’s AI expertise to drive smarter, more sustainable, and simulation-based industrial transformation globally.
Ooredoo Fintech is set to join PayPal World, linking its users across Qatar, Oman, and the Maldives to nearly two billion global consumers. The partnership expands digital wallet use cases, simplifies cross-border payments, and reinforces Ooredoo’s role as a regional leader in financial inclusion while leveraging PayPal’s trusted global network.
Sri Lanka’s AI startup ecosystem boasts world-class talent but struggles with scaling due to funding gaps, outdated policies, and limited digital adoption. Industry leaders urge urgent reforms, aggressive VC funding, and stronger collaboration to unlock the country’s potential to build a $15 billion digital economy.
Saudi Arabia’s stc has teamed up with Huawei KSA to launch Self-Optimized Networks (SON), embedding AI-driven automation into telecom infrastructure. The rollout enhances efficiency, adaptability, and service quality, supporting Vision 2030 goals and setting a benchmark for the Kingdom’s digital future.
Pakistan’s National AI Policy 2025 targets training one million people by 2030, integrating AI into education, launching AI-focused scholarships and internships, and funding startups. With inclusivity programs for women and marginalized groups, the policy aims to make Pakistan a regional hub for responsible, large-scale AI adoption.
Japan’s Digital Agency is partnering with OpenAI to deploy generative AI in government, including ChatGPT for officials and specialized tools for legal and legislative support. The move is expected to enhance efficiency while complementing Japan’s broader digital transformation strategy.
Morocco’s telecom regulator has mandated fiber optic infrastructure sharing under Decision DG/05/2025, requiring Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi to open networks to rivals. The reform supports Morocco’s Digital 2030 strategy, boosts competition, expands connectivity, and lays the foundation for 5G deployment.
The Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) launched its AI-REAL Toolkit at the G20 Digital Economy Ministers’ Meeting, providing governments with a framework to move from AI readiness to adoption. Covering five pillars and 39 KPIs, the toolkit supports responsible, inclusive, and sustainable AI growth across its 16 member states and beyond.
Jordan School District is pioneering AI in education through its partnership with SchoolAI, giving teachers advanced tools and students engaging AI-powered learning spaces. With over 1,000 activities and innovative moderated AI chats, the district is transforming classrooms into hubs of creativity, exploration, and higher-level thinking.