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 is moving forward with its 5G spectrum auction, offering 194 MHz in the 2600 MHz band despite legal disputes over part of the spectrum. Officials say the absence of a stay order allows the process to continue, aiming to attract investment and strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure.
Yango Ride has launched a new in-app safety flow in Nepal, introducing personalised safety checklists, a dedicated safety centre, and enhanced ride monitoring. The update improves transparency around driver verification, speed control, and driving behaviour, reinforcing passenger safety and confidence throughout each journey.
Morocco is committing MAD 1.3 billion under its Digital 2030 strategy to support startups through venture building, venture capital, and Technopark expansion. The initiative aims to create 3,000 startups by 2030, strengthen private investment, promote inclusive digital growth, and position the country as a regional innovation hub.
Morocco’s E-Commerce Market Approaches $1.7 Billion in 2025 as Fashion, Electronics, and Beauty Drive Growth
Rabat: Morocco’s e-commerce market is projected to reach nearly $1.7 billion in revenue in 2025, reflecting sustained growth fueled by digital adoption and rising consumer confidence in online shopping, according to an analysis by Concli.com based on Statista’s Digital Market Outlook data. Online spending in Morocco has more than doubled since 2017, driven primarily by fashion, consumer electronics, and beauty and personal care products.
Fashion remains the country’s largest online segment, with revenues expected to reach $556 million by the end of 2025. Apparel accounts for the majority of spending, followed by accessories and footwear. Growth is supported by a young, digitally engaged population, the popularity of fast-fashion platforms and social-commerce channels, and the growing availability of international brands through seasonal promotions.
Consumer electronics represent one of the fastest-growing categories, with revenues forecast to exceed $370 million in 2025. Smartphones account for nearly two-thirds of the segment, reflecting Morocco’s mobile-first consumer behaviour. Rising demand for mid-range devices, faster replacement cycles, increased availability of refurbished products, and broader use of digital payments continue to accelerate online electronics sales.
Beauty and personal care are also emerging as a dynamic growth area, with revenues projected to surpass $111 million this year. While personal care products remain the foundation of the segment, cosmetics and skincare are expanding most rapidly, driven by social media influence, rising interest in skincare routines, improved trust in certified sellers, and wider online availability of both local and international brands.
The continued expansion of e-commerce highlights Morocco’s maturing digital economy, supported by improved logistics, increased digital literacy, and wider adoption of electronic payments and mobile wallets. However, challenges remain, including heavy reliance on cash-on-delivery, return policy clarity, and the need to ensure product authenticity. Platforms that emphasise transparency and consumer trust are expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping safer online shopping experiences.
Arab Open University Kuwait is leading the digital transformation of higher education through blended learning, AI-driven teaching methods, and UK-validated programmes. With early investments in technology and a strong focus on labour market needs, the university is preparing students for the digital economy while supporting Kuwait Vision 2035.
Umniah by Beyon has signed a five-year strategic partnership agreement with Ericsson to modernise and expand its Radio Access Network across 3G, 4G, and 5G in Jordan. Under the agreement, Ericsson will act as the exclusive technology provider for Umniah’s network upgrades, supporting national digital transformation goals and preparing Jordan’s connectivity infrastructure for long-term growth.
Thales has deepened its partnership with Arab International Optronics to support Egypt’s technology sovereignty through joint training, defence innovation, surveillance systems, and supply chain integration. The expanded collaboration aims to strengthen local industrial capabilities, develop national talent, and position Egypt as a regional hub for advanced, locally produced technologies.
bKash is strengthening women’s financial independence in Bangladesh by expanding access to mobile money services, including remittances, savings, loans, and payroll. With over 82 million users, the platform is helping women—especially in rural areas—enter the formal economy, build resilience, and pursue entrepreneurship through inclusive digital finance.
Bangladesh has taken a major step toward its first private submarine cable network after the BPCS Consortium signed an SLTE supply agreement with Nokia. The project aims to boost international bandwidth capacity, reduce reliance on terrestrial links via India, enhance cybersecurity, and support long-term internet affordability and digital growth.
Bahrain’s iGA and Royal Academy of Police honoured university students who won the 2025 AI GameDay Challenge, highlighting national efforts to build AI and cloud computing skills. Supported by UNDP, AWS, and stc Bahrain, the initiative showcased youth innovation and practical applications aligned with the Kingdom’s digital transformation goals.