Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
A Dutch government study found that the mobile phone ban in schools has improved student concentration, social interactions, and academic performance, with significant positive feedback from high schools. The ban, effective since early 2024, includes primary schools with limited impact at that level.
Algeria has improved its ICT Development Index ranking from 89th to 74th globally in 2025, surpassing averages for the world, the Arab region, Africa, and upper-middle-income countries. This progress underscores the country’s commitment to expanding universal and meaningful internet connectivity as part of its national digital vision.
Gamezop is investing $4 million to open its Middle East HQ in Bahrain, aiming to hire locally, expand its app portfolio, and increase revenue. The move strengthens ties between India and the Middle East and supports Bahrain’s growing gaming ecosystem, backed by government initiatives and digital infrastructure.
Algeria’s government convened to accelerate flagship projects including Gara Djebilet mining and railway, digital infrastructure expansion, university service improvements, and enhanced summer transport logistics, reflecting strategic goals for industrial sovereignty, digital transformation, and citizen well-being.
Pakistan’s Ministry of IT and Telecom confirms ongoing dialogue with Microsoft amid reports of the company exiting after 25 years. The ministry frames this as a strategic shift toward a partner-led cloud model rather than a market exit, while former Microsoft Pakistan manager highlights the exit’s significance and underlying economic challenges.
Oman’s fiber optic residential coverage has risen by 64%, significantly boosting high-speed internet access nationwide, as reported by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, supporting the country’s digital development ambitions.
Ooredoo Algeria has been licensed to launch and operate a 5G network after ranking second in a competitive tender by Algeria’s regulatory authority. The network promises to accelerate digital transformation and economic development, leveraging Ooredoo Group’s global 5G expertise to enhance connectivity across sectors nationwide.
Zain has launched its 5G Advanced network with nationwide coverage in Kuwait, positioning the country among the first globally to commercialize this technology. The network supports smart city and IoT applications, advancing Kuwait’s digital economy in line with government directives and CITRA’s regulatory approval.
MobiFone has launched Saymee, a Gen Z-focused digital MVNO brand powered by Amdocs’ cloud-native connectX platform on AWS. The service includes free GPT chat and loyalty programs, enabling fast, flexible launch of new offers and simplified multi-plan management to meet young subscribers’ evolving needs.
Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction is delayed due to PTCL’s incomplete submissions for its Telenor acquisition, stalling regulatory approval by the Competition Commission. Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirmed the independent regulatory process as the main bottleneck amid merger uncertainties.