Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The launch of Satellite Direct-to-Device services positions Bahrain as the first GCC country to authorise mobile-to-satellite connectivity. The initiative allows standard mobile phones to connect beyond terrestrial networks, including maritime areas, enhancing safety, resilience, and nationwide connectivity while reinforcing Bahrain’s role as a regional leader in advanced telecommunications.
The expanded Zain Bahrain–Ericsson partnership brings advanced 5G edge capabilities to the Kingdom, enabling ultra-low latency, secure connectivity, and optimized performance. The deployment supports Industry 4.0 use cases such as AI-driven automation and real-time monitoring, strengthening Bahrain’s digital infrastructure and enterprise transformation efforts.
H2O Hospitality has partnered with the ADI Foundation to support the UAE’s digital currency initiative in the travel sector. The collaboration will integrate non-custodial wallets and QR-based stablecoin payments into tourism services, simplifying transactions for international visitors and supporting the UAE’s digital economy agenda.
Roamless raised $12m in a Series A led by Rasmal Ventures, with UAE investors backing its shift from travel eSIMs to a full-stack global mobile platform. By owning telecom infrastructure, the startup aims to add voice, SMS, and B2B embedded connectivity as eSIM adoption accelerates worldwide.
e& UAE will integrate AE Coin, the UAE’s first dirham-backed licensed stablecoin, into its payment systems, enabling customers to pay telecom bills and access digital services via regulated blockchain transactions. The partnership with Al Maryah Community Bank supports faster settlements, transparency, and secure mass-market digital payments.
Sri Lanka is advancing its digital economy strategy while responding to Cyclone Ditwah by using GovPay to streamline disaster relief donations and launching a global support portal. Despite major damage to telecom infrastructure, satellite connectivity and coordinated recovery efforts have highlighted the resilience and importance of digital systems during crises.
Saudi Arabia has achieved a 99% rating in security technology, ranking among the world’s top countries, according to the CEO of the Quality of Life Program. Advanced digital security systems, rapid emergency response, and smart public services have significantly improved safety, efficiency, and quality of life across the Kingdom.
Qatar’s MCIT has hosted digital awareness sessions with Microsoft to help SMEs adopt modern productivity and business management tools. The initiative supports operational efficiency, informed decision-making, and sustainable growth, aligning with the Digital Agenda 2030 to boost SME digital readiness.
Ooredoo Qatar powered connectivity for major international events hosting over 1.5 million attendees, handling more than 300TB of data and six million calls with 99.99% reliability. Advanced 5G, AI-driven optimisation, and dedicated operations centres ensured seamless, high-capacity performance during peak demand.
Pakistan and China have signed 24 technology MoUs covering digital infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and skills development. The agreements aim to build a digital corridor, train hundreds of thousands of Pakistani youths, expand ICT exports, and accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation through global partnerships.