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’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.
Turkcell, Beko, and Ericsson finalized the EU-supported VERGE project, demonstrating Turkey’s first remote industrial design using 5G and XR technologies. The project highlights 5G’s role in enabling real-time collaboration, network slicing, and AI-powered network management, accelerating product development and digital transformation.
Alibaba Cloud is expanding its Southeast Asia infrastructure with a third Malaysian data centre and a second Philippine facility set for late 2025. Complemented by an AI Competency Centre in Singapore, this buildout supports rising regional demand amid a global $52.7 billion cloud network investment.
Huawei and Zain KSA have launched the Riyadh Antenna Platform, featuring a cylindrical design that cuts wind resistance and site costs, with advanced remote beam steering for enhanced network coverage. This innovation supports Saudi Arabia’s expanded spectrum allocations and addresses deployment challenges in urban and high-wind environments.
Morocco is strengthening its gaming industry with a developer hub, training programs, and a $26 million Rabat Gaming City. Hosting a major gaming expo, the country aims to empower youth, attract investment, and double gaming revenue by 2030, tackling high youth unemployment through tech-driven career opportunities.