Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Orange Egypt and Qatar’s Qilaa International Group have formed an exclusive partnership to create Egypt’s first fully integrated smart tourism ecosystem. Centered on the WTOUR app, the initiative combines digital content, navigation, booking services, and offers into one platform, supporting Vision 2030 and enhancing Egypt’s global tourism competitiveness.
Egypt is rapidly expanding its AI ecosystem, with the sector projected to contribute 7.7% of GDP by 2030. Backed by major investments, rising cybersecurity capacity, and sustainability initiatives, the country is building a digitally skilled workforce and modern infrastructure. Experts stress urgent action to deepen AI literacy and secure inclusive, long-term growth.
Orange Egypt, in partnership with Shaghalni, has launched the country’s first AI-powered job interview system, allowing youth to complete smart virtual interviews for free through Orange branches. The initiative provides rapid skills assessment, job matching and access to leading employers, aiming to modernize recruitment and expand employment opportunities across Egypt.
Telecom Egypt has postponed the sale of its data centre assets to Helios Investment Partners to Q1 2026, finalising legal steps for the $230–260 million deal. Proceeds will support debt reduction as the company targets a net-cash position. The announcement follows TE’s completion of core infrastructure for the major 2Africa subsea cable project.Telecom Egypt has postponed the sale of its data centre assets to Helios Investment Partners to Q1 2026, finalising legal steps for the $230–260 million deal. Proceeds will support debt reduction as the company targets a net-cash position. The announcement follows TE’s completion of core infrastructure for the major 2Africa subsea cable project.
TechConnect 2025 brought together more than 300 government, telecom and technology leaders, highlighting Bangladesh’s renewed push toward an inclusive digital economy. Officials emphasized updated transformation strategies, stronger public-private partnerships and expanded digital services. Discussions focused on infrastructure, innovation, and reducing the digital divide, reinforcing Huawei’s continued collaboration with the ICT Division.
Bangladesh is drafting a national AI policy to guide the use of artificial intelligence in government offices, aiming to strengthen digital governance and inter-agency integration. At the TechConnect Summit 2025, officials and industry leaders highlighted priorities in AI, cloud, 5G, and cybersecurity, reaffirming long-term collaboration between the ICT Division and Huawei.
Middle Eastern airlines are rapidly expanding high-speed inflight internet, with Emirates, Saudia, Flydubai, Qatar Airways, and Flynas introducing free or enhanced Wi-Fi across their fleets. Using Starlink, SkyFive, and satellite networks, carriers now offer streaming-level connectivity, positioning fast onboard internet as a new standard for regional and long-haul travel.
Senegal’s FAT Dakar 2025 forum highlighted the strategic importance of digital terrestrial television in strengthening Africa’s digital sovereignty and audiovisual competitiveness. Discussions covered infrastructure, cybersecurity, and local content, while bilateral talks with Algeria and Burkina Faso advanced cooperation on regulation and sovereign broadcasting systems. The event aligns with Senegal’s New Technological Deal.
Egypt and Algeria signed multiple MoUs spanning housing, agriculture, education, culture, finance, youth programs, energy transition and public administration. The agreements deepen bilateral cooperation through joint programs running through 2026–2028, strengthen institutional collaboration, and expand cultural and academic partnerships, marking a significant step forward in strategic ties between both nations.
Touch has boosted Lebanon’s mobile network capacity ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s visit, deploying temporary stations, enhancing coverage at major sites, and opening customer service centers during the event. Upgrades include expanded voice and data services, improved connectivity in key locations, and a special $1 package to support attendees and travelers.