Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt’s telecom regulator has warned of a global wave of sophisticated smartphone hacking attempts affecting users in over 150 countries, including Egypt. The attacks exploit newly discovered security flaws and rely on malicious links disguised as trusted messages. Authorities are urging users to update devices, enable advanced security settings, use two-factor authentication, and stay alert to abnormal phone behavior.
Telenor Asia’s latest study shows that 96 percent of Bangladeshi internet users now regularly use artificial intelligence, reflecting rapid digital adoption across daily life and work. AI is increasingly used for learning, remote work, financial management, content creation, and personalized advice. The report highlights the growing responsibility of telecom operators to ensure secure, trusted digital infrastructure.
BIBF has partnered with BENEFIT Company to launch a self-paced e-learning programme focused on Anti-Money Laundering for BENEFIT employees. The digital training will enhance compliance knowledge, improve regulatory readiness, and align staff capabilities with global standards. Delivered through BIBF’s online platform, the programme supports Bahrain’s wider goal of strengthening its financial sector and workforce.
Visa has launched a new regional hub объединяющий Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman under one leadership structure as part of its CEMEA growth strategy. Led by Group Country Manager Ali Bailoun from Riyadh, the hub aims to accelerate digital payments, strengthen collaboration with banks, fintechs, and merchants, and support national transformation agendas such as Saudi Vision 2030. The move enhances Visa’s agility and regional impact.
The IAEA and Algeria have signed a joint declaration to expand cooperation on nuclear energy, water management, and sustainable development. The partnership includes support for Small Modular Reactors for electricity and desalination, nuclear applications for agriculture and water security, and technical capacity building. The agreement strengthens Algeria’s long-term energy diversification, food security, and healthcare ambitions through peaceful nuclear technology.
e& UAE has integrated Amdocs’ telco-specific AI agents across customer care, retail, and network operations using the amAIz generative AI platform, supported by NVIDIA AI Enterprise. The deployment introduces role-based security guardrails, operational automation, smarter customer interactions, and efficiency gains. The initiative positions e& UAE as a regional leader in production-scale generative AI adoption in telecom.
Edotco has launched major sustainability initiatives in both Bangladesh and Malaysia, focusing on circular economy practices and low-carbon telecom infrastructure. In Bangladesh, a new partnership with state-owned TSS will establish a lithium-ion battery repair and refurbishment centre to reduce e-waste and build local technical capacity. In Malaysia, Edotco introduced the country’s first biochar-based telecom pole, cutting carbon emissions by up to 15 percent and improving installation efficiency. Together, these projects reinforce Edotco’s commitment to green, resilient network development across Asia.
Paribu has acquired CoinMENA for $240 million in Türkiye’s largest fintech transaction and its first international digital asset platform deal. The acquisition gives Paribu regulated access to MENA through licenses in Dubai and Bahrain, strengthening its regional expansion strategy. The deal highlights growing consolidation in the global crypto industry and positions Paribu as a major regulated player across Türkiye and the Middle East.
Qualcomm, Aramco, and RDIA have completed the first year of the DISAI accelerator program, supporting Saudi startups in AI, IoT, and wireless technologies. The program provided technical mentorship, commercialization guidance, and IP training, giving startups access to advanced platforms and global business opportunities. The initiative reinforces Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global hub for deep-tech innovation.
Beyon Money has launched live stablecoin-powered cross-border payments through a new partnership with global money transfer operator SwiftX. Using blockchain-based settlement, the solution enables faster, cheaper, and more transparent international transactions while reducing foreign exchange and operational costs. The collaboration strengthens Bahrain’s fintech ecosystem and positions Beyon Money as a regional leader in next-generation digital payment infrastructure.