The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and Gulf Air Group Holding Company (GFG) signed a golden sponsorship agreement for the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) 2024, scheduled for November 13-15 at Sakhir Air Base, under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Oman’s telecommunications regulatory authority, with licensed providers, will begin phasing out 3G mobile services in July. This initiative aims to optimize spectrum resources and invest in advanced technologies, enhancing service quality and promoting digital transformation, while ensuring a seamless transition for users.
ITIDA, Telecom Egypt, and Nokia have signed an MoU to establish an IP Excellence Center in Egypt, expanding Nokia’s operations and boosting Egypt’s ICT services exports. The center will serve 60 countries in the MEA region, leveraging local talent and enhancing Egypt’s role in the global digital ecosystem.
The Committee on Public Finance has approved the Sri Lanka Telecommunications (Amendment) Bill, aiming to regulate satellite-based internet services and modernize industry regulations. The bill, developed with stakeholder input, introduces new licensing types, strengthens the TRC’s powers, and promotes competitive market practices for consumer benefits.
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) represented Saudi Arabia at the Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR24) in Kampala, Uganda. The event fostered discussions among global ICT regulators and stakeholders, with Saudi Arabia showcasing its leadership in digital regulations. The symposium facilitated knowledge exchange and collaboration among over 70 nations.
State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak announced the launch of 5G services at Terminal 3 of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in October, following the prime minister’s directive to prioritize airports, seaports, business districts, and industrial zones. The announcement was made during a BTRC meeting in Dhaka.
GKT eSIM introduced its Digital Kiosk Display at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, designed for easy eSIM purchases in hotels, resorts, and airports. The company also announced special offers for UEFA Euro Cup 2024 and France Olympics 2024, providing unlimited data plans for travelers.
Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) has selected SpaceX to launch its advanced geostationary satellites, Al Yah 4 (AY4) and Al Yah 5 (AY5), using the Falcon 9 rocket. This agreement is part of a $5.1 billion mandate from the UAE Government, including design, manufacturing, and managed services by Airbus.
Dialog Axiata has completed the acquisition of Airtel Lanka through a share swap. Post-acquisition, Axiata holds 73.75% of Dialog, Bharti Airtel 10.355%, and the public 15.895%. Both brands will continue to serve customers while merging networks to enhance connectivity. The move aims to drive growth and innovation in Sri Lanka’s telecom sector.
Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Telenor, aims to connect 50 million internet users in Bangladesh within five years. The company recently surpassed 50 million subscribers and plans significant annual investments to upgrade its network. Celebratory offers include doubling internet speeds for 3G users. Grameenphone’s network covers 99% of the population.
