Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Royal Rapchee, a new OTT platform, has launched to offer affordable, premium content across South Asia and the Middle East. With a focus on fresh talent and culturally relevant material, it plans to expand regionally and offer AI-driven recommendations, high-speed streaming, and offline viewing with multiple subscription options.
Zain Group has launched its Global M2M offering to simplify IoT connectivity for OEMs across the Middle East. The solution streamlines integration, ensures regulatory compliance, and reduces operational costs by providing a single point of connectivity. Zain aims to be the preferred partner for digital transformation in the region.
Bahrain has launched the MyGov app, providing citizens with easy access to public services such as passport issuance, residency applications, traffic services, and more. The app features secure biometric authentication and integrates various government services, aiming to enhance Bahrain’s digital transformation and improve service accessibility for citizens.
The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) in Afghanistan has mandated that mobile phone importers secure licenses from the Afghanistan Telecom Regulatory Authority (ATRA). This new regulation aims to prevent the import of counterfeit phones and ensure proper registration of IMEI numbers to safeguard citizens’ devices and streamline procedures.
Omantel has partnered with TeKnowledge to launch an AI and data science skilling program aimed at equipping its employees with advanced digital skills. The initiative supports Oman’s digital transformation and economic diversification, positioning Omantel as a leader in AI-powered services while promoting sustainable growth and innovation.
Algeria has broken ground on an AI data center in Oran, aiming to boost technological access for researchers and startups. The facility is part of the country’s broader strategy to grow its AI sector, contributing 7% to its GDP by 2027, and positioning Algeria as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.
Telecommunications networks in Makkah and Madinah performed exceptionally during Ramadan, handling over 320 million calls. The 5G coverage reached 98% in Makkah and 99% in Madinah. Mobile data usage exceeded global averages, with speeds reaching 210 Mbps in Makkah and 278 Mbps in Madinah, ensuring seamless communication for worshippers.
e& UAE has deployed Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) to enhance its optical network with ultra-high-speed 400G connectivity, supporting 10Gb home services and AI data center hubs. This deployment doubles its data transmission capacity to 1.6 Tb/s per wavelength, reinforcing the company’s digital transformation and AI readiness.
Sri Lanka’s Central Bank is hosting a digital payments promotion event in Nuwara Eliya to encourage mobile payment app registrations. The event will provide a platform for service providers and MSMEs to showcase mobile payment tools, offering discounts and fostering awareness of secure, cost-effective digital transactions.
AI Disrupt 2025, organized by Bluechip Technologies Asia, successfully showcased AI-driven innovations and their impact on businesses. Key highlights included discussions on AI applications, Large Language Models, productivity tools like Microsoft Copilot, and regional AI trends. The event underscored Sri Lanka’s growing role in AI education and adoption.