Apple Pay is expanding in the UAE and Qatar by adding support for new card networks, including UAE’s Jaywan and Qatar’s Himyan. This will allow more customers in both countries to use Apple Pay for secure mobile transactions, enhancing the service’s reach and accessibility in the region.
stc has achieved 100% compliance with the GSMA’s signalling security guidelines, making it one of the few telecom operators globally to do so. In partnership with Enea, stc has implemented robust security measures to protect its network from data leaks, unauthorized tracking, and communication interception.
UAE and Saudi Arabia are moving forward with plans for 6G networks, with the UAE targeting a 2030 launch. However, telecom experts question the business case for 6G due to slowing data growth in MENA and the high costs of deploying 6G infrastructure compared to the ongoing expansion of 5G.
Ajras, a Saudi proptech company, has raised US$1.5 million in a pre-Series A funding round led by Veda Holding. The funding will support the expansion of its “Rent Now, Pay Later” program for commercial and industrial properties. The startup had previously raised US$28 million in a seed round.
Riyadh is set to lead data center growth in the Middle East, with a 37% annual growth rate expected through 2027. Driven by Saudi Arabia’s focus on digital transformation and AI initiatives, global tech companies like Microsoft and AWS are investing heavily, positioning the country as an AI powerhouse.
DigitalOcean has opened its new headquarters in Karachi, Pakistan, in collaboration with COLABS. The move supports DigitalOcean’s growth in the region, offering tailored workspaces and advanced tech infrastructure to foster innovation and collaboration within Pakistan’s growing tech ecosystem, benefiting startups, developers, and SMEs.
Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system is undergoing a digital transformation, with significant investments in telemedicine, mobile health apps, and AI technologies. This shift aims to improve patient care, increase accessibility, and lower costs, particularly in rural areas. The country’s Vision 2030 and growing healthcare budget support these efforts.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) has submitted the Telecom Equipment Standards Regulations to the Cabinet Committee for Legislative Cases for review. The regulations focus on ensuring telecom equipment meets technical standards to enhance security, network performance, and consumer protection, with a dedicated directorate for compliance.
stc and Juniper Networks have upgraded stc’s 5G-ready network security with AI-powered automation features. This collaboration improves data processing speed, reduces power consumption, enhances security, and lowers costs. The enhancements offer faster, more efficient services to stc’s customers, aligning with sustainability goals and improving the overall user experience.
Kacific and Paksat International have partnered to enhance broadband connectivity in Pakistan using the Paksat-MM1 satellite. This collaboration will provide affordable, high-speed internet, especially in remote regions, improving mobile backhaul, backup connectivity, and supporting businesses, government agencies, and ISPs, while boosting digital inclusion across the country.
