Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Ethio Telecom and Somaliland-based ISP Somcable are exploring a strategic cross-border partnership to expand regional digital connectivity. The talks focus on leveraging infrastructure, subsea cable assets, and shared expertise to accelerate growth, align with Ethio Telecom’s “Digital & Beyond 2028” strategy, and advance digital empowerment across East Africa.
Dialog Axiata has integrated Sri Lanka’s GovPay platform into its eZ Cash network, allowing citizens to pay for government services at more than 55,000 retail outlets nationwide. The move expands access to public payments, supports financial inclusion, and strengthens the reach of digital government services across all regions.
du and Cisco Networking Academy have launched a new AI and data science certification programme for UAE youth, offering hands-on training with generative AI tools and analytics platforms. The initiative supports Vision 2071, strengthens employability, and builds a future-ready workforce for the country’s digital economy.
Saudi Arabia concluded a major digital empowerment forum with the launch of a SAR100 million lending portfolio for non-profits, alongside new advisory and revenue-building initiatives. The event brought together over 3,000 participants to advance digital transformation, data protection, and impact measurement, strengthening the sector’s financial resilience under Vision 2030.
QIC will appear as a Diamond Sponsor at Web Summit Qatar 2026, unveiling its insurance-powered digital ecosystem through a dedicated pavilion, partnerships, and thought leadership. The showcase highlights QIC’s transformation into a single-platform digital provider aligned with Qatar’s national vision and financial sector strategy.
Ooredoo will return as Diamond Sponsor of Web Summit Qatar 2026, showcasing AI, connectivity, and startup innovation through an immersive Innovation Hub Pavilion. The sponsorship reinforces Ooredoo’s role in enabling Qatar’s National Digital Strategy 2030 and positions the company at the centre of the country’s growing global technology ecosystem.
A Chinese delegation from Leviathan Group met Pakistan’s IT minister to explore long-term partnerships and investment in the country’s technology sector. Citing Pakistan’s digital growth and skilled workforce, both sides agreed to pursue collaboration aligned with the government’s Digital Nation Pakistan vision.
UNESCO marked Pakistan’s 16 Days of Activism by confronting digital gender-based violence through advocacy, art, and youth engagement. From policy dialogue to the “Seen & Unseen” exhibition and digital safety campaigns, the initiative exposed online abuse, humanised its impact, and equipped women with tools for protection and digital literacy.
SLB has been awarded two five-year contracts by PDO to supply wellheads and artificial lift systems for Oman’s Block-6. The deals expand local manufacturing in Rusayl and Nizwa, introduce made-in-Oman gate valves, and deploy advanced production technologies, reinforcing Oman’s in-country value agenda and long-term energy development.
Mercedes-Benz Oman secured its ninth consecutive “Most Trusted Brand” title by focusing on consistency, after-sales excellence, and technology-led ownership experiences. The brand is aligning luxury with digitalisation, AI-driven features, sustainability, and electric mobility, reinforcing long-term trust as Oman’s luxury market matures.