Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
ZTE and e& UAE have successfully completed a 5G private network Proof-of-Concept trial covering multi-band frequencies in the UAE. The trial validated technologies supporting real-time industrial applications like video streaming and intelligent alerts, reinforcing the partners’ commitment to accelerating digital transformation and fostering smart, sustainable industries across the region.
Omantel and GlobalTech Corporation have signed a non-binding MoU to explore collaboration on AI and Big Data services. The partnership aims to develop AI-driven solutions for sectors including fintech, retail, compliance, and HR, leveraging Omantel’s infrastructure and GlobalTech’s expertise. Aligned with Oman Vision 2040, this initiative supports economic diversification and technological innovation, aiming to enhance digital transformation and strengthen Oman’s position as a regional technology hub.
UiPath has appointed Sara Al-Alsheikh as Regional Vice President and Managing Director for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Based in Riyadh, she will lead growth and customer success initiatives amid increasing AI automation adoption across the Gulf. With extensive experience and a strong regional track record, Al-Alsheikh’s leadership supports the Gulf’s Vision 2030 goals of innovation, sustainable growth, and gender inclusion.
Ghana and the UAE’s Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation have signed a $1 billion agreement to build a large-scale innovation hub near Accra. The project, launching in 2026, aims to position Ghana as a continental leader in AI and digital technology, leveraging local talent trained under Ghana’s “One Million Coders” program. The UAE’s PCFC will bring funding, technology, and global partnerships to the initiative, marking their first hub in Africa. This strategic move is expected to create thousands of jobs and accelerate Africa’s digital transformation.
At the 2025 SAMENA Leaders’ Summit, ZTE demonstrated its pivotal role in driving MEA region’s digital transformation through integrated 5G, AI, and fixed broadband solutions. Emphasizing “Network + Computing + AI,” ZTE showcased innovations supporting smart cities, industrial automation, and digital inclusion, aligned with SAMENA’s vision for sustainable digital growth.
AXIAN Telecom has acquired an 8% stake in Jumia Technologies, reaffirming confidence in the e-commerce platform’s fintech and logistics strengths. This strategic move aligns with AXIAN’s mission to promote digital and financial inclusion across Africa. Jumia is focused on core markets and growth verticals under new leadership, signaling a strong turnaround.
stc group has launched IoT-based smart tents and an integrated digital system to enhance safety, coordination, and efficiency during Hajj. These innovations support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by ensuring real-time monitoring, emergency alerts, and seamless management, delivering a safer and more efficient pilgrimage experience for millions.
Kazakhstan is deepening strategic partnerships with Middle Eastern countries to boost logistics, digital innovation, renewable energy, and environmental cooperation. Key projects include expanding transit routes, developing AI and crypto hubs, establishing renewable energy farms with UAE’s Masdar, and enhancing water and biodiversity initiatives with Saudi Arabia. These collaborations align with Kazakhstan’s vision for sustainable growth and regional integration.
Doha-Based Logistics Startup ShipBee Raises $235,000 Pre-Seed Funding to Accelerate Growth
ShipBee, a Doha-based logistics startup offering AI-powered digital logistics solutions, has closed a $235,000 (QAR 855,000) pre-seed funding round. Led by Qatar-based GrowthX and supported by two angel investors along with $40,000 in founder bootstrapped capital, the deal values ShipBee at $1 million (QAR 3.57 million).
Founded in March 2024 by Tamer Raafat and Amer Azani, ShipBee provides a one-stop marketplace and SaaS platform for local and international logistics, featuring AI integration, mobile apps for users and drivers, and express shipping services. The company is incubated by Qatar Development Bank’s mobility incubator and the Digital Incubation Center.
This funding will enable ShipBee to expand its team, accelerate product development, secure government contracts, and scale operations regionally. The startup has already partnered with industry leaders such as Snoonu, Qatar Post, DHL, and China’s AI logistics firm NEXX, gaining traction in the Qatar and MENA logistics sector.
Tamer Raafat, CEO and co-founder, said, “This funding empowers us to scale our vision of simplifying logistics through cutting-edge technology. ShipBee aims to build a smart logistics ecosystem in Qatar and MENA leveraging AI and innovation.”
Hamad Al Hajri, CEO & Founder of GrowthX and Snoonu, expressed confidence in ShipBee’s potential: “ShipBee aligns perfectly with Qatar’s Vision 2030 to become a global logistics hub and digital economy leader. We are proud to support their pioneering vision to transform logistics in the region.”
Ncell and Uptrendly launch “League of Creators,” a nationwide contest empowering Nepali digital content creators with mentorship from top influencers, training, and a chance to win a Rs. 10 lakh brand deal. Open to creators aged 16+, it combines workshops, challenges, and live finale to boost Nepal’s digital creative ecosystem.