Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
A CoSP11 session in Doha highlighted how artificial intelligence and digital platforms can strengthen integrity in government procurement. Experts from Brazil, Siemens Energy, and Petrobras shared real-world tools that automate compliance checks, reduce corruption risks, and support proactive oversight, while stressing the need for strong data, skills, and legal frameworks.
Saudi Arabia’s SDAIA and ICESCO have agreed to work together to implement the Riyadh Charter on Artificial Intelligence across 53 Islamic countries. The initiative aims to create a unified, ethical AI governance framework, build national AI capabilities, promote responsible innovation, and align AI development with humanitarian values and sustainable development goals.
Pakistan is set to introduce Beep, a locally developed, encrypted messaging app for government officials, designed to secure official communications and integrate with the federal e-Office system. The launch comes amid broader concerns over telecom service quality and data security in the country.
Burgan Bank has launched a new Investor Relations mobile app for iOS and Android, providing real-time access to disclosures, financial data, and share performance. The platform strengthens transparency, investor engagement, and digital communication while ensuring high standards of security and regulatory compliance.
The UAE has issued its first official license for online gaming and sports wagering to Play971, operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC. Licensed by the GCGRA, the platform operates under strict age, location, and financial eligibility rules, reflecting the country’s regulated approach to commercial gaming.
The DCO’s Digital Economy Trends 2026 report projects the digital economy will reach $28 trillion next year, growing three times faster than the global economy. Cybersecurity and AI-led transformation are identified as the most impactful forces shaping economic growth, inclusion, and resilience.
Saudi Arabia’s Absher platform processed more than 38 million electronic transactions in November, driven largely by digital identity services and document access. With over 28 million unified digital IDs issued, Absher continues to play a central role in advancing secure, integrated digital government services across the Kingdom.
Algeria has signed a sovereign cloud agreement to digitise youth services, enabling secure access to state cloud resources at the National Algerian Data Center. The partnership supports digital governance, data sovereignty, and service modernisation, aligning with national directives to accelerate public sector digital transformation for young citizens.
Yango Ride has launched a new in-app safety flow in Nepal, introducing personalised safety checklists, a dedicated safety centre, and enhanced ride monitoring. The update improves transparency around driver verification, speed control, and driving behaviour, reinforcing passenger safety and confidence throughout each journey.
Morocco’s E-Commerce Market Approaches $1.7 Billion in 2025 as Fashion, Electronics, and Beauty Drive Growth
Rabat: Morocco’s e-commerce market is projected to reach nearly $1.7 billion in revenue in 2025, reflecting sustained growth fueled by digital adoption and rising consumer confidence in online shopping, according to an analysis by Concli.com based on Statista’s Digital Market Outlook data. Online spending in Morocco has more than doubled since 2017, driven primarily by fashion, consumer electronics, and beauty and personal care products.
Fashion remains the country’s largest online segment, with revenues expected to reach $556 million by the end of 2025. Apparel accounts for the majority of spending, followed by accessories and footwear. Growth is supported by a young, digitally engaged population, the popularity of fast-fashion platforms and social-commerce channels, and the growing availability of international brands through seasonal promotions.
Consumer electronics represent one of the fastest-growing categories, with revenues forecast to exceed $370 million in 2025. Smartphones account for nearly two-thirds of the segment, reflecting Morocco’s mobile-first consumer behaviour. Rising demand for mid-range devices, faster replacement cycles, increased availability of refurbished products, and broader use of digital payments continue to accelerate online electronics sales.
Beauty and personal care are also emerging as a dynamic growth area, with revenues projected to surpass $111 million this year. While personal care products remain the foundation of the segment, cosmetics and skincare are expanding most rapidly, driven by social media influence, rising interest in skincare routines, improved trust in certified sellers, and wider online availability of both local and international brands.
The continued expansion of e-commerce highlights Morocco’s maturing digital economy, supported by improved logistics, increased digital literacy, and wider adoption of electronic payments and mobile wallets. However, challenges remain, including heavy reliance on cash-on-delivery, return policy clarity, and the need to ensure product authenticity. Platforms that emphasise transparency and consumer trust are expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping safer online shopping experiences.