Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) has partnered with PUBG Mobile to integrate Saudi eLeague into the PUBG Mobile National Championship. The winner will qualify for the PUBG Mobile World Cup, with a $3 million prize pool. The collaboration aims to enhance Saudi Arabia’s esports ecosystem and provide growth opportunities for local players.
Qatar Airways unveiled an Arabic-enabled version of Sama, the world’s first AI digital cabin crew, at ATM 2025 in Dubai. The airline also introduced a virtual reality tour of Hamad International Airport and showcased its Qsuite Next Gen. Additionally, QA announced increased summer flights and signed new tourism partnerships.
Bangladesh’s e-commerce sector is growing rapidly, but cash reliance remains a challenge. Efforts to transition to digital payments are underway, with initiatives to improve consumer confidence, simplify merchant onboarding, and enhance mobile payment solutions. As infrastructure improves, the sector could significantly contribute to the country’s economy and global integration.
Premier Inn Middle East has partnered with The Digital Hotelier to introduce innovative digital solutions across the GCC, aiming to drive sustainability in the hospitality sector. Their collaboration includes a real-time environmental impact dashboard to track resource conservation and waste reduction, aligning with regional sustainability efforts.
The MENA mobile market is projected to reach $360 billion by 2030, driven by mobile internet use, mVAS services, and rapid 5G adoption. With growing local content and network investments, the region faces challenges like connectivity gaps and regulatory issues but remains a key growth market for mobile services.
Prof Muhammad Yunus launched the “Labbaik” app to support Hajj pilgrims with services like emergency assistance, flight details, and health support. The app aims to ensure pilgrims can perform their duties smoothly. The first Hajj flight from Dhaka departs today, with over 87,000 Bangladeshi pilgrims registered.
Vodafone Business and Maroc Telecom have signed an MoU to enhance digital services and connectivity in Morocco. The initial phase focuses on smart city and energy management, with plans to expand into SD-WAN, mobile private networks, and cybersecurity. The collaboration supports Morocco’s goal of becoming a digital hub by 2030.
Zain Iraq has partnered with KRAFTON Europe to empower Iraqi youth and boost the country’s gaming and esports scene. The MoU will launch initiatives under the Zain esports brand, bring KRAFTON’s premium gaming portfolio to Iraq, and organize specialized events tailored to local esports enthusiasts.
Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality has launched 17 new agricultural services on the ‘Oun’ app, part of its digital transformation project. The services streamline permit issuance for agricultural imports and enhance efficiency through digital processes. The ministry is working on developing 400 services to improve accessibility and support smart city initiatives.
China Mobile Communications Corporation (CMCC) visited Pakistan’s Ministry of IT, discussing digital cooperation under CPEC. Key topics included AI-enabled data centers, 5G development, regional connectivity, and collaboration with Chinese digital platforms. These efforts align with Pakistan’s Digital Vision, aiming for higher internet speeds, broadband access, and smartphone penetration.