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 IMF report outlines the GCC nations’ ambitious digital transformation plans, aiming to boost the digital economy’s share of GDP and enhance government service digitalization. Targets include significant growth in digital economy contributions, with the UAE aiming for full government digitalization by 2025 and other nations setting similar goals.
Algeria’s Minister of Higher Education, Kamel Baddari, launched three new digital platforms at CERIST in Algiers: a cloud computing system, a drone platform, and a business incubator. These initiatives aim to drive innovation, support startups, and enhance Algeria’s digital economy, with plans to expand to 100 startups annually by 2027.
The Algerian government has launched two initiatives: a 2025 unemployment grant to support job seekers and a digital platform called “Parents’ Space” to improve communication between parents and schools. These programs aim to enhance citizens’ welfare and modernize the education sector through clear registration guidelines and accessible services.
Telecom Egypt has partnered with Truecaller to improve customer communication and experience. The collaboration features Truecaller’s Verified Business Caller ID and Video Caller ID capabilities, enabling customers to easily recognize incoming calls and engage with customized videos. This partnership enhances security, trust, and personalization for Telecom Egypt’s users.
The CDA plans to transform Islamabad into Pakistan’s first fully digital city, focusing on advanced traffic management, cashless transactions, and high-speed internet. Key initiatives include AI-based congestion analysis, QR code digital payments, and phased free Wi-Fi. These steps aim to enhance transparency, convenience, and modernize city infrastructure.
Despite reaching a $7.7 billion valuation in 2024, Pakistan’s e-commerce sector faces challenges, including unreliable internet, digital payment issues, and consumer skepticism. SMEs struggle to access global markets, and slow progress on government initiatives highlights the need for improvements in internet access and logistics infrastructure.
Mohamed Jawad, CFO of Oman Qatar Insurance Company, discusses growth drivers in Oman’s insurance sector, highlighting digital transformation, AI, and automation. He outlines how OQIC is leveraging technology for financial operations and claims management. Jawad also shares advice for aspiring CFOs and the importance of industry forums for knowledge sharing.
Crown Prince Hussein chaired a meeting urging the National Council for Future Technology to enhance digital infrastructure and align with technological needs. He emphasized the importance of using data and advanced technology to improve health services, productivity, and efficiency in the sector. Prime Minister Jafar Hassan also attended.
Dinar, a new digital platform launched in Bahrain, provides in-depth coverage and analysis of economic trends, investment opportunities, and government initiatives. It aims to foster public dialogue, enhance economic awareness, and support informed discourse through interactive tools, multimedia content, and expert commentary, contributing to Bahrain’s business landscape.
Orange Jordan has partnered with Al-Rai to accelerate digital transformation in the media sector, focusing on modernizing infrastructure and enhancing technological integration in journalism. The agreement aims to improve Jordan’s media landscape, with Orange Jordan reinforcing its role as a trusted digital leader offering innovative solutions for various sectors.