Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Kuwait is reinforcing digital transformation as a core pillar of Vision 2035, with strong national indicators in connectivity, 5G leadership, and digital readiness. The conference serves as a key platform connecting policymakers and innovators to drive AI-powered governance, economic diversification, and future-focused public services.
Jordan delivered new entrepreneurship programs, regulatory reforms, and cybersecurity initiatives in October, while boosting international digital cooperation and improving postal and financial services — reinforcing the kingdom’s momentum in digital economy development.
Pakistan is accelerating its digital transformation as a key driver of economic security, export growth, and global competitiveness, supported by strong government backing, startup momentum, digital skills expansion, and major technology partnerships.
The UAE leads the GCC in lowest cash usage, reflecting rapid fintech adoption and strong national strategies to modernize payments, though global disparities show many countries are far behind the shift to cashless economies.
Côte d’Ivoire is seeking Algeria’s digital expertise to accelerate ICT growth, strengthen telecom infrastructure, and boost long-term GDP contribution through collaboration and investment in postal and digital services.
Sri Lanka’s 2026 budget earmarks nearly $100 million to accelerate national digital transformation through digital IDs, e-government systems, payments modernization, and workforce upskilling. Meanwhile, Togo is digitizing energy ministry services as part of a broader nationwide e-government strategy. These efforts reflect a regional acceleration in digitalization across Asia and Africa, despite challenges such as talent shortages and infrastructure concerns.
Egypt’s Central Bank (CBE) has launched the Haweya digital ID platform—starting with a new website and soon a mobile app—to accelerate financial inclusion and simplify access to public and private services nationwide. The initiative introduces a unified biometric digital identity that will allow Egyptians to verify their identity, open bank accounts, and complete eKYC processes entirely online.
Oman’s ‘Maak’ application has modernised the country’s employment system by digitising 76% of labour services and simplifying recruitment for job-seekers and employers. With millions of applications processed and thousands of contracts finalised, the platform enhances transparency, reduces hiring costs, and improves overall service efficiency as Oman advances its digital labour market strategy.
Kuwait’s Sahel platform is transforming public services with integrated digital journeys, cutting processes from months to minutes and surpassing three million users. Expanded services, streamlined user journeys, and major platform upgrades mark a major leap toward a unified, citizen-centric digital government.
Kuwait used the Arab Technology Forum to showcase its digital transformation success, AI ambitions, and youth-focused innovation strategy. With strong private-sector participation and plans for expanded engagement next year, Kuwait is strengthening its role as a regional tech leader and deepening cooperation with Europe.