Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Oman’s e-commerce sector is rapidly expanding, driven by social media marketing and regulatory support. While challenges like fraud and cancellations persist, government initiatives aim to build a secure, advanced digital trade environment.
Mobile phone ownership in Nepal exceeds 80%, yet only 6% use mobile money. Despite this, mobile money drives formal savings growth amid persistent gender and access gaps. Digital finance and financial inclusion show promise for empowerment and economic development.
MyMonty teams up with Mastercard to boost digital payment solutions in Lebanon, enhancing transaction security and convenience while supporting the nation’s transition to a cashless digital economy.
Kuwait’s WAMD real-time payments system rapidly gains traction, powered by KNET and ACI Worldwide. The platform drives instant, secure digital transactions nationwide, fostering financial inclusion and innovation aligned with Kuwait’s digital transformation goals.
Iraq is advancing efforts to introduce Apple Pay, engaging with Apple’s regional team to meet technical requirements and expand digital payment options, supporting financial inclusion and electronic payment growth.
Egypt advances maritime safety by releasing S-101 hydrographic datasets for Alexandria and Port Said, embracing digital navigation standards under the S-100 framework and enhancing chart precision aligned with global best practices.
Bahrain’s Ministry of Social Development collaborates with NBB and Atyaf eSolutions to create a digital platform that enhances service delivery and efficiency for civil society organisations, supporting national social development and transparency goals.
Algeria’s HTT and China’s Xiamen Airlines signed a framework to boost digital tourism cooperation, aligning with Algeria’s strategic digitalization goals. SITEV 2025 highlighted diverse exhibitors, cultural heritage, and innovation, reinforcing Algeria-China ties and promoting tourism as a key economic driver.
Al Baida Group and Elm Company signed an MoU to collaborate on digital transformation projects in Qatar, combining Elm’s regional digital expertise with Al Baida’s strong local presence to support the country’s innovation and government digitalization goals.
Shahid and Al-Manassa have partnered to provide Iraqi audiences with expanded access to licensed Arabic video-on-demand and live TV, strengthening the country’s legal digital entertainment landscape and enhancing content diversity.