Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia’s e-commerce spending via mada cards surged 79% in July to $7.96B, with online transactions up 65%. Driven by a youthful population, near-universal connectivity, and policy reforms, the Kingdom’s cashless economy is accelerating under Vision 2030, supported by tokenized wallets, Google Pay’s launch, and frictionless digital checkouts.
Qatar will host MWC25 Doha, a major GSMA event connecting MENA with the global tech ecosystem. With AI, 5G, IoT, fintech, and smart city themes, the event will attract 100+ countries, debut the Digital Leaders Program in MENA, and reinforce Qatar’s role in digital transformation under Vision 2030.
Kuwait has launched the second edition of its Digital Skills Development Initiative with Google Cloud, focusing on cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity training for public sector employees. The program supports Vision 2035 goals by boosting government efficiency, nurturing talent, and positioning Kuwait as a regional digital innovation hub.
The Family Office has launched its Financial Goal app in the GCC, offering users tools to plan and track retirement, education, and legacy goals. With scenario simulations, expert-led strategies, and private market access, the app enhances wealth planning while integrating seamlessly into The Family Office Client App.
The World Bank has launched the $100 million Digital Zambia Acceleration Project to expand broadband access, e-government services, and digital skills development. Targeting women, youth, and vulnerable groups, the project supports agriculture, health, and education sectors, while aligning with Zambia’s Vision 2030 and broader regional digital integration goals.
Morocco plans to strengthen cooperation with Azerbaijan on digitizing labor markets, AI-driven transformation, and youth training between 2026–2028. With Morocco’s strong automotive and aviation sectors and Azerbaijan’s oil and gas potential, joint investments and experience-sharing will help build a skilled workforce and future-ready labor systems.
BeshiDeshi’s mobile-first e-learning platform empowers 5,000+ artisans in Bangladesh with practical digital skills, boosting sales by 30–40% and enabling sustainable businesses. Tailored Bangla video lessons, financial access, and market support create a full ecosystem that preserves crafts, builds confidence, and connects artisans to digital markets.
Algeria has launched a new technology hub in Algiers under the NIIF to boost digital transformation, particularly in finance. Partnering with major telecom and IT firms, the hub consolidates expertise and infrastructure to modernize institutions, spur economic growth, and strengthen Algeria’s role in the regional technology ecosystem.
Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has joined GovPay, enabling secure online payments for tourism levies and services. The integration streamlines processes, enhances transparency, and supports Sri Lanka’s digital economy agenda, making tourism more efficient and aligned with the country’s economic revival strategy.
Morocco presented its Digital Morocco 2030 strategy at the Ten Geopolitical Meetings in France, highlighting public sector modernization, AI, and Africa-focused initiatives. It is preparing to launch the D4SD initiative at the UNGA, in partnership with UNDP, to position Morocco as a global Arab-African digital hub.