Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt secured its position as one of Africa’s top five technology investors in 2024, with $297 million invested in 89 deals. The country also leads Africa in fixed broadband internet speed and continues to make strides in digital infrastructure, ensuring it remains a key player in the continent’s technological transformation.
Bahrain plans to merge nine government apps into the MyGov app by 2025, simplifying access to services for individuals, businesses, and visitors. The integration includes adding new eServices, documents, and a unified payment feature, with the app already achieving 100,000 downloads within two weeks of its launch.
The UAE Ministry of Economy has launched a National Digital Platform to track the prices of essential commodities. The platform provides real-time data on goods like oil, eggs, and sugar, allowing officials to monitor prices and ensure compliance with established price ceilings, supporting market stability and consumer protection.
Sri Lanka will transition to digital TV to free up spectrum space for 5G deployment. The government is also constructing 276 towers to enhance broadband connectivity and support 5G rollout. A proposal for the establishment of a Digital Economy Authority is part of the country’s goal to expand its digital economy.
Qatar is preparing for the Web Summit Qatar 2025, aimed at boosting its tech ecosystem and driving digital transformation. With Doha Bank as a Platinum Partner, the summit will connect global leaders and highlight Qatar’s achievements in digital infrastructure and its Digital Agenda 2030 focused on inclusivity and accessibility.
Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has partnered with Al Mana Group to launch the Auto Marketplace, a platform integrated into the QIB Mobile App. This initiative offers customers a seamless car buying experience, including vehicle browsing, test drives, and financing—all digitally, simplifying the entire process.
Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to digitize afforestation efforts, focusing on documenting trees and calculating their environmental benefits. This initiative supports the ‘Forever Green’ campaign and the ‘Middle East Green Initiative,’ promoting greater environmental cooperation and sustainability between the two nations.
Dabchy, a Tunisia-based circular fashion marketplace, raised a seven-figure USD pre-Series A round to fuel expansion across MENA, focusing on Egypt. The platform, which serves over 1.3 million users, aims to revolutionize sustainable fashion and enhance its logistics and user experience, contributing to the growth of the second-hand market.
Mastercard’s SME Confidence Index reveals that Saudi SMEs are optimistic about 2025, embracing digital transformation through AI, data analytics, and digital payments. With 99% of SMEs accepting digital payments, businesses are driving growth. Mastercard continues to support SMEs with tailored solutions, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s economic goals.
Jordan and Kazakhstan have signed a memorandum of cooperation to enhance digital transformation, focusing on e-government, smart infrastructure, health tech, and cybersecurity. The partnership aims to foster innovation, support startups, and accelerate digital solutions in both countries, marking a significant step in global digital collaboration and economic development.