Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Telecom Review Africa’s webinar highlighted fintech’s potential to add USD 47 billion to Africa’s economy by 2028. Experts emphasized inclusion, mobile-first services, interoperability, and partnerships with banks and telcos as key drivers. Closing the MSME credit gap, expanding digital literacy, and leveraging AI, blockchain, and open banking will define Africa’s fintech future.
EdVentures has invested in LRNOVA, backing its AI-powered platform that digitises curricula into interactive learning content with Arabic and cultural localisation. The deal positions LRNOVA for Gulf expansion and reflects a shift toward applied AI in MENA edtech, with institutional adoption as the key growth lever.
Network International has partnered with Libya’s National Union Bank to advance digital payments. The fintech will provide prepaid card issuance, fraud prevention, and managed services under its Digital Payments as a Service model, supporting NUB’s digital transformation and Libya’s broader financial inclusion goals.
Saudi Arabia has unveiled new digital payment initiatives with Ant International, Google Pay, and Thunes. Key moves include cross-border QR payments via Alipay+ in 2026, Google Pay integration with the mada system, and real-time remittance services through barq and Thunes, advancing Vision 2030 goals of inclusivity and financial innovation.
Google Pay has launched in Saudi Arabia through SAMA’s mada payment system, allowing users to manage mada and credit cards via Google Wallet. The move supports Vision 2030 goals of reducing cash use and reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a global fintech leader.
Saudi Arabia’s SAMA and Ant International will roll out Alipay+ in 2026, enabling cross-border QR payments via the mada system. The initiative supports Vision 2030 goals of boosting digital payments, empowering SMEs, and enhancing the Kingdom’s status as a global tourism and innovation hub.
Vodafone Oman and Software Group have signed an MoU to co-develop digital financial services, including mobile wallets and digital lending, using the DigiWave platform. The partnership supports Vision 2040 by boosting Oman’s digital economy, enhancing financial inclusion, and offering secure, customer-focused financial solutions.
SLA Digital has partnered with VUZ to enable seamless carrier billing for immersive 360° and VR video content. Already live in Malaysia and Bahrain, the service allows VUZ users to subscribe to premium experiences directly via mobile bills, expanding access across the Middle East and Asia.
Visa has launched the world’s first locally hosted Visa Acceptance Platform in Saudi Arabia, enabling faster, more secure digital payments. Supporting mada and digital wallets, the move aligns with SAMA regulations and Vision 2030, helping merchants boost efficiency, approval rates, and customer experience in the Kingdom’s cashless economy.
Google Pay and Alipay have launched in Saudi Arabia, supporting Vision 2030’s cashless economy goals. Their entry expands digital payment options, boosts financial inclusion, and strengthens the fintech ecosystem while fueling e-commerce and retail growth across the Kingdom.