Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications has joined the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA), aiming to enhance the Kingdom’s digital transformation and logistics integration. The membership will support Bahrain’s efforts in improving trade facilitation, maritime operations, and its ranking in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index.
The General Authority for Media Regulation in Saudi Arabia has emphasized that media practitioners must be professionally registered before working in the industry. Legal action will be taken against those unregistered, and violations could lead to suspension or revocation of licenses. This move aims to improve media sector governance and professionalism.
The Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) is showcasing digital solutions at the Innovation Summit, focusing on sustainable housing solutions. Key highlights include the eKey 2.0 app, which enables secure access to government services, and the “MyGov” app, offering 41 services. The iGA is supporting Bahrain’s digital transformation in the housing sector.
Oman’s telecom sector experienced strong growth in 2024, with increased mobile usage, broadband access, and a 72% rise in IoT connections. Revenues rose by 4%, while investments in infrastructure surpassed global averages. The country also made significant strides in expanding fiber-optic coverage and improving internet access in schools and homes.
The BTRC has unveiled a draft policy to reform Bangladesh’s telecom licensing framework, aiming to simplify the system, reduce operational costs, and encourage infrastructure sharing. However, ambiguities in the policy may lead to regulatory challenges. The reforms include a three-stage migration process, with full implementation set for 2027.
Oman’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) is rolling out new initiatives to improve telecom transparency. Key updates include a regulation to ensure accurate billing systems and the launch of the “Commercial Caller ID” project, requiring corporate call centers to identify themselves and their purpose, aiming to protect consumers.
Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, met with UNDP’s Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari to discuss enhancing cooperation in infrastructure, digital innovation, and artificial intelligence. The partnership aims to support Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Egypt’s smartphone market is stabilizing after the implementation of a whitelisting regulation to curb illegal imports. Although shipments dropped by 18%, the government’s strategy to boost local manufacturing and reduce reliance on grey markets could ensure long-term growth, despite challenges like higher prices for legally imported devices.
Starlink has applied to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) for a licence to operate in Bangladesh. With approval from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Starlink’s entry into the market would introduce satellite internet services under new NGSO guidelines. Pricing and reliability will be key for market success.
Pakistan’s mobile users face unreliable 3G and 4G services, despite the promise of 5G. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has not taken significant action against telecom companies for poor service, leading to frustration nationwide. Users report frequent signal drops and slow mobile data, with PTA’s fines yielding limited results.
