Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Iraq has reinstated a 20 percent tax on mobile and internet recharge cards to boost revenues and address budget constraints. Critics argue the move shifts the burden to consumers despite legal responsibility resting with telecom companies, raising concerns over service quality, fairness, and fiscal priorities.
Bangladesh has approved the Telecommunication (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, guaranteeing uninterrupted internet access by legally prohibiting shutdowns under any circumstances. The ordinance strengthens telecom regulation, protects data privacy, enhances national security safeguards, and aligns the sector with international standards to support investment and digital resilience.
Bangladesh will reduce the maximum number of SIM cards per person from 10 to five starting January 2026, aiming to curb mobile-related crimes and tighten regulatory control ahead of elections. Excess SIMs will be deactivated, though IoT SIMs will follow a separate process. The move has sparked mixed reactions among users and operators.
Pakistan plans a major telecom spectrum auction in early 2026 to address network congestion and improve internet quality. The government aims to auction nearly 600 MHz of spectrum, the largest in its history, enabling better 3G and 4G services and supporting the country’s first rollout of 5G, following approval of the framework by the ECC.
Bahrain’s telecommunications regulator has authorised satellite direct-to-device services, allowing standard mobile phones to connect directly to satellites beyond terrestrial coverage. While commercial services are not yet live, the move positions Bahrain as a regional first and lays the groundwork for pilot deployments, emergency connectivity, and wider satellite-based communications.
Pakistan’s telecom regulator has revised IoT and SRD regulations to support nationwide IoT growth through licensed and shared spectrum use. The framework introduces a new LPWAN licence, enables licence-exempt devices under strict conditions, enforces data localisation, and supports R&D trials, aiming to drive smart cities and industrial automation.
The launch of Satellite Direct-to-Device services positions Bahrain as the first GCC country to authorise mobile-to-satellite connectivity. The initiative allows standard mobile phones to connect beyond terrestrial networks, including maritime areas, enhancing safety, resilience, and nationwide connectivity while reinforcing Bahrain’s role as a regional leader in advanced telecommunications.
Nigeria’s telecom subscriptions reached 175.3 million in October 2025, with teledensity rising to 80.87 percent and broadband penetration hitting 49.89%. While steady growth reflects rising demand for mobile and data services, industry stakeholders say faster broadband expansion and improved service quality remain critical for digital inclusion.
Bahrain’s Transportation and Telecommunications Minister met with the French Ambassador to review bilateral relations and cooperation. The discussion focused on strengthening coordination, exchanging expertise, and expanding partnerships, particularly in transportation and telecommunications, reflecting the strong and constructive ties between Bahrain and France.
Bangladesh’s telecom regulator has urged Meta to act faster against violence-inciting content on Facebook, warning that delays are worsening unrest during a fragile political transition. The move follows attacks on media outlets and concerns over election-related violence ahead of polls scheduled for February 2026.