Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority participated in ITU’s WTDC-25 in Baku, contributing to policy discussions on ICT development and digital inclusion. The delegation highlighted Bahrain’s digital transformation progress, supported Adel Darwish’s ITU leadership candidacy, and reaffirmed commitment to global, inclusive digital growth.
Oman’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority held a community dialogue session to address electronic fraud, AI-driven cyberattacks, and unlicensed network sharing. The discussion focused on awareness, regulatory readiness, and public engagement to strengthen cybersecurity, close regulatory gaps, and improve trust and service quality in the telecommunications sector.
Bahrain Police Day underscores the Interior Ministry’s role in strengthening national security and community safety. The Transportation and Telecommunications Minister praised strategic security advancements under Bahrain’s leadership and emphasized cross-ministerial collaboration to enhance government efficiency and public services for citizens and residents.
Egypt’s NTRA has warned citizens about advanced global smartphone hacking attempts exploiting unknown vulnerabilities. The authority urged users to update devices regularly, enable advanced security features, avoid suspicious links, use secure browsers, and activate two-factor authentication to reduce the risk of cyberattacks targeting mobile phones.
Egypt has granted tpay the country’s first licence to offer direct mobile billing for government services. The approval enables citizens to pay utility bills, fines, and official fees via mobile balances or bills, expanding digital payment access and supporting financial inclusion without requiring bank accounts or cards.
Banglalink has received Bangladesh Bank approval to operate as a payment service provider, enabling the launch of regulated digital payment and money transfer services. The move supports financial inclusion in Bangladesh, integrates payments into mobile experiences, and leverages VEON’s global expertise in digital financial services.
Pakistan’s Senate Committee reviewed progress on health, telecom, IT and aviation assurances, covering issues such as PIMS medical facilities, PMDC digital processes, Islamabad land possession, 4G rollout in Abbottabad, hospital lab systems, HIV/AIDS treatment access, airport outsourcing clarification and ongoing infrastructure plans. Departments were directed to submit detailed reports before the next session.
Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has renewed its framework agreement with Google Cloud at MWC25 Doha, allowing continued access to secure cloud services, generative AI, and advanced data analytics via the local Doha region. The partnership supports public-sector efficiency and aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Minister Jagdish Kharel visited Ncell’s data centre and pledged government support following protest-related damages of Rs 650 million. He praised Ncell’s contributions and encouraged further investment and rural expansion. Ncell announced a new Gen Z Pack and a scholarship programme for 100 SEE students annually.
Egypt’s telecom regulator has warned of a global wave of sophisticated smartphone hacking attempts affecting users in over 150 countries, including Egypt. The attacks exploit newly discovered security flaws and rely on malicious links disguised as trusted messages. Authorities are urging users to update devices, enable advanced security settings, use two-factor authentication, and stay alert to abnormal phone behavior.