Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Nahda Tech Conference in Damascus, organized by the Syrian Computer Society and Ministry of Telecommunications, kicked off today. It features a training camp focused on entrepreneurship and IT projects. Minister Abdul Salam Heikal also launched “Hudhud,” a platform aimed at exporting Syrian products to global markets, enhancing the national economy.
Make it in the Emirates 2025 will be held from May 19-22 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center, focusing on advanced industries, AI, and sustainability. The event will feature the Emirati Handicrafts Pavilion, a Startup Pitch Competition, and over 700 exhibitors, emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to industrial innovation and economic growth.
The PTA, in collaboration with NCCIA, raided a telecom franchise in Islamabad involved in illegal SIM issuance. Authorities seized 30,000 SIMs, six BVS devices, and arrested two individuals. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat SIM-related fraud and misuse of biometric verification systems.
Somalia’s National Communications Authority (NCA) signed two MOUs with MCMC and CyberSecurity Malaysia to enhance digital regulation and cybersecurity collaboration. The agreements focus on 5G frameworks, cybersecurity threat prevention, and capacity building, aiming to improve Somalia’s digital infrastructure and readiness in the face of emerging challenges.
The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) of Qatar released a Position Paper on IoT and M2M technologies, aiming to foster innovation, security, and economic growth. The framework will provide clear regulatory standards, benefiting consumers, service providers, and businesses while strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading hub for digital technologies.
The PTA has issued an enforcement order against Telenor Pakistan for not meeting QoS standards. Despite improvements in some areas, Telenor must deploy a new site in Swabi by June 2025. The PTA warned of further actions if the operator fails to meet standards after reassessment.
The Liberian Telecommunications Authority (LTA) has launched an initiative to rehabilitate abandoned rural base stations deployed under the Universal Access Fund. The program will restore connectivity to underserved areas, beginning with Bomi, Gbarpolu, and Grand Cape Mount counties, while addressing challenges such as power supply and infrastructure security.
Lebanese Finance Minister Yassine Jaber visited Baghdad to meet with Iraqi officials, focusing on enhancing cooperation in fuel supply, telecommunications, and the proposed oil pipeline project. The discussions also included fiber optic connections linking Lebanon to Europe and addressing outstanding financial obligations. Additionally, Jaber discussed Lebanon’s educational sector needs.
Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) invites public feedback on the Global AI Hub Law, aimed at boosting digital infrastructure and attracting AI and data center investments. The law seeks to establish Saudi Arabia as a global digital hub, supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth in advanced technologies.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned mobile users against using tampered or cloned devices, emphasizing that IMEI tampering is a criminal offense. Violators could face hefty fines or imprisonment. PTA urges users to verify device status via DIRBS or PTA’s official app to avoid legal consequences.