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 Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) invites the public to vote for Saudi projects in the ITU WSIS Prizes 2025, supporting national initiatives in 18 categories. With 24 projects submitted, Saudi Arabia aims to promote digital development and advance the Sustainable Development Goals. Voting is open until April 30, 2025.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has set up a stall at the Overseas Pakistanis Convention 2025 in Islamabad, offering telecom-related services to overseas Pakistanis. The stall provides mobile registration services, telecom guidance, and digital services, supporting the government’s digital inclusion goals for both domestic and international Pakistanis.
Starlink has applied for a license from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to launch its satellite internet services in Bangladesh. The move comes after approval from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority. Starlink aims to expand connectivity in the country, navigating regulatory and environmental challenges for success.
Saudi Arabia has launched a unified digital platform, “Tasreeh,” for issuing Hajj permits to both domestic and international pilgrims. The platform integrates with the Nusuk and Tawakkalna apps to streamline access, verify permits, and enhance coordination. This innovation supports Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives for efficient pilgrimage management.
The Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) of Bahrain received the “Smart City Initiative Award 2025” for its MyGov mobile app at the Bahrain Smart Cities Summit. The app represents a significant achievement in digital transformation and government service innovation, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable growth through technology.
Algeria’s Minister of Communication, Mr. Mohamed Meziane, will inaugurate a series of regional forums aimed at fostering dialogue on the future of journalism and media ethics. These forums, starting in Oran, will address key issues such as digital transformation, media integrity, and the role of journalism in democracy.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, met with UNDP Resident Representative Asmaa Shalabi to discuss enhancing cooperation in transportation, telecommunications, and digital transformation. The talks focused on supporting joint initiatives in line with Bahrain’s Economic Vision and the SDGs 2030.
Dr. Yarub Badr, Minister of Transport, held discussions with the Arab Internet and Telecom Union (ARISPA) to strengthen collaboration on digital transformation and AI in the transport sector. The talks also focused on the upcoming regional conference in Damascus about AI and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to innovation.
Jordan has introduced a mobile device registration requirement for individuals bringing devices from abroad, aiming to prevent telecom service disruptions and curb smuggling. Devices imported through official channels will be classified under “white,” “black,” or “gray” lists, with smuggled devices being blocked by telecom providers.
The Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) and the Ministry of Labour have opened registration for the third batch of Bahrain’s Technical Development Programme (TTDP), aimed at training Bahraini IT graduates. The program will provide on-the-job training, enhancing skills for employment in the public and private sectors. Registration ends May 30.