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 Bahraini Journalists Association thanked HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for his support in enacting Bahrain’s new Press and Digital Media Law. The legislation protects journalists’ rights, strengthens responsible reporting, and reflects HRH’s commitment to modernizing Bahrain’s media landscape under His Majesty the King’s leadership.
Wateen Telecom has secured a 20-year renewal of its LDI license from the PTA after resolving APC-related issues. The move reinforces Wateen’s position as a key enabler of Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, supporting nationwide fiber expansion and 5G readiness through compliance, innovation, and operational excellence.
Pakistan’s IT Minister Shaza Fatima announced that the government will soon release its 5G spectrum policy, including the auction of 600 MHz for next-generation services. Alongside, new frameworks for infrastructure sharing and satellite communication have been approved. The government also plans a “Smartphones for All” initiative to promote affordability and inclusion. Pakistan’s telecom sector continues to expand rapidly, with strong subscriber growth, a 17% annual revenue increase, and booming e-commerce activity.
Bangladesh Bank has ordered 13 mobile financial service providers to block online gambling transactions and use AI systems to detect illegal payments. The directive reinforces the central bank’s crackdown on digital financial misuse and aims to tighten oversight across Bangladesh’s MFS sector.
Nepal’s Communications Ministry expands its free Wi-Fi campaign across public and remote areas, partnering with telecom operators to boost digital inclusion and connectivity.
Kuwait has launched an integrated tourism and e-visa platform under Vision 2035, offering four visa types and comprehensive travel tools to enhance accessibility and promote cultural tourism.
Bangladesh Bank has intensified its crackdown on illegal online gambling, ordering MFS providers to strengthen AI-based monitoring and coordination with law enforcement to prevent illicit offshore fund transfers.
Saudi Arabia’s CST has issued a draft regulation to formalize space station registration, enhancing transparency, investment, and compliance in satellite communications while supporting Vision 2030’s digital and space economy goals.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has finalized new cybersecurity regulations requiring telecom operators to host data locally, appoint CISOs, conduct audits, and adopt a Zero Trust model, enhancing data protection and national cyber resilience.
Bahrain’s Interior Minister inaugurated the first Middle East Border Management & Technology Summit, bringing together experts from 22 nations to enhance security cooperation, technology integration, and data-driven border systems through AI, analytics, and cybersecurity innovations.