Grameenphone and Robi Axiata have secured an additional 20 MHz of spectrum each in Bangladesh’s 2.6 GHz band after two years of negotiations with the BTRC. The 15-year contracts, priced at BDT11.6 billion (US$98.6 million), will help improve service quality. The BTRC agreed to payment in local currency to address exchange rate concerns.
Qatar’s Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has opened public consultations on draft postal service licenses, inviting stakeholders to provide feedback. This initiative aims to enhance the postal sector, promote competition, and improve service quality. The consultations align with Qatar National Vision 2030 and will help CRA regulate the sector and protect consumer rights.
The UAE’s Telecommunications & Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has launched the operational phase of its ICT Regulatory Sandbox. This initiative allows new tech products and services in the ICT sector to be tested in a controlled environment before market release. It aims to ensure appropriate legislative responses and foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Sri Lanka has granted a license to Elon Musk’s Starlink, allowing the satellite internet provider to offer broadband services in the country. This follows a recent amendment to the telecommunications law, enabling Starlink’s entry. The move is part of Musk’s broader strategy to expand Starlink’s presence in South Asia, including India.
ATRA has initiated a $1.6 million project to construct 16 telecommunications centers in Faryab Province, Afghanistan. This initiative aims to improve communication services in 13 districts, addressing long-standing issues in remote areas. The project reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and connectivity, significantly benefiting local communities.
Bahrain achieved an 89% digital transformation rate in 2024, completing over 4 million eGovernment transactions. Key advancements include expanding eServices to over 700, reducing costs by 75%, and launching new systems like Sijilat 3.0. These efforts reflect Bahrain’s commitment to digital transformation and service quality improvement across all societal sectors.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and APNIC held cybersecurity workshops in Lahore and Islamabad, focusing on “Incident Response and CERT.” Led by Adli Wahid from APNIC, the sessions included theoretical and practical training. The event concluded with a certificate ceremony, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s cybersecurity capabilities.
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) has released the 3rd edition of the “Digital and Space Sustainability in Saudi Arabia” report. It highlights key initiatives and 13 success stories in environmental, economic, and social sustainability, showcasing the pivotal role of IT and space technologies in achieving sustainable development goals.
Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) achieved significant digital transformation milestones in H1 2024, including 4 million electronic transactions, BD374 million in digital payments, 35 new eServices, and partnerships with key entities. The iGA also launched major national systems and improved government service efficiency and effectiveness.
The Communications, Space and Technologies Commission (CST) announced the participation of 21 local and international companies in the second cohort of the Emerging Technologies Regulatory Sandbox (ETS). The sandbox supports entrepreneurs, promotes emerging technologies, and addresses regulatory challenges, targeting sectors like telecommunications, health, and energy with innovative solutions.
