Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Professor Yunus underlines the government’s dedication to transparent development of digital sectors and stresses gender equality as a foundation for a modern, inclusive Bangladesh.
QFMA is set to issue a draft regulation for the use of AI in Qatar’s financial market, emphasizing the importance of understanding AI’s role in financial regulation. This follows the IOSCO conference, which strengthens investor confidence and focuses on sustainable financial practices.
Pakistan is moving toward finalizing the MVNO framework after prolonged delays, aiming to boost competition and expand mobile services by allowing new entrants into the market. The framework will soon be presented to the federal cabinet for approval.
Sri Lanka’s pause on Starlink rollout underscores a deeper debate over digital sovereignty, as the government seeks to balance security concerns with the need for affordable and resilient connectivity in underserved areas. The decision highlights the importance of regulatory clarity in managing foreign digital services.
Bangladesh’s BTRC draft telecom policy aims to reform licensing but raises concerns over foreign ownership, anti-competitive consolidation, and market inequalities. Experts worry it may sideline local entrepreneurs while empowering dominant players, potentially undermining fair competition and regulatory transparency in the telecom sector.
The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) of Qatar has released a Position Paper on IoT and M2M technologies, aiming to create a regulatory framework that promotes innovation, security, and economic growth. The paper supports investment, ensures consumer protection, and strengthens Qatar’s position as a regional leader in advanced digital technologies.
Syria’s Ministry of Communications has launched the SilkLink project, aimed at enhancing the country’s optical fiber infrastructure and establishing a regional internet hub. The project will connect Syria to Europe and Asia, improve regional connectivity, and support economic growth. It follows the “Ugarit 2” project to boost internet capacity.
The 28th meeting of GCC Information Ministers, chaired by Kuwait’s Minister of Information, focused on enhancing Gulf media cooperation. Dr. Ramzan Al Noaimi emphasized Bahrain’s support for joint action, advocating for modern tech integration, AI use in content creation, and fostering national talent to reflect the Gulf’s shared identity.
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has granted Starlink a 90-day waiver to supply bandwidth from outside the country, as the company works to establish a local gateway. This move ensures Starlink can meet the government’s target for launching commercial satellite internet services in Bangladesh.
All schools in Buraimi Governorate are now connected to high-speed Internet, with 100% coverage via fiber optics and 5G. Residential areas also benefit from 5G and fiber-optic broadband, with satellite services for remote villages. TRA has expanded 5G and 4G stations and completed 32 telecom projects in 2024.