Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
e& UAE has launched its Neo Home plans, offering affordable high-speed internet with customizable entertainment options. Starting at AED 399 per month, the plans feature 1Gbps speeds, Amazon Prime, and TV add-ons. An all-inclusive option, Neo Fusion, offers more benefits for AED 799, including full-home Wi-Fi and extra entertainment subscriptions.
SAP has launched its Business Technology Platform (SAP BTP) on Google Cloud in Saudi Arabia, aimed at supporting regulated organizations in their digital transformation. This collaboration ensures compliance with local regulations while enhancing performance, scalability, and innovation, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and the country’s digital economy goals.
Pakistan’s Ministry of IT is finalizing the hiring of a consultant to develop regulations for Starlink internet access. The meeting, chaired by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, focused on expediting the regulatory process for Low Earth Orbit satellites, aiming to enhance connectivity and align Pakistan’s policies with global standards.
Damac Properties has announced a $20 billion investment in the US to develop data centres, aiming to support AI and cloud businesses. The investment, part of the first phase in several US states, reflects the company’s ongoing global expansion. This follows previous investments in Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Turkey.
SLT-Mobitel has successfully landed the SEA-ME-WE 6 submarine cable in Matara, Sri Lanka, marking a significant step in enhancing the country’s global connectivity. The cable, offering 130 Tbps of high-speed connectivity, will be operational by mid-2026, positioning Sri Lanka as a key player in the global telecommunications network.
Emirates Transport has partnered with e& enterprise to enhance vehicle connectivity and fleet efficiency using advanced connected vehicle technologies. The collaboration aims to improve road safety, reduce environmental impact, and optimize fleet performance, supporting the UAE’s vision for smarter and more sustainable urban mobility solutions.
Bangladesh has improved its global mobile internet speed ranking, moving up to 88th place in November 2024. The country’s mobile internet download speed increased to 28.26 Mbps, with Banglalink emerging as the fastest provider. Bangladesh also saw progress in fixed broadband performance, rising to 99th globally.
Helios Towers has appointed Manjit Dhillon as Executive Chair of its Oman subsidiary while maintaining his role as Group CFO. This leadership shift aims to strengthen operational oversight in the region, enhancing Helios Towers’ market strategies and positioning. The company is a major player in telecom infrastructure across Africa and the Middle East.
Elon Musk has confirmed that Starlink, his satellite internet service, is set to launch in Pakistan pending government approval. This development comes amid Pakistan’s struggles with internet disruptions and infrastructure challenges. Starlink’s technology promises to revolutionize internet access, offering high-speed satellite connectivity to both urban and remote areas.
Satellite internet is transforming connectivity in the GCC, bridging the digital divide and empowering remote communities. By enhancing access to services like education, healthcare, and e-commerce, it’s driving innovation and boosting the economy. Satellite technology is also pivotal in industry advancements, including agriculture and oil, fueling the region’s growth.