Bahrain’s mobile phone market grew significantly in Q1 2024, with 34,000 new subscriptions, increasing the total to 2.44 million, a 13.8% rise from Q1 2023. The mobile phone penetration rate rose from 136% to 155%, driven by the widespread use of smartphones. Prepaid subscriptions grew by 7.7%, reaching 1.55 million.
IBM has completed an energy-efficient data center for Telecom Egypt, the largest fixed-line telecom provider in the Middle East. The project, part of IBM’s “Big Green” initiative, aims to enhance Telecom Egypt’s capacity while improving energy efficiency and server performance, supporting Egypt’s growing telecommunications demands.
Sparkle and Tunisie Telecom have partnered to provide International IP Transit services from Sicily to Milan. This agreement enhances Tunisia’s connectivity to Europe with a high-performance, low-latency route, meeting the growing demand for advanced internet services and digital content, and strengthening the historical partnership between the two companies.
Saudi Arabia will invest SR4.2 billion ($1.2 billion) to enhance its digital content industry through the newly established Digital Content Council. The council will fund 36 initiatives to develop skills and create jobs in video gaming, video production, and digital advertising, promoting the Kingdom’s growing digital content sector.
Qatar topped Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index for mobile broadband speeds in February, March, and April, with Samsung S24 models reaching 971 Mbps. Al Rayyan was the fastest mobile city globally. Ooredoo’s investments in technology and infrastructure have solidified Qatar’s leadership in mobile internet speeds, supporting Qatar’s National Vision 2030.
MERP Systems has partnered with Omantel to drive digital transformation in Oman using Microsoft AI tools. The collaboration aims to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer service, and develop new digital products. The agreement also includes modernizing HR systems, creating an AI-enhanced digital store, and training Omani professionals in advanced AI skills.
Nepal’s Chaudhary Group (CG) has partnered with China’s Huawei Technologies in a $100 million deal to launch 4G services. Aiming to transform Nepal’s mobile market, CG plans an initial $250 million investment, focusing on data services. Despite U.S. concerns, CG is confident in the collaboration and future expansion.
Orange Jordan launched the third season of its AI Incubator, in partnership with ISSF and PSUT. The program received 108 applications, shortlisted to 7 finalists. The AI Incubator aims to support AI-based startups and students, enhancing their skills, securing investments, and fostering socio-economic development in Jordan.
Huawei Cloud has launched its Cairo Region, serving 28 African countries with innovative cloud services. It also introduced a new Arabic language model for automatic speech recognition with 96% accuracy. These initiatives aim to support digital transformation and enhance services across Africa, including Egypt, Ethiopia, and Algeria.
Algérie Télécom has revised its summer working hours for commercial agencies from June 1 to September 30, 2024. Northern regions will operate from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, while southern regions will have split hours to mitigate heat. Customer service points will follow regional schedules, ensuring continuous service.
