Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt has reduced its mobile phone import bill by 99.9% in early 2024, shifting towards local manufacturing with eight new factories. Government discussions are underway on potential import fees, with calls for grace periods and exemptions. This move aligns with Egypt’s plan to boost self-reliance and cut foreign currency reliance.
Bahrain’s UNDP and Derasat are collaborating on a National Human Development Report to enhance digital transformation. The report will provide a roadmap for bridging the digital divide, boosting cybersecurity, and integrating technology into public services to support inclusive growth aligned with Bahrain Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Helios Towers expects continued growth in 2025, driven by rising digital demand in Africa and the Middle East. The company projects adjusted EBITDA of $420 million for the year, while also reporting a 2% increase in third-quarter adjusted EBITDA to $105.7 million, with a growing number of tenants.
Ooredoo Qatar has launched upgraded postpaid plans, including new Shahry+ and Qatarna+ options, offering increased data allowances, flexibility, and exclusive benefits. The plans feature enhanced connectivity and services for both local and international use, aiming to enhance digital lifestyles for customers in Qatar.
Moroccan company Panafsat has partnered with Thales Alenia Space to develop a satellite communications system aimed at delivering very high-throughput services to 26 African countries. The initiative, signed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Morocco, aims to enhance digital connectivity and bridge the digital divide in rural areas.
The Kuwait Ministry of Health has instructed its sectors to provide the names and locations of departments for the upcoming implementation of a smart fingerprint attendance system. The system aims to enhance attendance tracking and will undergo a testing phase before full implementation, emphasizing consistent usage during official hours.
The Net5.5G Pioneer Award ceremony at UBBF 2024 in Istanbul honored achievements in Net5.5G innovation, highlighting advancements in 400GE, SRv6, and network slicing. The award celebrated carriers driving digital transformation in the Arab and African regions, setting a milestone for network development.
Etihad Airways and e& UAE have signed an MoU to integrate loyalty programs, enhance marketing, and promote Abu Dhabi as a premier destination. The collaboration aims to boost customer engagement, provide flexible benefits, and support small businesses, aligning with both companies’ long-term goals.
Telecom Egypt and Alcatel Submarine Networks have successfully landed the Africa-1 subsea cable system at the Ras Ghareb cable landing station. This initiative, part of a larger project to enhance connectivity across the Middle East and Africa, is expected to boost broadband capabilities and meet growing demand for high-speed communications.
The data center is built in cooperation with Omantel, enhancing Oman’s position as a key connectivity hub in the region