Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Starlink has made its satellite internet service free for users in Iran amid protests and state-imposed internet blackouts. The move allows terminals to operate without payment, bypassing censorship and reinforcing Starlink’s growing role as a geopolitical tool enabling uncensored connectivity in authoritarian environments.
Nepal Telecom is migrating user data to a new SMSC system on January 13–14, which may temporarily disrupt SMS services overnight. The upgrade is intended to improve reliability, speed, and security of text messaging across the network, strengthening the core infrastructure that handles message storage and delivery nationwide.
Orange Jordan has expanded its fibre broadband network to Tafila and new areas in Aqaba, extending coverage to more than 1.1 million homes nationwide. The move supports growing demand for high-speed internet and follows a major core network upgrade, strengthening access to digital services across Jordan.
Safaricom Ethiopia has expanded its 4G network to Tepi, Aksum, Adwa, and Geja, bringing faster and more reliable mobile connectivity to more communities. The move strengthens digital access for residents and businesses, supporting communication, economic activity, and Ethiopia’s broader digital transformation ambitions.
Iraq is rapidly reshaping its telecom landscape through local interconnection and strategic fibre investments. With the launch of IRAQ-IXP powered by DE-CIX, domestic traffic is now exchanged locally, reducing latency and cost. Combined with new international routes, Iraq is positioning itself as a future regional connectivity hub.
Ooredoo Qatar has introduced an enterprise-grade eSIM solution for IoT devices, enabling remote activation, multi-network roaming, and global scalability across 600 networks. The platform simplifies device management, enhances security through GSMA-aligned standards, and supports large-scale deployments across sectors including logistics, healthcare, utilities, and smart cities.
Omantel has upgraded its mobile network to 5G Standalone, enabling advanced services such as Voice over 5G, enterprise network slicing, RedCap IoT, and ultra-low latency applications. The seamless transition strengthens Oman’s digital infrastructure and positions the operator to support next-generation consumer and industrial use cases.
Sama X has secured regulatory approval to deliver SpaceX’s Starlink satellite broadband across Bahrain. Using low-Earth-orbit technology, the company will provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity on land and at sea for enterprises and public sector users, supporting Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and expanding nationwide digital access.
Oman Data Park and ZainTECH have formed a strategic alliance to deliver compliant, locally hosted cybersecurity services across Oman. By combining in-country infrastructure with regional expertise, the partnership strengthens digital trust, supports government and enterprise resilience, and builds a secure foundation for Oman’s accelerating digital transformation.
Omantel has completed a major network upgrade enabling full 5G Standalone readiness without disrupting customers. The move unlocks advanced services such as Voice over 5G, ultra-low latency applications, and large-scale IoT, strengthening Oman’s digital foundation and positioning Omantel to support next-generation innovation across consumers and industries.