Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Touch has boosted Lebanon’s mobile network capacity ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s visit, deploying temporary stations, enhancing coverage at major sites, and opening customer service centers during the event. Upgrades include expanded voice and data services, improved connectivity in key locations, and a special $1 package to support attendees and travelers.
e& UAE has completed the world’s first IP+DWDM dual-800GE trial, validating high-capacity, low-latency transmission across EMIX’s core network. The solution improves cost efficiency and integrates AI-powered traffic prediction and energy optimisation, supporting the UAE’s digitalisation goals and laying the foundation for future AI-driven WAN networks and next-generation connectivity.
Oman has partnered with Airbus to design and launch its first national communications satellite, OmanSat-1, with Space Communications Technologies serving as the national operator. The Ka-band high-throughput satellite will deliver over 120 Gbps capacity and wide regional coverage, strengthening Oman’s sovereign digital infrastructure. Full operations are slated for 2029, supporting Oman Vision 2040’s goals for a knowledge-driven economy.
Es’hailSat has signed an agreement to provide Ku-band capacity on its Es’hail-1 satellite to Mobi Egypt, enabling the full migration of the company’s VSAT networks. The partnership boosts satellite connectivity across Egypt and MENA, supported by Es’hailSat’s Tier-4 teleport and high-powered satellites. The collaboration enhances reliability for mission-critical operations across multiple industries.
Ooredoo is investing $500 million to expand its global subsea cable network, boosting capacity, resilience, and international reach. The initiative will support new cable systems, landing stations, and upgrades to existing routes, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a digital hub. The investment targets rising enterprise demand for cloud, AI, 5G, and low-latency cross-border data connectivity.
A new GSMA study reveals that GCC countries lead the world in 5G-Advanced deployments, IoT adoption, and enterprise use of AI and digital technologies. MENA enterprises are investing nearly 10% of revenues in digital transformation, with Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia emerging as regional frontrunners. Generative AI, private 5G networks, and IoT are driving major efficiency gains across sectors, while telcos are becoming key transformation partners.
The SeaMeWe-6 subsea cable has landed in Karachi, marking a major boost to Pakistan’s international connectivity. Spanning 21,700 km and linking Asia to Europe, the system includes 17 landing points and is due to go live next year. Transworld Associates is the landing partner and says the investment supports Pakistan’s digital infrastructure ambitions.
Ethio Telecom and ZTE have rolled out 152 rural base stations, extending 2G–4G connectivity to over one million people in remote Ethiopian regions. Using modular, solar-powered technology, the project cuts construction costs and accelerates deployment while supporting services like Telebirr. The expansion strengthens national coverage as Ethio Telecom targets major revenue growth.
SUPARCO and NTC have signed an MoU to expand satellite-enabled communication and digital services across Pakistan, especially in remote regions. The agreement allows NTC to use geo-communication satellites for reliable connectivity while SUPARCO leverages NTC’s network for secure satellite imaging, cloud and geospatial services. The partnership strengthens national capabilities in telecom and space technology.
Morocco has approved a refreshed roadmap and budget to accelerate its Digital Morocco 2030 strategy, supporting e-government upgrades, stronger digital services, and major telecom investments. With $1.1 billion in state funding and $8 billion from operators for 5G rollout, the country aims to reach 85% 5G coverage and enter the UN top-50 digital rankings by 2030.