Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Sri Lanka aims for nationwide internet access in secondary schools by 2026, deploying smartboards and building a national education management system with support from the air force.
Telenor’s Pakistan exit is delayed by regulatory hurdles, threatening digital progress and 5G rollout; the group focuses on stronger markets while urging faster approval for its PTCL sale.
Vodafone Oman launched Makani Internet for Business, a flexible 5G-powered broadband service enabling enterprises to access high-speed connectivity without fibre, supporting operational resilience nationwide.
A fire at Cairo’s Ramses Central Office led Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat to reroute network traffic to backup centers, ensuring service continuity amid repairs and investigations.
Nokia, CST, ACES NH, Mobily, and Zain Saudi completed the first pilot of 5G Standalone indoor coverage using sharable 4.0–4.1 GHz spectrum and active sharing, cutting costs by 60% and enabling all operators to deliver gigabit-class 5G inside buildings efficiently.
Batelco launched Voya, Bahrain’s first global data roaming eSIM service available to all telecom users worldwide. It offers fast activation, affordable plans from BD 2 ($5.26), seamless connectivity in 140+ destinations, multi-network flexibility, and free travel insurance for a limited period.
Qatar now enjoys nationwide access to Starlink satellite internet, enhancing connectivity for consumers, businesses, and aviation passengers, and positioning the country as a Middle Eastern digital pioneer.
Oman has completed the phased shutdown of all 3G networks, reallocating frequencies to enhance 4G and 5G coverage to 99% and 90%, respectively. The transition improves service quality, supports IoT expansion, and delivers significant energy savings, positioning Oman as a leader in telecom modernization.
Nokia and Saudi partners have successfully piloted a spectrum-sharing 5G Standalone indoor network using the 4.0–4.1 GHz band, enabling all operators to provide high-speed 5G coverage inside buildings through a single system. This innovation dramatically lowers costs, reduces carbon emissions, and accelerates 5G deployment across Saudi Arabia’s business and public venues.
Omantel and du have activated the Oman Emirates Gateway, a 275km fiber optic submarine cable linking Oman and the UAE. This high-capacity infrastructure enhances network speed, resilience, and connectivity, supporting regional digital transformation and attracting global technology players. The project is positioned as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation in the Gulf.