Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Nepal Telecom’s internet service is currently slowed due to problems with a key international bandwidth provider. Traffic rerouting has strained alternate links, disrupting connectivity since early July 8. The company is working to restore normal service soon and has apologized for the impact on users.
Afghanistan’s Zabul province has seen a remarkable transformation in telecommunication services following years of conflict and underdevelopment. The installation of new network towers across the province has eased communication hardships, allowing residents to connect from home for the first time. Provincial officials continue efforts to expand coverage to all areas, reflecting broader national reconstruction goals in telecommunications and infrastructure.
Arkan Solutions, in partnership with BT, has launched PSTN integration for DHL Express in Kuwait, Qatar, and Jordan, extending DHL’s Genesys Cloud CX platform regional deployment. The managed service ensures regulatory compliance and high-quality voice connectivity, advancing DHL’s Middle East digital transformation.
Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission has upgraded over 1,253 telecom towers and deployed AI-driven congestion prediction tools to support millions of pilgrims during the Ashura pilgrimage in Karbala. Network capacity has increased by nearly 500%, with full 4G coverage and 5G-ready infrastructure.
Ooredoo Algeria has been licensed to launch and operate a 5G network after ranking second in a competitive tender by Algeria’s regulatory authority. The network promises to accelerate digital transformation and economic development, leveraging Ooredoo Group’s global 5G expertise to enhance connectivity across sectors nationwide.
Zain has launched its 5G Advanced network with nationwide coverage in Kuwait, positioning the country among the first globally to commercialize this technology. The network supports smart city and IoT applications, advancing Kuwait’s digital economy in line with government directives and CITRA’s regulatory approval.
Turkcell, Beko, and Ericsson finalized the EU-supported VERGE project, demonstrating Turkey’s first remote industrial design using 5G and XR technologies. The project highlights 5G’s role in enabling real-time collaboration, network slicing, and AI-powered network management, accelerating product development and digital transformation.
Alibaba Cloud is expanding its Southeast Asia infrastructure with a third Malaysian data centre and a second Philippine facility set for late 2025. Complemented by an AI Competency Centre in Singapore, this buildout supports rising regional demand amid a global $52.7 billion cloud network investment.
Huawei and Zain KSA have launched the Riyadh Antenna Platform, featuring a cylindrical design that cuts wind resistance and site costs, with advanced remote beam steering for enhanced network coverage. This innovation supports Saudi Arabia’s expanded spectrum allocations and addresses deployment challenges in urban and high-wind environments.
Sri Lanka has launched Starlink satellite internet, providing nationwide coverage and monthly plans for homes and businesses. This expansion follows regulatory changes and positions Sri Lanka to improve connectivity, especially in remote regions, as part of bridging the digital divide.