Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia launches a new digital service enabling pilgrims to activate eSIMs instantly via app and biometric verification, ensuring seamless connectivity upon arrival. This innovation enhances the Hajj and Umrah experience by eliminating traditional SIM card activation delays and aligns with the Kingdom’s commitment to digital modernization.
Morocco hosted the Smart City Morocco RoadShow & Expo 2025/2030 from May 21 to 23, promoting sustainable urban innovation across Casablanca, Rabat, and Benguerir. The event aligns with King Mohammed VI’s vision and prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2030, emphasizing resilient, connected, and inclusive smart cities.
Zain Kuwait and Rakuten Symphony have signed an MoU to pilot Kuwait’s first cloud-native Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN), deploying 5G Standalone sites with Rakuten’s virtualized Open RAN software. The initiative aims to boost network agility, efficiency, and scalability, marking a key step in Zain’s regional digital innovation.
Zain KSA’s AI-powered 5G network, fully deployed across holy sites for Hajj 1446H, enhances connectivity, emergency response, and live streaming to improve pilgrims’ experience. The initiative supports Saudi Vision 2030 and positions the Kingdom as a global digital innovation hub.
STM Sanchar applies for Nepal’s unified telecom license, joining UTL and Smart Cell in the regulatory process. The unified license allows operators to offer fixed line, GSM, and international services under one framework. NTA verifies licensing conditions amid leadership challenges resolved by new government orders.
Morocco plans to launch 5G in six 2030 World Cup host cities, aiming for 25% national coverage by 2026 and 70% by 2030. Huawei leads the tender race alongside Western firms. With speeds 100x faster than 4G, 5G will enhance Morocco’s already high internet penetration of 90.7%.
Zong participated in ITW 2025 to bolster global telecom partnerships, highlighting Pakistan’s resilient network and exclusive Hajj connectivity offerings. Strategic talks focused on voice, roaming, A2P SMS, and ICT services, reinforcing Zong’s commitment to advancing digital innovation and expanding international collaboration.
PESCO has been ordered by the Competition Appellate Tribunal to restore equal Right of Way access to internet and cable providers and to create a fair, uniform ROW policy. The ruling addresses discriminatory charges and abuse of dominance, reinforcing non-discriminatory broadband infrastructure deployment.
Orbitworks unveils Altair, a 10-satellite AI-enabled Earth observation constellation featuring multi-sensor payloads and onboard edge computing. The UAE’s investment positions it as a regional satellite manufacturing hub, targeting rapid real-time data for critical applications amid a booming global space market.
Abu Dhabi Investment Office and e& enterprise join forces to accelerate AI-powered Industry 4.0 adoption and sustainable manufacturing. Through workshops, digital tools, tailored assessments, and research, the partnership supports Abu Dhabi’s goal to build a resilient, innovative industrial sector aligned with its 2031 Industrial Strategy.