Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
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.
stc Bahrain and Huawei have introduced new digital solutions focused on strengthening SMB digital transformation, including Huawei’s eKit services and updated Ideahub smart screen promotions. Launched at a joint event, the initiative aims to equip businesses with accessible tools for efficiency and growth while reinforcing stc Bahrain’s role as a national digital enabler.
Morocco has achieved full smartphone penetration in urban households, with rural adoption rising quickly, according to ANRT’s latest ICT survey. Internet access and device ownership have grown sharply nationwide, driven partly by the pandemic. While digital connectivity improves access to education and services, rising online use among children is triggering increasing parental concerns and household tensions.
Salam and AFR-IX Telecom confirmed steady progress on the 8,700-km Medusa Submarine Cable System during Connected World 2025. As Saudi Arabia’s gateway partner, Salam is enabling backhaul and interconnection for the project, which will link 11 countries and deliver 480 Tbps capacity. The collaboration strengthens Saudi Arabia’s role as a Mediterranean-Middle East digital hub.