Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Jordan ranked 49th globally in the Government AI Readiness Index 2024, improving from its 2023 position of 55th. The country outperformed Bahrain, Egypt, and Kuwait, reflecting its efforts in enhancing AI integration, including the AI-powered electricity load forecasting project aimed at boosting energy efficiency and accelerating renewable energy adoption.
Starlink has begun discussions with Moroccan authorities to deploy its satellites over the Sahara. Negotiations, which began in the summer of 2024, were further advanced during the Qatar-Africa Business Forum in November 2024. The deployment depends on approval from Morocco’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT).
stc has deployed Juniper 400G routers in its core network and data centres to enhance its 5G network capacity across 75 cities in Saudi Arabia. The upgrade increases bandwidth, reduces energy consumption, and simplifies operations, supporting stc’s goal of expanding 5G services while lowering operational costs and carbon footprint.
VEON and Huawei have partnered to deploy solar power across 1,000 Jazz sites in Pakistan. Using Huawei’s iSolar technology, the initiative will reduce energy costs by up to 96% and contribute to Jazz’s commitment to a net-zero carbon target by 2050. The project aims to offer a scalable model for future expansion.
Northstar Telecom has upgraded its Fiber Broadband services in Bahrain, increasing base speeds to 300 Mbps and offering up to 2 Gbps for higher-tier plans. This ensures businesses and individuals benefit from faster, more reliable internet, with no extra cost for existing customers.
Zain KSA has successfully completed a digital transformation with Netcracker Technology, implementing a cloud-based BSS/OSS system. The new platform enhances customer experiences, improves operational efficiencies, and supports expansion into fintech, IoT, and cloud computing. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s digital transformation goals and boosts 5G capabilities.
The Computer Association of Nepal Federation (CAN Federation) has developed a strategic plan to make Nepal a global IT hub. The plan focuses on policy reforms, technology development, research promotion, and international collaboration. It also includes initiatives like the Data Protection Act and foreign investment incentives to boost Nepal’s digital economy.
Jordan’s internet and social media usage have seen significant growth in 2025, with 10.7 million internet users and 6.45 million social media users. YouTube remains the most popular platform, while LinkedIn experienced strong growth. This digital expansion emphasizes the need for enhanced infrastructure to support the national digital economy.
Batelco has launched enhanced fibre speed plans in Bahrain, offering speeds from 300Mbps to 2Gbps. Existing customers will automatically benefit from speed upgrades, improving download speeds, streaming, and overall internet performance. This upgrade aligns with Batelco’s goal to boost Bahrain’s global speed rankings and improve national connectivity.
WISPAP has submitted recommendations to the PTA for modernizing Pakistan’s Local Loop Licensing Regime. The proposed changes include eliminating mandatory voice service requirements, introducing a broadband-only license, and promoting technology-neutral licensing to accelerate broadband expansion, innovation, and fair competition in the country’s telecom sector.