Onda, a South Korean AI-driven hospitality tech company, has partnered with UAE-based Seed Group to expand into the Middle East. The company aims to complete SaaS localization testing by mid-2025 and strengthen its presence through marketing strategies and partnerships, showcasing its digital transformation technologies at regional industry events.
The Paktika Directorate of Telecommunications and Information Technology has installed 35 new telecommunication towers, enhancing coverage across the province. This project, worth 440 million Afghanis, resolves 90% of regional telecommunication issues. Future plans include expanding services in the province and preparing sites for 3G services by 1404 solar year.
Pakistan’s IT sector faces massive economic losses from Internet disruptions, totaling $1.62 billion in 2024. Experts urge the government to accelerate 5G rollout, improve Internet speeds, and address VPN restrictions. These efforts are critical to strengthening Pakistan’s digital economy and mitigating the impact on its freelance workforce.
Logar Province will soon launch the Fiber to the Home (FTTH) Internet project in Pul-e-Alam city, covering 11,781 meters across six districts. Afghan Telecom will implement the project, aiming to provide high-quality internet to households. The initiative will first focus on the provincial center before expanding.
Ericsson has announced a new organizational structure for its Middle East and Africa operations, creating the Customer Unit Saudi Arabia, led by Håkan Cervell. This move aims to enhance market responsiveness and accountability, supporting Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation and connectivity goals, while fostering local empowerment and decision-making.
Oman is set to launch a Net Zero Centre to support its 2050 zero neutrality goal. The Centre will focus on green hydrogen production, carbon certificate trading, and energy efficiency. New green hydrogen projects and a liquid hydrogen corridor with the Netherlands are also part of Oman’s sustainable energy efforts.
Kuwait has resumed issuing electronic visas for tourists from 53 eligible countries after improving its visa system. The new portal allows applicants to apply online, providing essential details and documents. The platform will eventually offer additional visa categories, including business, family, and government visas, in the future.
The African telecom tower market is set to grow significantly, with the number of installed towers expected to rise from 208.31 thousand in 2024 to 261.21 thousand by 2029. Key drivers include increased mobile workforce demand, rural connectivity efforts, and the rollout of 4G and 5G technologies.
Derasat, Bahrain’s Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies, continued to strengthen regional and global partnerships throughout 2024. The centre advanced its strategic initiatives, including collaborations with international institutions, the launch of the “Green Houses of Worship” programme, and contributions to Bahrain’s digital transformation efforts.
Diriyah Company has successfully deployed SAP Private Cloud Solutions to enhance its operations and service delivery within the 14 sq km Diriyah development project. The integration of SAP tools ensures streamlined processes, data-driven decision-making, and a flexible, scalable infrastructure, positioning Diriyah for future growth and global recognition.
