Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Safaricom Ethiopia has expanded its 4G network to Tepi, Aksum, Adwa, and Geja, bringing faster and more reliable mobile connectivity to more communities. The move strengthens digital access for residents and businesses, supporting communication, economic activity, and Ethiopia’s broader digital transformation ambitions.
Iraq is rapidly reshaping its telecom landscape through local interconnection and strategic fibre investments. With the launch of IRAQ-IXP powered by DE-CIX, domestic traffic is now exchanged locally, reducing latency and cost. Combined with new international routes, Iraq is positioning itself as a future regional connectivity hub.
Ooredoo Qatar has introduced an enterprise-grade eSIM solution for IoT devices, enabling remote activation, multi-network roaming, and global scalability across 600 networks. The platform simplifies device management, enhances security through GSMA-aligned standards, and supports large-scale deployments across sectors including logistics, healthcare, utilities, and smart cities.
Omantel has upgraded its mobile network to 5G Standalone, enabling advanced services such as Voice over 5G, enterprise network slicing, RedCap IoT, and ultra-low latency applications. The seamless transition strengthens Oman’s digital infrastructure and positions the operator to support next-generation consumer and industrial use cases.
Sama X has secured regulatory approval to deliver SpaceX’s Starlink satellite broadband across Bahrain. Using low-Earth-orbit technology, the company will provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity on land and at sea for enterprises and public sector users, supporting Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and expanding nationwide digital access.
Oman Data Park and ZainTECH have formed a strategic alliance to deliver compliant, locally hosted cybersecurity services across Oman. By combining in-country infrastructure with regional expertise, the partnership strengthens digital trust, supports government and enterprise resilience, and builds a secure foundation for Oman’s accelerating digital transformation.
Omantel has completed a major network upgrade enabling full 5G Standalone readiness without disrupting customers. The move unlocks advanced services such as Voice over 5G, ultra-low latency applications, and large-scale IoT, strengthening Oman’s digital foundation and positioning Omantel to support next-generation innovation across consumers and industries.
BTCL has upgraded all broadband packages with up to five times higher speeds at unchanged prices, responding to market pressure after Starlink’s entry. The move aligns public-sector services with private ISPs, improves affordability, and expands access to high-speed internet for households, students, and institutions nationwide.
Qatar Airways has become the first airline to deploy Starlink Wi-Fi on Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, expanding its fleet-wide rollout of free, high-speed inflight internet. With nearly 120 widebody aircraft connected, the airline now accounts for almost half of global Starlink airline users.
Qatar’s communications regulator has opened a consultation on updating radio spectrum fees, retaining its formula-based pricing while introducing refinements for terrestrial, satellite, and emerging direct-to-device services. The proposal aims to align fees with global best practices and support efficient spectrum use.