Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Etihad Salam Telecom and EdgeNext have partnered at LEAP 2025 to enhance telecommunications in Saudi Arabia. The collaboration includes co-locating servers, procuring high-speed internet services, and facilitating a peering connection with the Saudi Internet Exchange, aiming to improve content delivery and network efficiency in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Elon Musk expressed excitement about launching Starlink in Bangladesh following a meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Prof. Muhammad Yunus. The discussions focused on how Starlink could improve connectivity for youth, rural areas, and underserved communities. Musk also accepted an invitation to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch.
Batelco by Beyon has launched ‘One Plan’ in Bahrain, allowing customers to combine up to five postpaid mobile lines and one fibre Internet line into a single plan with one unified bill. This first-of-its-kind product aims to simplify mobile and home connectivity, providing exceptional value for money.
stc Group and Huawei have launched the region’s first AI-driven 5G network software to enhance connectivity for the gaming and esports industries. The Intelligent Personalized Experience (IPE) 5G-Advanced solution optimizes key network metrics like bandwidth, delay, and jitter in real-time, providing high-quality, uninterrupted gaming experiences for users worldwide.
Tunisia’s major telecom operators, Orange Tunisia, Ooredoo Tunisia, and Tunisie Telecom, have all launched 5G services following the receipt of their licenses. The services promise faster speeds, enhanced connectivity, and greater coverage, contributing to the country’s digital transformation and future telecom infrastructure.
Zain Bahrain has implemented 5G-capable streetlight solutions in Durrat Al Bahrain, in collaboration with LSS Technologies. This innovation enhances coverage and speed, contributing to the development of smart city solutions. It aligns with Zain’s Sustainability Strategy and supports SDGs related to innovation and sustainable cities.
Ncell has launched its VoWiFi service, allowing users to make HD voice calls over WiFi at no extra charge. The service is compatible with iPhone 8 and later models, with plans for broader device support. It benefits users in areas with weak cellular signals, offering clear audio and seamless connectivity.
stc Group and Ooredoo Oman have signed an agreement to launch the Saudi-Omani Network Infrastructure Corridor (SONIC), aimed at boosting regional connectivity and digital transformation. The initiative supports Saudi Vision 2030, linking the Red Sea to the Arabian Sea, with a focus on high-capacity solutions and economic growth.
Ooredoo Qatar has partnered with Nokia to modernize its core network, integrating AI, machine learning, and 5G standalone capabilities. The deal will enhance network performance, support ultra-low latency services, and enable real-time industrial automation and high-quality gaming experiences. Nokia’s solutions also optimize efficiency, capacity, and energy consumption.
Pakistan has established 43 Software Technology Parks (STPs) across the country, housing over 350 IT firms and employing 18,000 professionals. The government is developing major IT parks in Karachi and Islamabad to further strengthen the ICT sector, creating thousands of jobs and boosting IT exports. A digital transformation strategy is underway.