Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
A report from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) reveals that 42% of telecom sites across Pakistan operate without generators, causing widespread power outages and internet slowdowns. The report also highlights the theft of critical equipment and attacks on telecom sites, further disrupting services during power loadshedding and increasing internet issues.
Morocco’s Panafsat and Thales Alenia Space have signed an MoU to develop a satellite communications system to provide high-speed internet services to 26 African countries, helping bridge the digital divide and support economic growth. This initiative is part of broader digitalization efforts in Morocco and Africa.
The Egyptian Space Agency, in partnership with the African Space Agency, inaugurated the 2025 Basic Space Technology Training Grant. Hosted at the Space Academy in Cairo, the program welcomed 21 engineers and specialists from 20 African nations. It offers hands-on satellite technology training to advance Africa’s space capabilities.
Pasifik Holding, a Turkish conglomerate, is focusing on expanding its global presence through investments in defense technologies and port operations. The company also plans to list 20% of its shares on Borsa Istanbul in the first quarter of 2025. Pasifik has interests in real estate, logistics, mining, and energy.
Trasna has integrated its recent acquisitions, Workz and IoTerop, into a single entity, offering the first all-in-one solution for secure SIM and device management. This strategic move strengthens Trasna’s position in the IoT market, providing a comprehensive service to address security and operational challenges in IoT connectivity.
MBZ-SAT, the UAE’s most advanced satellite, is set to launch tonight from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. Developed by Emirati engineers at MBRSC, the satellite boasts cutting-edge Earth observation capabilities, offering rapid data delivery and precise imaging for applications like environmental monitoring and disaster relief.
The Algerian Stock Exchange experienced historic growth in 2024, with market capitalization reaching 518 billion dinars. The anticipated listing of telecom giant Djezzy in 2025 is expected to further boost the exchange’s profile. Ongoing modernization efforts aim to attract more investors and enhance market accessibility for SMEs.
Ooredoo has signed 10 memoranda of cooperation with 40 Omani SMEs to support their growth and sustainability. The partnership includes offering communication packages, training programs, and telecommunication services to improve business efficiency and provide additional revenue opportunities through reselling Ooredoo services.
Zain KSA has secured a license from the Digital Government Authority to provide digital authentication services, supporting Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation under Vision 2030. The services will enhance electronic transactions, ensuring security and compliance with regulations, and will be available to both government and private sector clients.
The UAE’s tech sector is on track for significant growth in 2025, driven by advancements in AI, cloud computing, and blockchain. With substantial investments in digital infrastructure and supportive policies, the UAE continues to attract emerging tech companies, positioning itself as a leading global hub for innovation and digital transformation.