Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Jazz organized a five-day 5G training program at the Jazz-NUST 5G Innovation Lab for officials from the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB). The training covered essential 5G technologies and network optimization, supporting Pakistan’s digital transformation. The initiative strengthens collaboration between industry, academia, and government to accelerate 5G adoption.
Teletalk plans a Tk 50 crore 4G network expansion to provide mobile coverage to Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar. The project will install 33 towers in key areas, improving connectivity for 350,000 mobile users. Approval is pending from the Ministry of Telecommunications and the Ministry of Home Affairs for SIM registration.
Tunisie Telecom has launched its nationwide 5G network, offering faster speeds and improved services across the country. The rollout includes a strategic partnership to expand international connectivity with a new submarine cable, part of Tunisia’s digital transformation strategy aimed at strengthening its position as a hub for innovation.
Eutelsat OneWeb has applied for fast-track approval from India’s Department of Telecommunications to launch two earth station gateways connected to its LEO satellites. The initiative aims to provide satellite broadband services across South Asia, enhancing India’s role as a satellite communications hub and supporting disaster recovery and backhaul connectivity.
Dialog Axiata reported strong growth in FY 2024, with core revenue rising 10% YTD to Rs151.3 billion and EBITDA increasing by 8%. The company posted a net profit of Rs12.4 billion despite a 38% YTD drop, mainly due to prior forex gains. Investments in broadband and infrastructure reached Rs30.3 billion.
Ooredoo has appointed Asma Al Thani as its Brand Ambassador, aligning with the company’s vision of pushing boundaries and connecting communities. Asma, aiming to be the first Arab to conquer the Explorers Grand Slam and all 14 of the world’s 8,000-metre peaks, will collaborate with Ooredoo on digital initiatives.
Pakistan is enhancing its digital infrastructure with 26.5 Tbps of international connectivity through five submarine cable projects. Additionally, proposals are underway to expand satellite-based internet services, and the government is working on improving network security to optimize internet performance and reduce slowdowns caused by VPNs and DDoS attacks.
Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, highlighted the nation’s advanced cybersecurity system that predicts and mitigates over 50,000 daily cyberattacks. He also discussed the country’s focus on defending critical sectors and its efforts to counter misinformation and deepfake threats through exercises at IDEX and NAVDEX 2025.
JODDB will showcase its advanced defense solutions at IDEX 2025, including the upgraded Al-Wahsh Al-Kaser armored vehicle, 40mm smoke grenade launcher, counter-drone systems, and cybersecurity initiatives. The exhibition will also feature JODDB’s test and evaluation services, ammunition manufacturing, and cutting-edge military equipment, reinforcing its role in defense innovation.
The Middle East smartphone market experienced strong growth in 2024, with a 14% increase in shipments driven by rising demand for premium devices. However, growth slowed in Q4, reflecting macroeconomic challenges. Looking ahead, brands will face challenges as consumer behavior shifts towards longer replacement cycles and cautious spending.