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.
Mindware has partnered with VMware to distribute VMware’s advanced IT solutions across Lebanon, Iraq, and Jordan, helping businesses accelerate their digital transformation. This collaboration will offer regional enterprises cutting-edge cloud, security, and infrastructure technologies to enhance scalability, agility, and security in their IT environments.
Algeria and Slovenia have initiated a space cooperation framework, with SkyLabs identified as a strategic partner for satellite technology. Bilateral meetings, led by the Slovenian Space Office, focused on collaboration in satellite constellations. The partnership will soon be formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost both countries’ space programs.
Airtel Nigeria has implemented a 50% tariff hike, affecting both data plans and call rates. This change, aimed at boosting infrastructure investment, has faced criticism from consumer groups and unions. The Cloud Network Foundation has urged the government to reassess the hike, citing economic hardships and its impact on low-income Nigerians.
Airtel has landed the SEA-ME-WE 6 submarine cable in Chennai, further strengthening its global network. This addition, alongside the previously landed cable in Mumbai, enhances Airtel’s capacity and connectivity, benefiting businesses in India. The cable will provide 220 TBPs of global capacity, aiding Digital India’s growing demand for data.
