Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Oman has completed the phased shutdown of all 3G networks, reallocating frequencies to enhance 4G and 5G coverage to 99% and 90%, respectively. The transition improves service quality, supports IoT expansion, and delivers significant energy savings, positioning Oman as a leader in telecom modernization.
Nepal Telecom’s internet is disrupted due to a bandwidth provider issue, causing network strain as traffic is rerouted. The company is actively working on restoring normal speeds and apologizes for the inconvenience amid high user demand.
The ransomware attack on Ingram Micro disrupted global order fulfillment and customer-facing systems, affecting thousands of B2B clients. The incident underscores the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures as cyber threats evolve and AI advances rapidly, exposing critical vulnerabilities in many organizations.
Al-Futtaim Technologies and Johnson Controls have partnered to bring the OpenBlue smart building platform to the UAE, offering real-time analytics, energy optimization, and enhanced occupant experiences. This collaboration supports the GCC’s push for intelligent, sustainable infrastructure and positions both companies as leaders in the region’s smart city evolution.
Nokia and Saudi partners have successfully piloted a spectrum-sharing 5G Standalone indoor network using the 4.0–4.1 GHz band, enabling all operators to provide high-speed 5G coverage inside buildings through a single system. This innovation dramatically lowers costs, reduces carbon emissions, and accelerates 5G deployment across Saudi Arabia’s business and public venues.
Microsoft Qatar has appointed Ahmad El Dandachi as General Manager, succeeding Lana Khalaf who moves to lead the public sector for Microsoft Middle East and Africa. El Dandachi brings extensive regional leadership experience and will focus on accelerating Qatar’s digital transformation aligned with national strategies. Khalaf’s impactful tenure is marked by her advocacy for inclusive innovation and regional technology leadership.
Oman’s Royal Oman Police is deploying an AI-powered, smart traffic monitoring system to reduce accidents by influencing driver behavior and rigorously enforcing traffic laws. The system combines automated camera surveillance with human oversight, traffic points penalties, and data-driven accident analysis to enhance road safety nationwide.
Omantel and du have activated the Oman Emirates Gateway, a 275km fiber optic submarine cable linking Oman and the UAE. This high-capacity infrastructure enhances network speed, resilience, and connectivity, supporting regional digital transformation and attracting global technology players. The project is positioned as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation in the Gulf.
Nepal Telecom’s internet service is currently slowed due to problems with a key international bandwidth provider. Traffic rerouting has strained alternate links, disrupting connectivity since early July 8. The company is working to restore normal service soon and has apologized for the impact on users.
Kuwait’s new e-visa system streamlines entry for multiple visitor categories, enhancing the country’s appeal as a destination for tourism, business, and diplomacy. This digital innovation supports Kuwait’s ambitions as a regional economic and cultural hub and anticipates greater GCC travel cooperation.