Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt and Jordan have launched the Coral Bridge submarine cable, the first direct digital link between the two nations in 25 years. The 15 km high-capacity system across the Gulf of Aqaba strengthens their positions as regional digital hubs and boosts connectivity for AI, cloud, and international data flows.
TMC Pvt. Ltd. and SAP Pakistan hosted the “Digital HR, AI-Driven Experience” conference in Karachi, highlighting the urgent need for AI-powered HR transformation. With only 34% of organizations digitized, the event urged Pakistan to embrace data-driven HR to upskill talent, boost retention, and build a resilient workforce for the future.
Ethio Telecom and Huawei have deployed North Africa’s first GigaAAU FDD tri-band Massive MIMO site, boosting 4G traffic by 70% and user speeds by 68%. The solution integrates three bands into one unit, offers dynamic beamforming, and ensures energy savings, advancing Ethiopia’s digital transformation.
Starlink is close to a deal with Saudia Airlines to provide in-flight Wi-Fi across 140 aircraft, expanding its Gulf presence and competing with Neo Space Group, Viasat, and Inmarsat. The move follows talks with Emirates and Gulf Air, and a Qatar Airways rollout.
Pakistan has waived ROW charges for IT and fiber installations in Islamabad, aiming to cut costs for providers and speed up broadband rollout. Officials say the move supports affordable Internet expansion, though shutdowns and platform censorship continue to challenge digital access.
Nepal Telecom is close to awarding Huawei its billing system contract, despite prior warnings over monopoly risks, data security, and conflicts of interest. Critics say revised tender terms favor Huawei’s older hardware, potentially giving it near-total control of the operator’s core infrastructure.
The University of Rabat and Cisco have launched a local Incubation Centre to advance AI and cybersecurity. The partnership includes the Cisco Networking Academy, offering ICT and advanced tech training as part of Cisco’s global Country Digital Acceleration program to support Morocco’s digital transformation.
ZTE and Zong 4G have launched Pakistan’s first high-power 8T8R UBR and DIA antenna solution, boosting capacity by up to 83% at peak hours, cutting RRU requirements by 67%, and preparing the network for 5G while enabling cost-efficient deployment in constrained environments.
Telecom Egypt’s H1 2025 revenue rose 33% to EGP 50.6B, driven by data and international calls, with EBITDA up 43% and net profit up 50%. The company launched 5G, improved cash flow, and strengthened its debt position while committing to further investment and sustainable growth.
e& UAE has launched a flexible, end-to-end managed monitoring-as-a-service platform, offering enterprises real-time infrastructure visibility to reduce risk, maintain continuity, and improve operational control. The modular service can be tailored to industry needs through strategic partnerships.