Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Ooredoo Algeria has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first operator to provide 5G coverage across all 58 provinces. This nationwide rollout facilitates Algeria’s digital transformation, offering high-speed internet and low latency to millions. Existing 4G users can easily activate the service via the app without changing SIM cards.
Zong has successfully acquired 5G spectrum, doubling down on its commitment to a “Digital Pakistan.” The company will leverage its 17,000+ sites and new AI-ready cloud platforms to drive industrial modernization and high-speed consumer connectivity. The rollout will also see immediate improvements to 4G quality across its 44 million data users.
Omantel achieved a group net profit of OMR 371 million in 2025 (+87.7% YoY) and revenue of OMR 3.41 billion (+11.4%). Growth was driven by a 56.7% surge in ICT services and Zain Group contributions. The company declared a 55% dividend, supported by 5G expansion and a regulatory reduction in mobile service royalties.
Amber IT is deploying 500 Wi-Fi zones across Bangladesh in 2026, offering free access to its subscribers and low-cost coupons for others. Partnering with small businesses like tea stalls for hosting, the project aims to support students and freelancers while enhancing digital inclusion in both urban and rural public spaces.
Algeria is undergoing scheduled maintenance on the critical SMW4 submarine cable on March 10-11, 2026. Aimed at the power supply system, the work may cause temporary internet disruptions between Annaba and Palermo. Authorities have activated alternative routes to ensure service continuity and emphasize the intervention’s role in long-term network reliability.
VEON’s Jazz secured 190 MHz in Pakistan’s 5G auction, the largest share among bidders, for approximately $239.5 million. The auction tripled the nation’s available spectrum, enabling Jazz to enhance 4G quality and launch 5G services in major cities by late 2026, supporting a transition to AI-driven digital services for 100 million users.
LTT and ZTE signed a landmark MoU at MWC26 to modernize Libya’s telecommunications and expand 4G/5G coverage. The partnership targets digital financial services, e-commerce, and high-performance hardware like FWA to bridge the digital divide. This strategic move aims to underpin Libya’s economic reconstruction through enhanced connectivity and a diversified digital ecosystem.
Pakistan raised $507 million in its inaugural 5G auction, with Jazz, Ufone, and Zong acquiring 480 MHz of spectrum. The move doubles national capacity, heralding faster 4G within months and 5G rollouts by late 2026. Notably, Pakistan also became the first Asian nation to eliminate right-of-way charges for fiber.
Tech Oman has launched the TechWoman initiative to support and connect women in the technology field through free workshops, networking events, and leadership programs aimed at both Omani and expatriate professionals.
Egypt has introduced Wa3i.net, a national Arabic-language cybersecurity platform targeting 98 million users, to provide educational resources and training for families and youth in response to a surge in regional cybercrime and phishing attacks.