Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Es’hailSat has partnered with Mobi Egypt to provide Ku-band capacity on the Es’hail-1 satellite, enabling Mobi Egypt to migrate all its networks to Es’hailSat’s platform. The deal boosts satellite coverage and reliability across Egypt and MENA, leveraging Es’hailSat’s Tier-4 teleport and dual-satellite fleet to support mission-critical enterprise and government connectivity.
Es’hailSat has signed an agreement to provide Ku-band capacity on its Es’hail-1 satellite to Mobi Egypt, enabling the full migration of the company’s VSAT networks. The partnership boosts satellite connectivity across Egypt and MENA, supported by Es’hailSat’s Tier-4 teleport and high-powered satellites. The collaboration enhances reliability for mission-critical operations across multiple industries.
Ooredoo is investing $500 million to expand its global subsea cable network, boosting capacity, resilience, and international reach. The initiative will support new cable systems, landing stations, and upgrades to existing routes, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a digital hub. The investment targets rising enterprise demand for cloud, AI, 5G, and low-latency cross-border data connectivity.
A new GSMA study reveals that GCC countries lead the world in 5G-Advanced deployments, IoT adoption, and enterprise use of AI and digital technologies. MENA enterprises are investing nearly 10% of revenues in digital transformation, with Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia emerging as regional frontrunners. Generative AI, private 5G networks, and IoT are driving major efficiency gains across sectors, while telcos are becoming key transformation partners.
The SeaMeWe-6 subsea cable has landed in Karachi, marking a major boost to Pakistan’s international connectivity. Spanning 21,700 km and linking Asia to Europe, the system includes 17 landing points and is due to go live next year. Transworld Associates is the landing partner and says the investment supports Pakistan’s digital infrastructure ambitions.
Ethio Telecom and ZTE have rolled out 152 rural base stations, extending 2G–4G connectivity to over one million people in remote Ethiopian regions. Using modular, solar-powered technology, the project cuts construction costs and accelerates deployment while supporting services like Telebirr. The expansion strengthens national coverage as Ethio Telecom targets major revenue growth.
Saudi Arabia’s telecom sector posted revenues of SAR 80.46 billion and profits of SAR 14.46 billion in the first nine months of 2025, fuelled by demand for 5G, cloud services, and digital infrastructure. stc led the market with 80% of total profits, while Mobily and Zain KSA reported strong growth. Analysts expect continued momentum driven by Vision 2030 digital investments.
OPSWAT will demonstrate its OP/X Mobile Lab, MetaDefender Kiosk and new Unit 515 cybersecurity division at Black Hat MEA 2025, highlighting advanced protection for critical infrastructure across IT and OT environments. Through OPSWAT Academy training and AI-driven threat defenses, the company aims to support Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing digital economy and strengthen regional cyber resilience.
SUPARCO and NTC have signed an MoU to expand satellite-enabled communication and digital services across Pakistan, especially in remote regions. The agreement allows NTC to use geo-communication satellites for reliable connectivity while SUPARCO leverages NTC’s network for secure satellite imaging, cloud and geospatial services. The partnership strengthens national capabilities in telecom and space technology.
Aramco and Pasqal have deployed Saudi Arabia’s first quantum computer, powered by neutral-atom technology and installed in Dhahran. The system, backed by Wa’ed Ventures, will accelerate quantum research and industrial applications across energy and materials. The partnership includes training and research programs to build Saudi Arabia’s quantum talent and strengthen its technology ecosystem.