In 2024, Zain Kuwait continued its leadership in telecom and digital innovation, supporting sports, empowering youth, and promoting sustainability. The company launched the Zain Great Idea accelerator, achieved significant 5G breakthroughs, and spearheaded campaigns like Zain Alshuhoor Ramadan, all contributing to Kuwait’s growth and community well-being.
Space42, formed from Al Yah (YahSat) and Bayanat AI, launched its Thuraya 4 satellite to replace older units. The satellite supports a $799 million revenue backlog, with plans for Direct-to-Device services. The UAE government has committed $800 million over 15 years to support Space42’s ambitions in global non-terrestrial communications.
SAP has launched its Business Technology Platform (BTP) on Google Cloud in Saudi Arabia for regulated customers. The collaboration supports digital transformation within government and critical infrastructure sectors, providing secure cloud solutions that align with Saudi Vision 2030. The initiative enhances performance and scalability while ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed met with delegations from e& UAE and the Ministry of Justice to discuss collaboration in digital infrastructure and judicial services. The discussions focused on enhancing Sharjah’s telecommunications sector, supporting e&’s advancements in AI and fibre-optic networks, and modernizing the judicial system in the UAE.
The Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers Association has demanded the reversal of the recent tax hike on telecommunications and internet services. The new taxes, including an increase in VAT and supplementary duty on mobile phones and broadband internet, are expected to raise costs for consumers, prompting public protest.
The UAE’s technology sector is set for record growth in 2025, driven by advancements in digital innovation and emerging technologies. With strong government support and investments in digital infrastructure, the country is becoming a global hub for tech companies. Growth is expected to continue through 2029, with a steady market expansion.
Starlink usage in Iran has surpassed 100,000 users, with significant growth driven by demand for unrestricted internet access amid government censorship. Despite its high costs, Starlink has become essential for bypassing internet restrictions, especially after the 2022 protests. The service highlights the ongoing struggle for digital freedom in Iran.
iQ Networks has signed Iraq’s first dark fibre IRU agreement with Gulf Bridge International, marking a significant milestone in the country’s telecom infrastructure. The deal coincides with the Silk Route Transit network surpassing 1 Tbps in capacity, positioning Iraq as a crucial telecom hub linking Europe and Asia.
Nepal Telecom has launched 4G service in Karmarong, Mugu district, bringing high-speed data and VoLTE for the first time to this remote region. The service spans multiple areas and trekking routes, benefiting local businesses and enhancing digital inclusion in the area. This marks a significant upgrade in telecommunications.
The interim government in Bangladesh plans to raise the supplementary duty on mobile phone services from 20% to 23%. This increase will raise taxes on recharges, leaving users with less usable balance. The move has sparked concerns about its impact on internet usage and the country’s ICT progress.
