Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan has accelerated its digital reform agenda, aiming for nationwide 100 Mbps speeds, major fibre expansion, and leadership in AI and cloud services. The country is pushing digital inclusion, women’s participation, and strong governance reforms, while calling for more investment to ensure universal and affordable connectivity.
Oman’s new MOFN service with Ciena boosts data speeds up to 1.6 Tbps per wavelength, enhancing regional connectivity for AI and cloud infrastructure. The end-to-end managed service strengthens Oman’s status as a strategic digital hub linking Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe, while delivering secure, scalable bandwidth for hyperscalers and enterprise expansion.
Qatar Airways now has over half its wide-body fleet equipped with free gate-to-gate Starlink internet, enabling industry-leading high-speed connectivity across 200 daily flights as rollout accelerates ahead of schedule.
Oman is entering a critical phase of cybersecurity progress, with industry leaders stressing that the nation’s future resilience depends on consistent implementation of its strong strategic foundations. Speaking at the Cysec Oman Forum, specialists highlighted that while national frameworks, regulations, and the Cyber Defence Centre have advanced governance, gaps remain between planning and execution across key industries.
Oman’s TRA introduces a fast and efficient number portability system to boost competition, enhance customer experience, and align telecom services with global standards.
Morocco’s nationwide digital infrastructure push is accelerating, with 5G services now live in around 60 cities just one week after launch by Maroc Telecom, Orange Morocco, and Inwi. Minister of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni confirmed that fiber optic connectivity is now mandatory in all new construction projects under a joint ministerial decree adopted in September.
Makhazen’s first full quarter post-rebranding shows strong core profitability growth, boosted by Kuwait-based infrastructure investments and operational resilience, while the Agility Global stake continues to contribute to earnings through associate performance.
Bangladesh Submarine Cables posted a 42.1% rise in Q1 FY26 profit to Tk 619.10 million as bandwidth demand and core business revenue grew. EPS, cash flow, and NAV per share all improved, reflecting strong fundamentals as the country’s sole international submarine cable operator benefits from rising internet usage nationwide significantly.
The Taliban reports rising mobile internet usage and expanded coverage, but recent network shutdowns and high connectivity costs undermine progress as Afghanistan remains one of the least-developed telecom markets worldwide.
Saudi Arabia has appointed MYCRANE as the Digital Innovation Partner for the Heavy Equipment Connect Forum & Expo 2026, a major new industrial event aligned with Vision 2030. Scheduled for February 2026, the expo will bring global machinery leaders together while MYCRANE implements digital matchmaking and engagement tools to improve efficiency, connectivity, and procurement in the heavy equipment sector.