Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has urged faster progress on key digital infrastructure projects, including telecom tower rollout, SLUDI, and NIC issuance. Reviewing the work of TRCSL, DRP, and GovTech, he emphasised eliminating delays, scaling infrastructure, and strengthening governance as essential pillars for the 2026 Budget’s digital economy objectives and long-term transformation goals.
eSIM adoption is rising quickly in Saudi Arabia as travelers embrace Airalo’s seamless and affordable digital connectivity. The shift aligns with Vision 2030’s focus on mobility and innovation, enabling users to activate mobile networks instantly upon arrival abroad. With strong customer uptake and expanding global coverage, Airalo is helping position Saudi Arabia at the forefront of regional digital transformation.
Morocco has launched nationwide 5G with Inwi, Orange Maroc, and Maroc Telecom simultaneously activating ultra-fast networks. The rollout delivers low-latency connectivity, immersive digital services, and stronger regional digital hub positioning through major infrastructure investments.
Egypt’s ICT sector is emerging as a national growth engine, with 55 new outsourcing agreements set to create 70,000 jobs. Alongside major transport, investment, and tourism developments, the government is pushing reforms and international partnerships to fuel economic expansion and strengthen regional engagement.
Avanti is boosting satellite capacity in Southern Africa through additional Türksat 5B bandwidth, strengthening enterprise and community connectivity while supporting regional telecom growth.
Huawei and EternityX are bridging MEA and China’s digital economies through AI-driven advertising and data insights, helping Gulf brands capture fast-rising Chinese tourism, investment, and luxury spending through localized, performance-oriented campaigns.
Saudi Arabia’s Tarmeez Capital and Monsha’at have launched a $1 billion Shariah-compliant SME financing program to strengthen private-sector growth and support Vision 2030 goals through Sukuk-based funding.
AST SpaceMobile has delayed its satellite launches due to manufacturing and antenna challenges but remains commercially strong, with major deals involving Verizon, STC, and Vodafone. The company has $1B in contracts and may join Europe’s IRIS2 constellation.
Paramount and Bahrain’s National Cyber Security Centre have launched a joint MITRE D3FEND training initiative to enhance regional cyber defense skills through advanced, evidence-based frameworks and certifications, reinforcing Bahrain’s leadership in cybersecurity excellence across the GCC.
Turkcell has entered into a strategic cloud technology partnership with Google, committing $1 billion through 2032 to expand data centers and boost digital infrastructure. The collaboration focuses on enhancing cloud innovation, enterprise transformation, and Turkey’s digital competitiveness.