Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bangladesh’s mobile subscribers increased 0.52% to 187.61 million in May, led by Grameenphone. Internet users rose 0.87% to 132 million, driven by mobile internet growth, reversing a year-long decline.
Jordan’s telecommunications sector shows robust growth in broadband subscriptions, mobile data consumption, and 5G adoption in early 2025. Fixed voice subscriptions dip slightly, but call volumes and SMS usage surge, while fixed broadband and leased line services expand steadily.
Jordan’s telecom sector saw steady growth in broadband and 5G adoption in early 2025, with mobile broadband subscriptions and data usage rising significantly. The surge in SMS traffic and leased line services, alongside increasing fiber-optic broadband, highlights expanding connectivity across the Kingdom.
The UAE leads global mobile shopping, with 67% using smartphones for recent purchases, outpacing Saudi Arabia and Singapore. Driven by convenience and security, mobile retail grew 23% since 2022. Millennials lead adoption, Gen X follows, and rising cross-channel shopping solidifies the UAE’s role in digital commerce innovation.
Pakistan’s telecom sector has witnessed substantial increases in data usage, broadband subscriptions, and network infrastructure, indicating a vibrant and expanding digital ecosystem. However, challenges remain as revenues have declined, reflecting a complex market dynamic in a rapidly evolving industry.
Algeria has improved its ICT Development Index ranking from 89th to 74th globally in 2025, surpassing averages for the world, the Arab region, Africa, and upper-middle-income countries. This progress underscores the country’s commitment to expanding universal and meaningful internet connectivity as part of its national digital vision.
Oman’s fiber optic residential coverage has risen by 64%, significantly boosting high-speed internet access nationwide, as reported by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, supporting the country’s digital development ambitions.
Pakistan assembled 12.5 million mobile phones locally in the first five months of 2025, significantly outpacing imports which declined by over 16%. PTA recorded 10,000 telecom complaints in May with a 98% resolution rate. Smartphones make up 67% of devices on Pakistan’s networks, highlighting strong local production and ongoing sector improvements.
Algeria climbed 15 ranks to 74th place in the ITU’s 2025 ICT Development Index, exceeding global, regional, and income group averages. This progress underscores Algeria’s commitment to expanding universal and meaningful internet connectivity nationwide, supporting broader digital inclusion in line with presidential vision.
Pakistan’s mobile phone imports declined significantly by over 16% in the first eleven months of FY25, with a steep drop recorded in May 2025. However, overall merchandise exports showed positive growth of 5.15%, while total imports increased by 7.5%, indicating broader trade dynamics beyond the mobile sector.