Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt’s mobile subscriptions approached 120 million in 2024, with a 10% increase in mobile internet use. The country began 5G deployment, issuing licenses to all operators and launching services like eSIM and Wi-Fi Calling to improve connectivity nationwide.
Pakistan has surpassed 200 million telecom subscribers, highlighting significant digital growth. PTA and major operators celebrate with free data offers and smartphone giveaways, while expanding Wi-Fi access at universities to boost digital inclusion.
Oman’s telecom sector grew with a 5.8% rise in postpaid subscriptions and a 121% surge in IoT connections by April 2025. Mobile subscriptions increased 12.3%, broadband and fiber optic usage expanded, while legacy services like ADSL and satellite declined significantly.
Oman’s telecom sector grew strongly in early 2025 with rising postpaid and IoT subscriptions, highlighting a shift toward digital technologies and smart services. While mobile broadband and fiber optic subscriptions increased, traditional fixed-line services like ADSL and satellite declined significantly.
Bangladesh has fallen six places to 82nd in Surfshark’s 2025 Digital Quality of Life Index, ranking 121 countries by digital wellbeing across five pillars. It performed best in internet quality at 65th, though speeds remain below global averages. Affordability challenges persist, with over four hours of work needed monthly for fixed broadband access. The country ranked 73rd in e-government and 85th in e-security, trailing India but ahead of Pakistan.
Sri Lanka’s e-commerce penetration is forecasted to grow steadily, driven by increased internet use and smartphone adoption. Bamagate.com’s new promotional campaign aims to capture market share through exclusive offers and brand collaborations, positioning itself as a key player in the country’s expanding digital retail sector.
Pakistan’s telecom sector reports strong revenue growth but a dip in tax contributions amid policy shifts. Broadband penetration and 4G coverage continue expanding, while 5G rollout and fiberisation plans advance. Cybersecurity ranks improve, supported by regulatory reforms and initiatives enhancing digital safety and network quality.
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PTA’s Q1 2025 QoS survey found some Pakistani mobile operators underperforming on voice service KPIs in specific regions. Operators using advanced network tech such as VoLTE showed better results. PTA has called for corrective actions to improve service quality.
Africa’s mobile landscape is booming with about 855 million cellular connections in 2025, often exceeding total population numbers due to multiple device ownership. Nigeria leads with 150 million connections, followed by South Africa and Egypt. This surge is driven by affordable smartphones, expanding 4G/5G networks, and mobile money innovations, positioning mobile technology as a key driver for communication, economic growth, and digital inclusion across the continent.