Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Vodafone and HiWEB have formed a strategic partnership to modernize Iran’s broadband infrastructure, expand mobile and fixed services, and introduce Vodafone-supported IoT solutions. The alliance will also enhance service quality for Vodafone’s multinational customers while supporting HiWEB’s nationwide expansion goals.
beOnd is preparing aggressive global expansion with U.S. and Saudi operations, an upcoming inflight internet rollout, new AOCs, and a growing premium fleet. The airline plans 20 aircraft in Saudi Arabia, premium transcon routes in the U.S., and a future India AOC, supported by 32 secured aircraft through 2028.
Mobily celebrated its 20th anniversary by unveiling a 2030 strategy focused on AI integration, operational efficiency, and expanded digital infrastructure. With its new slogan “Ever Closer,” the company aims to deepen customer experience and strengthen its role in Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation.
Friendi Pay has fueled major growth in Oman’s digital payments ecosystem, delivering 600% higher payment volumes, 800% growth in remittances, stronger onboarding, and a user-centric, multilingual experience. Built on trust and regulatory alignment, it aims to power Oman’s Vision 2040 digital financial ambitions.
Zong 4G has inaugurated a Tier-III Certified Cloud Intelligent Computing Center in Islamabad, reinforcing Pakistan’s digital infrastructure with advanced cloud, AI, IoT, and cybersecurity capabilities. Led by the IT Minister, the launch marks a major investment in a future-ready digital economy and highlights Zong’s role as a key ICT enabler.
Mastercard’s 2026 MENA outlook forecasts 3.6% regional growth driven by investment, AI-led productivity gains, and resilient consumption. Qatar, Egypt, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia lead projections, while SME digitalization and shifting trade patterns reinforce diversification. Stable inflation and easing financial conditions support a broadly favorable economic environment.
Beyout’s subsidiary Real Estate House has received KAPP’s approval for its technical proposal to redevelop Kuwait’s Al Muthanna Complex, advancing a 15-year plan covering renovation, management, and maintenance on 17,183 sqm of state-owned land in Qibla.
EDOTCO Bangladesh and BDRCS signed an MoU to strengthen disaster preparedness by enhancing early warnings, ensuring site readiness and restoring critical communications during emergencies. The partnership includes solar-powered systems, safe-shelter support, community programmes, joint drills and volunteer training to improve national resilience across climate-vulnerable areas.
Vodafone Business has upgraded its MyVodafone Portal with an intuitive interface, real-time dashboards and enhanced management tools supporting mobility, fixed-line, PTT+ and IoT services. The improvements give companies more visibility, control and automation to speed up decisions, manage assets effectively and streamline digital service operations.
Batelco by Beyon has unveiled Ultra Home, a unified lineup of Mobile and Fiber Broadband plans offering high-speed connectivity across multiple tiers, including unlimited data options and extended coverage devices. Customers subscribing or upgrading via the Batelco App receive three months free. The launch reinforces Batelco’s focus on simplified, customer-centric digital experiences.