Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Nepal’s smartphone imports surged 21% to nearly 2 million units worth over Rs. 32 billion in the first 11 months of fiscal year 2024/25. China remains the largest supplier, followed by India and other countries, contributing to increased government revenue and greater market availability.
Egypt’s NTI has launched a four-month Telecom Network Security training track under the Digital Egypt Youth – HireReady initiative, equipping recent engineering and computing graduates with practical cybersecurity skills for legacy and next-gen telecom systems. Applications close July 4, with training starting July 19, 2025.
Pakistan’s Ministry of IT and Telecom confirms ongoing dialogue with Microsoft amid reports of the company exiting after 25 years. The ministry frames this as a strategic shift toward a partner-led cloud model rather than a market exit, while former Microsoft Pakistan manager highlights the exit’s significance and underlying economic challenges.
Microsoft is closing its subsidiary in Pakistan, shifting to support customers through partners and regional offices. The decision follows business model changes and reflects challenges in Pakistan’s tech investment climate, despite the country’s large population and government initiatives to boost the IT sector.
Syncrow has launched SyncOS, a cloud-based IoT platform designed to enhance smart building management across the GCC. Featuring real-time control, predictive maintenance, and wellness-focused automation, SyncOS supports regional sustainability goals and offers flexible integration for diverse environments.
The Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB) is reducing the minimum fixed internet package price from Tk 700 to Tk 500 starting July 1. ISPs currently offer speeds averaging 10 Mbps, with plans to raise minimum speeds to 20 Mbps if government fees like the Social Obligation Fund are lifted. ISPAB also committed to collecting the 5% VAT on bills to be deposited into the national treasury, urging customers to use licensed ISPs and pay VAT accordingly.
From generous early incentives to becoming a globally connected accelerator, Hub71 has transformed Abu Dhabi’s tech landscape, fostering innovation across digital assets, AI, and climate tech. With strong regulatory support and investment, it is poised to join the world’s leading tech ecosystems.
Brookfield’s majority acquisition of Oman Tower Company signals a new era for Omani telecom infrastructure, combining global investment expertise with local operations to drive growth, sustainability, and alignment with national development goals in the digital economy.
UNITAR’s regional workshop in Rabat united aviation professionals to advance airport modernization using AI, cybersecurity, and sustainable technologies, supporting Morocco’s role in global aviation ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The training strengthens capacities across Africa and beyond, fostering collaboration and innovation for future-ready airports.
Jahez Application and Kuwait Innovation Center have launched Kuwait’s first Food Innovation Hackathon, inviting youth and creative thinkers to develop AI-driven solutions for food delivery challenges. The multi-phase program includes workshops, mentorship, and cash prizes, supporting Kuwait’s Vision 2035 goals by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the food tech sector.