Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Global telecom operators are recording higher carbon emissions in Bangladesh than in developed markets, driven by fossil-fuel-based power grids and diesel backup systems. While Bangladesh delivers strong revenues for firms like Telenor and Robi Axiata, activists warn weak climate enforcement allows multinationals to shift emissions burdens to developing economies.
Pakistan’s telecom industry is urging the government to adopt a pragmatic spectrum auction policy that reflects economic realities and prioritises long-term digital growth. With limited spectrum constraining connectivity, operators warn that misaligned pricing could slow investment, cost billions in GDP, and undermine 5G, financial inclusion, and digital transformation goals.
Huawei Cloud’s Saudi Arabia Partner Day highlighted the strength and diversity of its local ecosystem and underscored the company’s partner-first approach. By combining strategic investment, enablement programs, and collaborative innovation, Huawei Cloud is positioning its partners to play a central role in delivering scalable cloud solutions and supporting Saudi Arabia’s long-term digital transformation goals.
Egypt has approved the creation of a unified digital platform to simplify company incorporation, operations, licensing, and liquidation. Led by GAFI-owned Misr Investment for Development, the initiative will centralize services on Egypt Digital Platform, reducing approval times and improving ease of doing business for investors.
Mobily has launched the Ever Closer brand platform to mark its 20th anniversary, repositioning itself as a human-centric TMT brand. Developed with FP7McCann Riyadh, the platform emphasizes emotional connection, shared experiences, and customer relationships as Mobily enters its next phase of digital transformation.
Dubai’s Film Development Committee has outlined strategic priorities to grow and sustain the emirate’s film sector. Focus areas include talent development, streamlined production processes, and stronger public-private collaboration, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a competitive global hub for film and creative industries.
Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank have signed $730m in financing to upgrade the national power grid and accelerate state-owned enterprise reforms. The investments aim to improve energy security, enable hydropower integration, and strengthen governance and efficiency across key public institutions.
SalamAir will launch the first non-stop GCC flights to Sudan with a new Muscat–Port Sudan route starting January 2026. Operating three times weekly, the service boosts Oman–Africa connectivity, supports trade and expatriate travel, and aligns with Oman Vision 2040 goals.
Iraq’s rapid digital expansion has connected millions of young people, but high youth unemployment highlights the challenge of turning access into jobs. By investing in digital skills, inclusive participation, and stronger public-private collaboration, Iraq can convert connectivity into sustainable economic opportunity and long-term growth.
Morocco has launched a fully digital passenger journey at Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport ahead of AFCON 2025, deploying self-service and biometric technologies to manage record traffic volumes. Part of ONDA’s Décollage 2025 strategy, the initiative aims to modernise airport operations, improve efficiency, and enhance the passenger experience nationwide.