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 device production rose to over 10 million units in 2025, driven by increased local manufacturing and foreign investment. The ICT sector continues to deliver strong growth, job creation, and export expansion, while Egypt advances in digital governance, 5G deployment, and emerging technologies to support its broader digital transformation agenda.
Aamir Ibrahim warns that dollar-linked 5G spectrum pricing will delay rollout and increase costs, urging the government to price spectrum in rupees. The telecom industry argues that pragmatic auction design, similar to the PIA privatisation model, is essential to accelerate connectivity, avoid GDP losses, and support Pakistan’s long-term digital growth.
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.