Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, spoke at the Bab Al Bahrain Forum 2025, highlighting the country’s role in innovation, human capital, and sustainable economic growth. The forum brought together key international figures to discuss global and regional economic challenges.
Yango Group has partnered with ITHCA Group to launch a digital ecosystem in Oman, enhancing the country’s digital transformation. The acquisition of Otaxi will improve service offerings in mobility, delivery, and rentals. This collaboration supports Oman’s Vision 2040 and aims to drive growth through AI-powered, locally-tailored solutions.
Bangladesh has launched the Platform for Resilient Supply Chains, a collaborative initiative involving government and industry stakeholders. This platform aims to foster policy discussions, enhance local job creation, improve working conditions, and boost economic growth. It supports Bangladesh’s transition to a more inclusive and resilient economy as it nears LDC graduation.
Saudi Arabia’s transportation network set new records during Ramadan, with Haramain High-Speed Railway carrying 1.2 million passengers, a 21% increase from last year. Public transport, ride-hailing, and logistics sectors all saw significant growth. The TGA emphasized the success of coordinated efforts in supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.
Saudi Arabia’s transportation sector experienced record demand during Ramadan, with the Haramain High-Speed Railway carrying over 1.2 million passengers. Public transport buses, ride-hailing, car rentals, and logistics also saw significant growth. These achievements reflect the success of regulatory efforts and the country’s ongoing commitment to Vision 2030’s goals.
Emirates has launched Emirates Courier Express, a revolutionary end-to-end delivery solution designed for faster, direct global deliveries. With an average delivery time of under 48 hours, the service operates across seven markets, offering flexible service levels. It leverages Emirates’ vast network for faster, more efficient package transportation.
Kia has launched the all-new Sonet compact SUV in Sri Lanka, marking the first of 12 new SUV models to be introduced in the country. The Sonet is equipped with advanced technology, a turbocharged engine, and comprehensive safety features, offering both style and practicality for modern urban drivers.
Genie Business and Kangaroo Cabs have introduced Sri Lanka’s first tap-to-pay taxi-hailing service, enabling passengers to make seamless payments using their Visa or Mastercard on the driver’s NFC-enabled phone. This partnership improves payment convenience, transaction security, and operational efficiency for both drivers and passengers.
Oman’s transport and logistics sector is projected to contribute RO14bn to the economy by 2040, becoming the second-largest economic contributor after hydrocarbons. With a focus on infrastructure, sustainability, and digital transformation, the sector will create up to 300,000 jobs and unlock investment opportunities, supporting Oman’s Vision 2040 goals.
Türksat and ULAK Haberleşme have signed an agreement to deploy a 5G-supported smart transportation infrastructure in Istanbul. The project will cover a 40-kilometer corridor, enhancing vehicle and transportation communication with Vehicle-to-Vehicle, Vehicle-to-Infrastructure, and Vehicle-to-Network connectivity, advancing Türkiye’s digital transformation and leadership in smart transportation.