Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Spekter Games raised $5 million in pre-seed funding to develop Web3-enhanced mobile and social games blending deep gameplay with blockchain incentives. Its first game, Spekter Agency, is testing on Telegram, with plans to expand onto traditional app stores.
Tawasul Transport and Mbank launched AE Coin, a UAE-dirham pegged stablecoin, enabling digital payments for Abu Dhabi taxi fares via the AEC Wallet app. The initiative supports the UAE’s smart mobility and digital government goals, with plans to broaden adoption across the country.
Fuze partners with Mamun to deliver Sharia-compliant trade finance solutions using USDT stablecoins, bridging digital asset infrastructure with private credit markets and addressing MENA’s $250bn trade credit gap.
Binance Academy partners with Pakistan’s Ministry of IT to launch a blockchain education program, aiming to train 300 educators and reach 80,000 students across 20 universities by 2026. The initiative supports Pakistan’s digital transformation and prepares a skilled workforce for the global blockchain ecosystem.
Binance Academy and Pakistan MoITT partner to train 300 educators and 80,000 students in blockchain by 2026, strengthening Pakistan’s Web3 talent pipeline and digital economy.
Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. has become the first publicly traded company in the GCC to acquire Bitcoin as a treasury asset, partnering with 10X Capital to expand its holdings. This move pioneers shari’a-compliant Bitcoin exposure, supports Bahrain’s regulatory framework, and offers GCC investors access to digital assets via the Bahrain Bourse.
BitOasis, the Middle Eastern arm of CoinDCX, has launched in Bahrain, marking a significant step in its expansion across the MENA region. With Bahrain’s favorable regulatory environment, the move positions BitOasis for future growth in the region, empowering individuals to engage in the digital economy and expanding crypto adoption.
Kuwait has launched a crackdown on cryptocurrency miners, accusing them of contributing to power shortages that cause blackouts. The operation has targeted homes in Al-Wafrah, with energy consumption in the area falling by 55%. Despite no laws specifically regulating mining, Kuwait aims to ease pressure on its power grid.
Abu Dhabi’s IHC, ADQ, and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) have unveiled a Dirham-backed stablecoin, pending regulatory approval by the UAE Central Bank. The stablecoin, running on the ADI blockchain, aims to enhance the UAE’s digital finance sector, offering secure, stable payment solutions for businesses and consumers.
Algeria is partnering with Lamina1 to build digital infrastructure centered on blockchain and immersive media. The project focuses on supporting creators, gaming, education, and IP ownership. With backing from the government, it aims to position Algeria as a tech hub in Africa, using Lamina1’s platform for content-driven digital economies.