Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) in Afghanistan has mandated that mobile phone importers secure licenses from the Afghanistan Telecom Regulatory Authority (ATRA). This new regulation aims to prevent the import of counterfeit phones and ensure proper registration of IMEI numbers to safeguard citizens’ devices and streamline procedures.
Liferay has partnered with PwC Middle East to enhance digital experiences for businesses in the region. This collaboration merges Liferay’s digital experience platform technology with PwC’s advisory expertise, aiming to create tailored solutions that improve customer engagement and drive growth across various digital touchpoints.
A new study shows that nearly 348 million people in the Arab world use the internet, with 228 million active social media users. TikTok is the most popular social media app in the region, particularly in the Gulf, while Facebook and YouTube lead in North Africa and Egypt, respectively.
Omani startup Sirius has developed an AI-powered device to aid communication for the deaf and mute. The device, featuring smart glasses, a smartwatch, and a digital app, won a silver medal at the Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions. It has attracted international investor interest and is set for large-scale production.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will visit Saudi Arabia on October 29-30 to discuss energy transition, digital transformation, and trade facilitation. His meetings aim to strengthen India-Saudi Arabia relations and explore opportunities in agriculture, energy, and technology. Goyal will also attend the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh.
Hutch Sri Lanka, in collaboration with Ceylon Waste Management, has introduced e-waste collection stations at its flagship store and brand shops. Customers can recycle old mobile phones and batteries in exchange for rewards, promoting responsible disposal and reducing electronic waste’s environmental impact.
NetApp names Saeed Al-Zahrani General Manager for Saudi Arabia, driving data infrastructure growth and supporting the Kingdom’s digital and AI transformation.
Meta unveiled AI tools and pledged support for Pakistan’s AI capacity building. Pakistan’s IT minister reaffirmed digital transformation priorities, emphasizing youth skills and cashless economy goals. Both agreed on expanding cooperation in AI adoption and digital innovation.
Egypt’s Minister of Communications, Dr. Amr Talaat, strengthened ICT cooperation with Italian companies in Rome to boost Egypt’s offshoring sector. Key talks with Sparkle, Intesa Sanpaolo, and AlmavivA support Egypt’s Digital Egypt Strategy aiming for $9 billion in digital exports by 2026.
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has launched free Wi-Fi at 21 bus and 22 marine transport stations in partnership with e&, enhancing connectivity for commuters. This initiative is part of Dubai’s digital transformation strategy, aiming to improve passenger experience and support the city’s vision to become the world’s smartest and happiest city. The service will be regularly evaluated for expansion and quality improvements.