Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi leaders and Oracle executives highlighted the Kingdom’s AI ambitions at Oracle AI World Tour Riyadh, noting AI’s role in digital transformation under Vision 2030. With over $40 billion planned investment and strong data sovereignty focus, Saudi Arabia aims to become a global AI hub.
Pakistan will hold its 5G spectrum auction on March 10 to ease network congestion caused by limited spectrum. With 130 million broadband users operating on 274 MHz, the move aims to improve Internet speeds and support the country’s expanding digital economy and rising IT exports.
Qatar announced a $2 billion expansion of its Fund of Funds and new incentives for startups at Web Summit 2026, including 10-year residencies and compute credits. The move strengthens Qatar’s position as a global innovation hub attracting founders, investors, and technology leaders worldwide.
SkipCash raised $4 million in Series A funding to expand its Tap-to-Phone POS solution, enhance infrastructure, and enter GCC markets. Serving 6,000 clients, the Qatari fintech processed over QR1 billion in 2025 and aims to simplify digital payments for merchants and consumers.
Ooredoo Fintech partnered with Western Union to integrate global money transfer services into the Ooredoo Money app in Qatar. The move enhances cross-border remittance options, supports digital financial inclusion, and will expand to other regional markets, offering users more flexibility and choice in international payments.
Pakistan will host Indus AI Week 2026 from February 9–15 to showcase national AI potential under the Digital Pakistan vision. The event will unite policymakers, tech firms, academia, and startups to promote real-world AI adoption across governance, industry, and innovation while attracting global investment.
Oman launched a four-month Leadership Forum under the Artaqaa programme to prepare senior officials for digital transformation aligned with Vision 2040. Organised by MTCIT and partners, the initiative focuses on emerging technologies, coordination, and policy readiness to strengthen institutional capability across government.
Muscat will host the Fiber Connect Council MENA Conference on February 2–3, highlighting fibre’s role in AI-ready infrastructure, 5G, and data centres. The event aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and offers investors and telecom entrepreneurs opportunities in hyperscale data, open-access fibre, and smart connectivity.
Oman is using satellite technology to monitor pipelines, support oil rigs, and detect new oil and mineral reserves. Deals with Omantel, Astranis, and Airbus support connectivity and exploration. The country has attracted billions into its space program to diversify an economy still heavily reliant on oil.
Nepal Telecom invited applications for 80 permanent roles across 12 job categories from Junior Technician to Deputy Manager. Candidates can apply online by February 19, with late submissions accepted until February 26 for double fees, as the operator strengthens its technical and managerial workforce.