Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Revolutionizing E-Commerce Logistics by Empowering SMBs with Multi-Courier Shipping Solutions, Seamless Last-Mile Operations, and Enhanced Financial Growth Opportunities MENA, 27…
LINX and center3 have upgraded Riyadh’s Internet Exchange with expanded 100GE ports and new 400GE connectivity, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s role as a digital hub. The enhancements support Vision 2030 goals, while center3’s $10B expansion plan targets 1GW of data centre capacity by 2030.
PTA’s Q1 2025 QoS survey found some Pakistani mobile operators underperforming on voice service KPIs in specific regions. Operators using advanced network tech such as VoLTE showed better results. PTA has called for corrective actions to improve service quality.
Benefit fintech roadmap focuses on AI partnerships, SME payment solutions, and cross-border interoperability to accelerate Bahrain’s digital financial ecosystem.
Morocco has launched the e-Police digital portal, enabling citizens to access various police services online, starting December 20. The platform allows requests for services like criminal record certificates and national identity card appointments, offering a streamlined, secure, and efficient process for public services. It marks the first phase of digitizing police services.
Qi has launched its groundbreaking 3rd Generation App, SuperQi, in Iraq, integrating digital banking and a super app. The app, developed with Ant International and powered by Alipay+, offers diverse services such as payments, transfers, and loans. SuperQi aims to drive financial inclusion and modernize Iraq’s economy.
iSchool, the leading K-12 AI and coding education platform in the MENA region, has acquired SEEDS, the EdTech division of Algoriza, to strengthen its presence in Saudi Arabia and expand corporate education programs. This strategic move allows iSchool to accelerate AI and coding upskilling for employees’ children as a valuable HR benefit, while deepening bilingual curriculum development and broadening partnerships across public and private schools. With Saudi Arabia’s youthful population and growing focus on future-ready skills, the acquisition positions iSchool as a key player in bridging education and innovation in the region.
Abu Dhabi hosted a workshop on sustainable investment in digital transformation, organized by the League of Arab States and the Arab Federation for Digital Economy. The event focused on digital investment, fostering private partnerships, and supporting digital development in the Arab region. The 16th meeting of the Arab Committee for Sustainable Development was also held alongside.
Aramco’s venture arm, Wa’ed Ventures, has invested in UK-based AI cloud start-up Ori. This investment, aimed at establishing a subsidiary in Riyadh, underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on advancing AI. Ori, which supplies AI infrastructure and uses Nvidia’s H200 chips, has also been backed by Telefonica and NextEra Energy.
Morocco, Kenya, and Nigeria have partnered to launch the African Artificial Intelligence Council in 2025, aiming to promote AI for the public good. The initiative, part of Smart Africa’s digital agenda, will drive innovation, accelerate Africa’s digital economy, and address key challenges to AI adoption across the continent.