Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt has signed an MoU with ZTE to launch local telecommunications equipment manufacturing and establish 5G training labs. This partnership will enhance Egypt’s tech industry, boost export capabilities in the MENA region, and train 1,200 ICT professionals over three years.
Barq, a Saudi fintech leader, has partnered with Mastercard to enhance payment solutions in the Kingdom. Leveraging Mastercard Gateway, the collaboration aims to provide businesses and consumers with secure, efficient, and innovative payment systems, boosting fraud prevention and processing efficiency for Barq’s customers.
Saudi Arabia’s tech sector is projected to boost operating profits by SR15 billion by 2028 with the adoption of generative AI (GenAI). The Kingdom is aligning its Vision 2030 goals with GenAI-driven innovations, benefiting sectors like telecom, media, and entertainment, enhancing growth, and solidifying its position as a tech hub.
The 4th Digital Technology Forum, under the patronage of Eng. Abdullah Amer Al-Swaha, will take place on October 9th in Riyadh. Focusing on “Synergizing for a Sustainable Digital Future,” the event will explore tech investments, regulatory collaboration, and digital infrastructure, bringing together leaders and innovators to shape the future of technology.
Zarrar Hasham Khan, a telecom expert and former PTCL executive, has been appointed as the Federal Secretary of IT and Telecommunications in Pakistan. Selected through an open market process, Khan brings over 20 years of experience and will play a key role in advancing Pakistan’s technology and telecom sectors.
The UAE’s Telecommunications Authority has unveiled its 6G Roadmap, aiming for a 2030 rollout. This groundbreaking technology will support innovations like AI, remote surgeries, and digital transmission of human senses. A committee is established to drive research and set global standards for 6G.
Abu Dhabi-based ERP provider Hulexo has secured seed investment from Arzan VC, fueling expansion into Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. The investment will help Hulexo grow to 300 retail locations by 2025, offering smarter solutions for small and medium-sized businesses in the region.
Egypt and China signed $1.1 billion worth of agreements to boost tech and telecom sectors. This includes new factories, fiber optic production, and AI research centers. The partnerships aim to enhance Egypt’s tech infrastructure, with investments focused on local production, R&D, and training programs.
Orange Jordan’s BIG program launched its 11th season, guiding entrepreneurs through pitching and investment strategies. With insights from Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP), participants are learning to attract investments and move from idea to practical implementation, reinforcing Jordan’s startup ecosystem.
Abdullah Hakeem, a 25-year-old Saudi innovator and KFUPM graduate, is shaping Saudi Arabia’s tech industry. From developing a popular WhatsApp bot to joining the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), Hakeem is committed to advancing AI and digital transformation, contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.