Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Google Wallet is set to launch in Pakistan by January 2025, alongside Egypt and Venezuela, expanding Google’s digital payment ecosystem. The launch is expected to complement existing platforms like Easypaisa and JazzCash, driving competition in the market. New updates to the Wallet ecosystem are also expected to enhance user experience.
Over 1.6 million Moroccans cannot afford basic internet access, with the country ranking 105th globally in internet affordability. The report highlights significant regional disparities in access, showing that both men and women are equally affected. Morocco’s average monthly internet cost is $4.4, far below the US benchmark.
The Saudi Skills National Competition launched its mobile robotics challenge in Al-Ahsa, gathering 40 talented young men and women from across the Kingdom. Participants from six educational institutions are competing for a chance to represent Saudi Arabia in regional and international competitions, enhancing their skills in various technical fields.
stc Bahrain has partnered with Huawei to launch the fourth edition of its Technical Capacity Program, aimed at fostering digital innovation and talent development in Bahrain. The program provides training in key ICT sectors, including cybersecurity and AI, and supports the kingdom’s digital transformation by empowering its workforce.
Viettel High Tech has signed a $1 million deal with High Cloud Technologies to supply 5G systems in the Middle East. This partnership includes the provision of 4G and 5G base stations and cloud-based infrastructure. The goal is to improve telecom coverage, particularly in rural areas, and enhance regional development.
North Africa is experiencing a digital revolution, with technology driving innovation across sectors like fintech, healthcare, and education. Youth-led initiatives are championing change, while challenges such as digital divides and gender gaps remain. The region is advancing toward sustainable development through digital transformation, boosting equity and resilience.
Bahrain’s Taqyeem Committee reviewed the results of its 5th evaluation round, which assessed 64 service centres and 13 virtual service centres across 21 government entities. The meeting highlighted efforts in adopting digital transformation, innovation, and customer satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to improve government service delivery.
Vodafone Qatar has launched the Brovi 5G Mobile Wi-Fi Pro 5, combining cutting-edge 5G technology and Wi-Fi 6 Plus for ultra-fast connectivity. With download speeds up to 3.6 Gbps and Game Turbo 2.0 for optimized gaming, it supports multiple simultaneous connections and offers up to 10 hours of continuous use.
Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has launched a Master in Applied Artificial Intelligence (MAAI) degree aimed at developing AI practitioners. The program is designed for professionals, offering a mix of theory, practical projects, and industry experience to advance AI in government and industry, supporting the UAE’s AI strategy.
Algeria and South Africa’s space agencies, ASAL and SANSA, signed an MoU on December 6, 2024, to enhance cooperation in space science and technology. The agreement aims to develop joint projects, share expertise, and promote space technologies for peaceful purposes, strengthening bilateral ties in the space sector.