Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The IMF report outlines the GCC nations’ ambitious digital transformation plans, aiming to boost the digital economy’s share of GDP and enhance government service digitalization. Targets include significant growth in digital economy contributions, with the UAE aiming for full government digitalization by 2025 and other nations setting similar goals.
Elon Musk expressed excitement about launching Starlink in Bangladesh following a meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Prof. Muhammad Yunus. The discussions focused on how Starlink could improve connectivity for youth, rural areas, and underserved communities. Musk also accepted an invitation to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch.
Pakistan’s government is spearheading a smart city transformation in Islamabad with fiber connectivity upgrades, AI-driven education reforms, and healthcare digitalization. Large-scale IT training programs are planned to prepare youth for the evolving digital economy.
Zong won the Best Digital Campaign (TikTok) award at the Pakistan Digital Awards 2025, recognized for its impactful promotion of the My Zong App using TikTok and Google UAC. The campaign’s success was also highlighted globally in a TikTok case study.
Ooredoo has launched new Maktabi packages, offering an all-in-one business communication solution for small businesses in Oman. Starting at OMR 29.5 per month, these packages include high-speed internet, mobile and fixed-line communication, security solutions, Microsoft 365, TallyPrime, and 24/7 smart CCTV surveillance to support SMEs and SoHos in achieving their business goals.
Royal Oman Police urges parents to actively supervise children’s online activities using parental controls, promoting safe internet use. The advisory highlights content selection, education on online risks, and vigilance as key to protecting children in today’s digital world.
UNITAR’s regional workshop in Rabat united aviation professionals to advance airport modernization using AI, cybersecurity, and sustainable technologies, supporting Morocco’s role in global aviation ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The training strengthens capacities across Africa and beyond, fostering collaboration and innovation for future-ready airports.
Nepal delisted from Ookla’s mobile broadband speed index due to inconsistent speed data but remains in the fixed broadband list with improving fiber speeds.
Kale Logistics Solutions and Novel Muscat have been contracted by Oman’s Ministry of Transport to develop the National Port Community System (NPCS), which will integrate operations across Oman’s ports, airports, and free zones. The initiative aims to enhance trade and logistics efficiency, strengthening Oman’s position as a regional hub.
Technocity’s senior leadership attends Computex 2025 to explore AI, edge computing, and gaming innovations, strengthening partnerships to accelerate AI adoption and digital infrastructure growth across Sri Lanka.