Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Dialog Axiata’s Vesak Data Dansala offers 1GB free mobile data to 21,000+ users via QR codes, blending tradition with digital innovation in Sri Lanka’s biggest cultural festival.
Telecom operators in Pakistan have set out key conditions for 5G rollout, including local currency payments, reduced taxes, and adequate spectrum in the 2600 MHz band. They are also pushing for a phased “4G for all” approach and a formal industry recognition to support sustainable growth and investment in the telecom sector.
Telecom Egypt has preliminarily approved Helios’ binding offer to acquire a 75–80% stake in its Regional Data Hub subsidiary, valuing RDH at USD 230–260 million. Telecom Egypt will retain a minority stake, with EFG Hermes as financial advisor and ADSERO & A&O Shearman providing legal counsel.
Disney has partnered with Miral to develop a tech-centric theme park in Abu Dhabi, located on Yas Island. This marks Disney’s seventh theme park resort but with a licensing agreement rather than direct ownership. The park will blend Disney’s legacy with Abu Dhabi’s cultural essence and cutting-edge technology.
NayaOne has launched Saudi Arabia’s first fully locally hosted sandbox-as-a-service platform, enabling banks and fintechs to accelerate product testing and launch while addressing data sovereignty. Supported by AstroLabs and the UK government, the platform aligns with Vision 2030 and Saudi Arabia’s booming fintech market.
EdVentures and the Mastercard Foundation have launched a five-year EdTech Fellowship in Egypt to transform the African EdTech sector. The program supports 36 startups with training, mentorship, and funding, aiming to enhance digital innovation and youth empowerment.
At the 19th Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum, Policy Adviser Fayez Ahmed Tayeb emphasized the country’s lack of content delivery network (CDN) and deep packet inspection (DPI) servers, hindering internet sovereignty. The event highlighted the importance of server localization, internet rights, and the need for cybersecurity guidelines over laws.
Vodafone Qatar and the Khwarizmi Artificial Intelligence Center (KAIC) have partnered to accelerate AI-driven innovation in telecom and enterprise services. The collaboration will deliver advanced digital solutions, enhance customer experiences, and support Qatar’s digital transformation and ambition to become a regional innovation hub.
In their latest e-commerce research, Flowwow and Admitad predict a 30%+ increase in online orders for Eid al-Fitr 2025 sales,…
PayerMax and Saudi Awwal Bank have partnered to revolutionize Saudi Arabia’s digital payments landscape. This strategic alliance aims to enhance merchant onboarding and facilitate global transactions, supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.