Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Diriyah Art Futures has opened its doors in Riyadh with the inaugural exhibition, “Art Must Be Artificial: Perspectives of AI in the Visual Arts,” showcasing over 30 international and regional artists. The exhibition explores the evolution of computer art, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the global new media art scene.
Egypt’s ICP Hub launch breaks blockchain barriers by enabling payments in Egyptian pounds and supporting decentralized apps with strong privacy. The World Computer Hacker League 2025 offers local developers a global platform to compete with substantial prizes. Operated by Mercatura Forum, ICP Hub Egypt aims to build national digital sovereignty and innovation.
Maxis has partnered with China Mobile International to launch CMLink, a new MVNO brand in Malaysia offering 4G/5G services, multi-number SIMs, and cross-border data sharing. The move follows earlier collaborations on private 5G solutions and expands CMI’s regional footprint in Southeast Asia.
Dubai Customs and DP World have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance digital trade and logistics solutions in Dubai. This partnership aims to streamline customs processes, support cross-border trade, and contribute to Dubai’s economic agenda, positioning the city as a leading global trade hub.
Islamabad’s new IT Park will open on August 14, featuring 120 offices, a startup incubator, a business support centre, and Pakistan’s first Tier III Data Centre. The park aims to boost collaboration across academia, industry, and policymakers, with plans underway for a similar facility near Karachi.
Zain Saudi Arabia achieved record data usage, internet speed, and international roaming during the Hajj season of 1445 AH, with significant growth in 5G users and data traffic. The company continues to lead in 5G technology, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and enhancing the Hajj experience for pilgrims.
Oracle and AWS have launched Oracle Database@AWS, offering advanced integration of Oracle databases with AWS cloud services to streamline cloud operations and enhance data management.
Dialog Axiata has launched a new real-time school van tracking service, enhancing student safety and operational efficiency. Leveraging GPS and 4G technology, parents can track their child’s van and receive alerts via SMS. The service benefits van operators by improving reliability and accountability. Devices cost LKR18,990, with a subscription fee of LKR1,910.
Edgnex Data Centres by DAMAC plans to invest in a 15MW data centre in Jakarta, Indonesia, scheduled for completion in late 2025. This facility aims to meet the growing demands of cloud service providers and AI deployments, supporting Jakarta’s goal to boost its data centre capacity to 1GW.
stc Group successfully completed a PoC for network slicing over GPON infrastructure using Nokia’s Altiplano Access Controller. The solution allows dynamic resource allocation, improving service deployment, user experience, and infrastructure efficiency. It is set to accelerate the delivery of digital services, offering scalability and unlocking new revenue opportunities for stc.