Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Batelco has signed an MoU with Bahrain’s Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture to enhance digital infrastructure, focusing on connectivity, voice communication, smart security, and digital signage. The partnership aims to improve municipal services and foster sustainable development through innovative digital solutions and technical support.
Turk Telekom has expanded its fiber network to 437,000 km, covering 32.2 million households in Turkey. As the leading provider, it has also linked 52% of its LTE 4G base stations with fiber. Committed to 5G readiness, it offers innovative solutions through a new partnership with Schneider Electric.
Zain KSA has launched new digital authentication services in Saudi Arabia through a partnership with the Sadq platform, enhancing digital transformation and sustainability. This initiative aims to improve customer experience, streamline operations, and bolster data protection, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals. Zain Cloud has been awarded the highest rating for cloud computing service providers by CST.
Yuze, a UAE-based digital business banking platform, is set to expand into India in Q2 2025. The platform will offer SMEs and freelancers in India tailored financial solutions, including digital accounts, automated invoicing, and expense tracking tools. Yuze aims to support financial inclusion and business growth in India’s digital economy.
Qatar Airways has launched its first AI-powered virtual cabin crew member, Sama, at ITB Berlin 2024. Active on Instagram, Sama will provide personalized travel recommendations, engage users with destination content, and promote sustainability efforts. This initiative marks a significant shift toward AI-driven marketing in the airline industry.
Visa has launched the Tap-to-Add Card feature in Egypt, allowing cardholders to easily add Visa contactless cards to digital wallets with a simple tap. This innovation enhances security by eliminating manual entry and offers a faster, safer alternative to traditional methods, supporting Egypt’s digital payment landscape and cashless goals.
Bazzar Gate, a Kuwait-based e-commerce startup, has secured $1 million to enhance its platform, Partners. This investment will expand features and improve user experiences, facilitating easy e-commerce business setup for entrepreneurs.
PayMaster has launched HOPPR, a ride-hailing service in Sri Lanka that integrates digital payments and an AI-powered credit system, offering drivers financial independence. With a unique referral system, drivers earn lifelong commissions, and access credit for expenses. The platform aims to empower gig workers and revolutionize the digital economy.
Huawei and UNESCO’s TeOSS project, supporting digital education, marks significant progress in Egypt, Ghana, and Ethiopia, focusing on enhancing educators’ digital skills and establishing a National Distance Learning Centre in Egypt.
e& UAE has launched its Neo Home plans, offering affordable high-speed internet with customizable entertainment options. Starting at AED 399 per month, the plans feature 1Gbps speeds, Amazon Prime, and TV add-ons. An all-inclusive option, Neo Fusion, offers more benefits for AED 799, including full-home Wi-Fi and extra entertainment subscriptions.