Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s Federal IT Minister and Saudi Arabia’s Communications Minister met to deepen collaboration in AI, digital infrastructure, and semiconductor technology training. They discussed the Pakistan Digital Corridor initiative, supported youth skill development, and reinforced strategic ties between the two countries.
Egypt has reduced its mobile phone import bill by 99.9% in early 2024, shifting towards local manufacturing with eight new factories. Government discussions are underway on potential import fees, with calls for grace periods and exemptions. This move aligns with Egypt’s plan to boost self-reliance and cut foreign currency reliance.
GBM has partnered with Landmark Hospitality to manage IT services across the GCC for the next three years. This collaboration will streamline IT operations, enabling Landmark to focus on growth and innovation. GBM will provide comprehensive IT infrastructure management and support services aligned with best practices.
Mobile phone manufacturers in Pakistan are calling for a localisation policy, price reduction, and control of cellphone smuggling to boost the local industry. With 36 assembly units meeting 95% of market demand, they emphasize the importance of duty adjustments on raw materials and finished products to enhance local manufacturing and exports.
The global wireless industry achieved a historic milestone in 2024, reaching 2.25 billion 5G connections, with North America leading the way. 5G adoption continues to expand rapidly, with forecasts predicting 8.3 billion 5G connections by 2029. Meanwhile, IoT saw an exceptional surge, with 438 million new connections in 2024.
Oman’s Telecom Regulation Authority (TRA) has revealed that 86% of children use the Internet, with initiatives being implemented to protect them from online threats. These include parental control features and partnerships with UNICEF. A proposed law will further regulate children’s Internet usage.
The taskforce will develop strategies within three months to make internet access more affordable.
AI and data-driven strategies are reshaping business operations, as highlighted by experts at the 11th Digital Summit. Keynote speaker Zaved Akhtar emphasized AI’s role in optimizing business processes, from inventory management to marketing strategies. The summit discussed the importance of digital transformation for engaging with emerging consumer generations.
Al Dhahirah Governorate launched a three-day tech innovation hackathon at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, engaging over 200 participants in developing solutions for local challenges. The event advances the governorate’s digital transformation agenda through collaboration, mentorship, and expert guidance, with prizes for top teams and plans to scale impactful projects.
Oman has launched Tajawob, a national platform for suggestions, complaints, and reports, integrating over 55 government institutions. Designed for accessibility and efficiency, the platform utilizes AI to process requests, ensuring prompt responses and transparency. Tajawob aligns with Oman Vision 2040 to enhance government-citizen communication and improve public service delivery.