Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The University of Dubai and MEA-Comm UAE have launched the first regional 5G testbed, the Industry 4.0 and Future Connectivity HUB, designed to accelerate the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies across the UAE and MEA region. The HUB will validate cutting-edge 5G-based solutions for various industries.
Morocco is advancing its digital transformation through a partnership focused on research and development in digital fields. The goal is to build a skilled workforce, with initiatives aimed at training 45,000 digital talents annually and supporting innovation in key sectors.
Kantar’s Africascope Maghreb 2024 study reveals that urban Moroccans spend an average of 5 hours and 46 minutes daily on media, with internet usage soaring to 91%. Social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram dominate online activities, while television continues to hold strong with 2 hours and 57 minutes of daily viewing.
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.
Women in Tech Sri Lanka has announced a new leadership team and renewed its partnership with Mark & Comm Ltd. for two years. The collaboration will focus on advocacy, mentorship, and communications to empower more women in STEAM, align with global initiatives, and amplify women’s voices in Sri Lanka.
Wazoku has expanded into the GCC region, establishing a presence in the UAE and investing in local server infrastructure to meet regional needs. The company has partnered with FKRA to enhance its local operations and support the growing demand for innovation services, aligning with the UAE’s Vision 2030.
The Bangladesh Mobile Consumers Association (BMCA) proposed 17 reforms to the BTRC, advocating for better consumer rights, service quality, and regulatory independence. Their suggestions include making internet access a human right and improving the transparency of tariff setting and infrastructure standards.
Oman’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) is rolling out new initiatives to improve telecom transparency. Key updates include a regulation to ensure accurate billing systems and the launch of the “Commercial Caller ID” project, requiring corporate call centers to identify themselves and their purpose, aiming to protect consumers.
Ooredoo Kuwait is advancing its digital leadership with strategic investments in 5G, AI, and sustainability. The company is launching its 5G Advanced network, utilizing AI for self-organizing networks, predictive maintenance, and customer service. Sustainability efforts include solar-powered sites and reducing energy consumption, supporting Kuwait’s digital transformation.
du, alongside Microsoft, Nokia, Khalifa University, and ITU, has launched the first Arabic-language telecom AI model designed to enhance internal operations with culturally aware, real-time support. The project advances UAE’s vision for sovereign AI and sector innovation.