Gulf Strategic Solutions and Festipay have partnered to enhance cashless payment technology for events across the Middle East. This collaboration focuses on developing integrated cashless solutions for major events, following their success at the Bahrain Grand Prix and other prominent events.
stc Group has maintained its position as the most valuable telecom brand in the Middle East, ranking 9th globally. With a 16% increase in brand value, stc continues to lead with a Brand Strength Index of 88.7. The company’s growth aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on innovation and digital transformation.
Algeria is fast-tracking its digital transformation with over 500 projects planned for 2025-2026 under the ‘Digital Algeria 2030’ initiative. The strategy aims to modernize public services, improve transparency, and streamline governance, positioning the country as a regional leader in digital innovation and governance.
Falcon 3, the latest open-source LLM from the Technology Innovation Institute, sets new performance benchmarks for small AI models. With its ability to run efficiently on lightweight infrastructures, including laptops, it offers powerful reasoning and fine-tuning capabilities. This model is poised to revolutionize AI accessibility globally.
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has lifted restrictions on mobile data packages, allowing operators to offer hourly data packs. The new directives also include limits on daily, 2-day, and 3-day packs. Mobile operators welcome the move, which is expected to foster innovation and improve customer service.
Telecom Egypt and SubCom have completed two cable landing stations in Egypt for the India-Europe-Xpress (IEX) subsea cable system. The stations at Zafarana2 and Sidi Kerir enhance connectivity between Mumbai and Milan, supporting Egypt’s role as a key hub linking Africa, Europe, and Asia.
EZPac, a burgeoning digital printing startup, is set to transform the stand-up pouch market in Morocco with the installation of…
Lobna Helal has been appointed as the new chair of Telecom Egypt, becoming the first woman to lead its board. With over 30 years of banking experience, Helal replaces Dr. Magued Osman, who stepped down after nine years. Mohamed Nasr has also been reappointed as managing director and CEO.
Pakistan’s mobile phone assembly industry saw a 47% increase in production in 2024, reaching 31.4 million units. Government import restrictions, tax incentives, and economic recovery drove the growth. December 2024 alone saw a 28% month-over-month increase in local assembly, continuing a positive trend in the sector.
Egypt’s “Shaping AI Horizon” forum focused on the National AI Strategy (2025-2030), aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and technology investment. Key pillars include AI infrastructure, talent development, and regulatory frameworks. ITIDA and 500 Global are collaborating to address AI skill shortages and promote innovation within Egypt’s AI ecosystem.
