Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Oman’s Hadatha Hackathon showcased strong national cybersecurity talent, delivering practical, telecom-focused solutions aligned with real industry needs. With support from regulators and operators, many projects demonstrated commercial potential, reinforcing the role of local innovation in strengthening Oman’s digital security ecosystem.
Iraq’s rapid digital expansion has connected millions of young people, but high youth unemployment highlights the challenge of turning access into jobs. By investing in digital skills, inclusive participation, and stronger public-private collaboration, Iraq can convert connectivity into sustainable economic opportunity and long-term growth.
Bangladesh’s mobile operators deployed portable towers, AI-based traffic management, and expanded capacity to maintain uninterrupted connectivity during Tarique Rahman’s reception. Preparations along key corridors helped manage heavy data and voice traffic, ensuring stable network performance despite large crowds.
Cash still accounts for over 65 percent of transaction value in Bangladesh despite growth in digital payments and mobile financial services. Central bank data show slow progress toward a cashless economy, with businesses favoring cheques, limited digital acceptance, and MFS largely confined to small-value transfers.
Sharjah Coop has partnered with LEAFIO to deploy an AI-powered retail platform aimed at improving inventory management, merchandising, and operational efficiency. The initiative supports the Coop’s digital transformation strategy and positions it as a leader in smart retail innovation in the UAE.
OCCI hosted the second CEOs’ Forum in Muscat, bringing together leaders of Omani tech and telecom startups with policymakers to advance digital transformation. The event highlighted AI, innovation, and partnerships as key drivers of economic diversification, while showcasing startups and Oman’s improving global digital competitiveness.
The PTA has warned that mobile SIM cards must be registered in the name of the actual user, holding registered subscribers fully accountable for misuse. The move supports wider efforts to prevent illegal activities linked to improperly registered SIMs and reinforces mandatory compliance with telecom regulations.
Group-IB and VAS Integrated Solutions have signed an MoU to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities across Saudi Arabia through channel-led expansion, joint market development, and partner enablement. The partnership will deliver advanced cyber threat and fraud intelligence, support awareness and training initiatives, and enhance national cybersecurity resilience in line with the Kingdom’s digital transformation goals.
Bahrain chaired the 15th GCC Smart Card Steering Committee meeting in Riyadh, focusing on unified digital identity standards, smart card integration, and regional cooperation. The discussions reinforced GCC efforts to enhance digital services, harmonise technology frameworks, and build a more connected and sustainable digital future for citizens.
KARACHI: Data Vault Pakistan and the Centre of Excellence Artificial Intelligence Technology Center (CoE AITeC) at the National Centre for…