Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Nepal Telecom’s launch of 3G services in Sangta village marks a critical step toward digital inclusion in remote Nepalese regions. By overcoming logistical challenges and leveraging solar-powered infrastructure, NTC is enhancing communication access for residents and visitors alike. This move lays the groundwork for future 4G expansion, fostering economic growth and connectivity in underserved areas.
Pakistan’s representation at MWC 2025 highlighted its digital transformation, with PTA Chairman emphasizing the nation’s regulatory advancements and commitment to 5G readiness. The discussions centered around international collaborations to boost digital inclusion and cross-border connectivity, reinforcing Pakistan’s position as an emerging ICT hub.
PTCL has restored full internet services in Pakistan following the repair of the AAE-1 undersea cable. After facing slow speeds and access issues in 2024, PTCL teams worked swiftly to resolve disruptions. The added bandwidth minimized service interruptions, ensuring smooth browsing for users, including on major social platforms.
Zain Omantel International (ZOI) has secured the highest ASN ranking in the Middle East, becoming the only regional network in the global top 100. This milestone highlights ZOI’s advanced infrastructure and global reach, reinforcing its position as the leading gateway for international connectivity across the Middle East and beyond.
Qatar has partnered with Scale AI to launch over 50 AI applications aimed at transforming public services in the next five years. This collaboration emphasizes predictive analytics and automation, positioning Qatar as a regional leader in AI adoption, with potential impacts on sectors like finance, transportation, and healthcare.
InvoiceQ has raised $1.2 million in a pre-Series A funding round, backed by Oasis 500, Orange VC, and other investors. The company specializes in e-invoicing solutions and plans to expand into Oman, Egypt, the UAE, and the GCC. The funds will help accelerate growth and improve service offerings across the MENA region.
Brookfield Asset Management is close to acquiring a stake in an Omani telecom operator, marking its first investment in Oman’s telecom market. The deal highlights increasing foreign interest amid Oman’s telecom liberalization and digital growth initiatives.
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) and Mawhiba are hosting the “Summer Forum” from 7 July to 1 August 2024 to train 11 students for the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics in Brazil. The forum aims to foster talent and raise awareness in the space science and technology fields.
This strategic move represents not just the expansion of a fintech giant, but a potential redefining of how financial services are delivered in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
LuLu Exchange has partnered with Fintech Galaxy to improve cross-border payments in Bahrain by leveraging open banking solutions. This collaboration aims to enhance transaction speed, security, and convenience, aligning with Bahrain’s financial inclusion goals. The partnership positions LuLu Exchange as the first licensed company to integrate open banking for payments.