Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The UAE’s data centre market is set to grow significantly, projected to reach AED 9.7 billion ($2.64 billion) by 2029. As data centre facilities expand, the demand for specialized cleaning services adhering to international standards is increasing. Hitches & Glitches has noted a rise in demand for such services to maintain optimal performance and safety.
Toolmart, Iraq’s B2B e-commerce startup, raised seed funding led by Plus VC and Oasis500 to expand its tech-enabled, inventory-light procurement platform across the Middle East. With strong enterprise adoption and 38% Q1 2025 growth, Toolmart is digitizing industrial sourcing for sectors like oil & gas and construction.
Jordan’s Chambers of Commerce head Khalil Hajj Tawfiq announced upcoming Jordanian-Syrian technical and economic forums in Damascus as Syria’s reconstruction advances post-sanctions. Jordan aims to leverage its IT expertise and contribute to Syria’s rebuilding, urging Arab nations to support efforts across construction, technology, and education sectors.
In 2024, Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) conducted 148 inspections and reviewed over 11,400 telecom device import applications. Violations related to imports decreased significantly, reflecting improved compliance. TRA emphasized the importance of licensing and adhering to technical regulations to prevent interference and ensure optimal use of the frequency spectrum.
Sri Lanka’s Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRCSL) has dismissed rumors of suspending the Starlink satellite broadband service. Director General Bandula Herath confirmed the service will launch in April once the necessary regulatory systems are in place, ensuring proper service delivery and national security regulations.
Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, met with UNDP’s Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari to discuss enhancing cooperation in infrastructure, digital innovation, and artificial intelligence. The partnership aims to support Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Al Wusta Governorate has launched a new electronic portal to enhance digital services, featuring a user-friendly interface and various applications.
The UAE Ministry of Economy has welcomed UK-based TG0 and Chinese firm Zelos Technology to its NextGen FDI programme. These companies will leverage the UAE’s infrastructure to advance innovations in touch-sensing and autonomous driving technologies, contributing to the country’s knowledge economy and Vision 2030 goals.
Nepal Telecom will discontinue its 2G service by the end of the year and launch eSIM services. The company aims to enhance customer experience and expand into 5G, as directed by the government. NT is also focusing on 4G coverage and broadband services for local communities.
The initiative supports Kuwait’s digital transformation strategy with a focus on high-speed fiber optic network expansion.