MEA Tech Watch - Your Dose of Daily Tech News

Rostro Group Enters UAE Market with New SCA Licence

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

Rostro Group has entered the UAE fintech market after receiving a Category 5 licence from the Securities and Commodities Authority. The approval enables the group to expand its institutional and retail trading services across the GCC through its Scope Prime and Scope Markets brands. Backed by a fast-growing fintech ecosystem and strong regulatory support, Rostro’s move reinforces the UAE’s position as the leading fintech hub in the MENA region.

Qatar Launches Sovereign AI Firm Qai to Strengthen National Technology Strategy

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

Qatar has launched Qai, a new sovereign-backed AI company under the Qatar Investment Authority, to invest in AI infrastructure and commercialize advanced technologies. Unlike regional peers, Qai will not build its own language models but will focus on deploying trusted AI systems and emerging technologies. The move signals Qatar’s formal entry into the Gulf’s rapidly expanding state-led AI race.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar Sign Deal to Build High-Speed Rail Link Between Riyadh and Doha

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

Saudi Arabia and Qatar have agreed to build a high-speed rail line connecting Riyadh and Doha, with stops in Al-Hofuf and Dammam. The electric railway will reach speeds above 300 km/h and cut travel time between the capitals to around two hours. Expected to be completed within six years, the project aims to serve up to 10 million passengers annually and strengthen regional connectivity.

Google Trends 2025 Shows Pakistan’s Deep Cricket Obsession and Rising Tech Curiosity

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

Google Trends 2025 shows cricket as Pakistan’s most dominant online obsession, cutting across class and region as a rare national unifier. Technology searches surged as Pakistanis explored AI tools, digital payments, and online learning. “How-to” queries highlighted everyday survival challenges, while climate, health, politics, and local entertainment reflected a society navigating uncertainty through digital dependence.

Oman to Host Global Semiconductor Executive Summit on December 9–10

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

Oman will host the International Semiconductor Executive Summit on December 9–10, bringing together over 150 global leaders, CEOs, and experts to discuss the future of the semiconductor industry in the MENA region. Organized by MTCIT under the patronage of Oman Vision 2040 leadership, the summit will focus on building an integrated regional semiconductor ecosystem, showcasing advanced technologies, enhancing local talent, and supporting Oman’s long-term economic diversification and digital transformation strategy.

Oman’s Telecom Regulator to Host Public Dialogue on Rising Electronic Fraud

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

Electronic fraud has emerged as a growing concern in Oman’s digital ecosystem, prompting the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority to organize a public dialogue on December 14 under its “Constructive Dialogue” series. The session will focus on identifying common scam techniques, understanding how networks facilitate fraud, and assessing public awareness. By bringing stakeholders together, the TRA aims to strengthen consumer protection frameworks, enhance cybersecurity awareness, and improve overall trust in telecom services.

TRA Takes Action Against Sale of Unlicensed Telecom Devices in Oman

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Oman has taken legal action against companies selling unlicensed telecom devices used for unauthorized network setups, citing risks to consumer protection, data security, and service quality. Alongside this enforcement, the TRA will host a public engagement session on December 14 under its “Constructive Dialogue” initiative to address the growing challenge of electronic fraud, explore scam patterns, and develop stronger consumer protection measures through collaborative discussion.

Ncell Begins Issuing Mobile Numbers Under New 971 Series

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

Mobile operator Ncell has begun issuing numbers under a new 971 prefix after receiving approval from Nepal’s telecom regulator. The new range was introduced as the company’s existing number series approached exhaustion. Ncell has asked government bodies, banks, and service providers to update their systems to ensure seamless OTP delivery, digital transactions, and mobile-based services.

Ncell Calls for Clear 5G Policy Framework as Nepal Weighs Telecom Reforms

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

Ncell CEO Michael Foley has called on the Nepal government to provide clear policy direction for the launch of 5G, citing uncertainty around spectrum, taxation, investment, and licensing as major barriers. He warned that outdated telecom laws and ambiguity over Ncell’s ownership status after 2029 are discouraging long-term investment. While 5G is seen as vital for Nepal’s digital future, Foley said government facilitation is essential to make nationwide deployment commercially viable.

Makhazen Recognized for Advancing Cybersecurity Talent at Kuwait Hackathon 2025

Shahzaib3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

Makhazen was recognized at the 2025 Kuwait Hackathon for its continued efforts to develop local cybersecurity talent through its long-term partnership with CODED Academy. The company has supported the training of more than 6,900 students since 2022 and renewed its sponsorship for a second consecutive year. The 2025 program delivered workshops to over 620 participants and hosted more than 220 competitors, reinforcing cybersecurity as a national priority and key pillar of Kuwait’s digital transformation.