Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The National Events Center is hosting the second EventTech meetup in Riyadh, focusing on AI, data science, and innovation to transform the events industry. The event fosters collaboration among tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors.
The Saudi Hajj Ministry, in partnership with local telecoms, has enabled offline access to the Nusuk app, allowing pilgrims to use essential services like permits, train bookings, and navigation without mobile data during Hajj and Umrah.
Qatar’s MoCI launched a digital platform to showcase public-private partnership investment projects, enhancing transparency and private sector participation in infrastructure, services, and technology, supporting Qatar National Vision 2030.
Huawei Qatar launched ‘Go Paint’, a digital art initiative blending traditional and modern techniques using MatePad devices, aiming to inspire student creativity. The program, praised by Qatar’s Ministry of Education, reflects Huawei’s commitment to integrating technology and education.
Vodafone Qatar has launched the ZTE U60 Pro, the region’s first Wi-Fi 7 5G mobile hotspot, offering ultra-fast speeds, extensive device connectivity, and a long-lasting battery. Available exclusively through Vodafone Qatar for QR999 at select retail stores and online.
Pakistan is finalizing regulations to govern satellite internet services following interest from Chinese companies and Starlink’s entry. The framework may enable direct satellite-to-mobile connectivity, improving remote access, with licensing to begin soon after regulatory approval.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has blocked 184 gambling-related websites and apps based on complaints from government agencies and the public. PTA uses complaint-based mechanisms and an e-portal to monitor and remove unlawful content, while legal action against offenders is handled by other authorities.
Jazz topped the PTA’s latest Quality of Service survey, leading in coverage, broadband speeds, latency, and voice quality. The operator’s investments in 4G and digital innovation position it as Pakistan’s foremost telecom service provider.
President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s intent to expand trade and investment with Oman in IT, construction, healthcare, and energy, emphasizing government collaboration and private-sector growth to strengthen bilateral ties.
The Digital Cooperation Organisation’s Startup Country Guide 2024 highlights Oman’s evolving startup ecosystem, emphasizing Vision 2040, government incentives, and sectoral opportunities in fintech, AI, 5G, and IoT, supported by initiatives like the Oman Future Fund and OTF’s Techween.