Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The UAE leads global mobile shopping, with 67% using smartphones for recent purchases, outpacing Saudi Arabia and Singapore. Driven by convenience and security, mobile retail grew 23% since 2022. Millennials lead adoption, Gen X follows, and rising cross-channel shopping solidifies the UAE’s role in digital commerce innovation.
Telecom operators in Pakistan, including Wateen and Jazz, have raised concerns about PTCL’s acquisition of Telenor Pakistan, warning it could lead to reduced competition and increased market dominance. They called for regulatory safeguards to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure a balanced telecom landscape in the country.
i4 Solutions has expanded its managed security services by integrating Cisco’s Extended Detection and Response (XDR) solution. This advancement enhances cybersecurity capabilities for businesses in Qatar, allowing for comprehensive threat detection and response, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030 to drive digital transformation and innovation.
Banglalink’s “Smartphone on Installment” program offers affordable 4G smartphones through no-credit-card EMI plans, enabling wider digital inclusion in Bangladesh. Supported by partners PalmPay, Genex, and Ismartu, the initiative reduces entry barriers and provides complimentary data and rewards to customers upgrading their devices.
Microsoft has appointed Samer Abu-Ltaif as the new President for the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. With over 34 years of experience, he will focus on driving AI innovation and expanding Microsoft’s presence across EMEA, continuing the company’s transformation initiatives and regional growth strategies.
du has launched the du Innovation Center to accelerate 5G and AI-powered solutions, aiming to drive innovation across consumer and enterprise sectors. The center will explore new commercial applications in 5G advanced, AI, and immersive technologies, aligning with the UAE’s vision to lead in digital transformation.
Oman’s telecom providers have issued warnings against the illegal sharing of Wi-Fi and internet services, outlining severe consequences including service termination and legal action. This crackdown aims to ensure compliance with the laws regulated by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority.
TikTok has launched the second phase of its #SaferTogether initiative in partnership with NITDA and Data Science Nigeria. The programme aims to enhance digital safety and literacy across Nigerian communities, addressing challenges like misinformation, cyberbullying, and data protection. It includes workshops, outreach, and educational resources for parents and guardians.
Gulf Business Machines and Arab Open University have partnered to boost cybersecurity for digital education across the Arab region. Utilizing GBM’s COR. platform, the initiative offers comprehensive threat detection, response, and advisory services to protect academic data and ensure secure learning environments amid increasing cyber risks.
MoneyFellows, an Egyptian fintech, raised $13 million to scale its digital platform for Rotating Savings and Credit Associations (ROSCAs). With over 8.5 million users, the company has achieved profitability and plans to expand across Africa and South Asia. It aims to modernize informal savings models while maintaining a lean operation.