Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Qatar launched satellite internet services, becoming the first Arab country to do so, boosting network resilience and supporting the National Vision 2030’s digital transformation goals. The technology benefits sectors like education and healthcare, with Qatar Airways demonstrating its practical impact.
Vodafone Qatar’s iPay app offers USD 2.75 cashback on international transfers, promoting digital payments aligned with Qatar’s 2030 cashless economy goals. The operator-agnostic app supports fast, secure remittances and merchant payments, in partnership with Gulf Exchange and other financial institutions.
Saudi Signs Media and Rotana Signs won rights to operate 2,688 digital screens inside Riyadh Metro carriages. The network offers high-frequency advertising across six lines, engaging millions of passengers in Saudi Arabia’s largest transit system and aligning with Vision 2030 goals.
Zain KSA and Cisco signed an MoU to build AI infrastructure and GPU-as-a-Service, advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The partnership focuses on secure, scalable AI solutions and includes talent upskilling initiatives to drive national AI capabilities.
Vertiv held a training event in Riyadh showcasing modular power distribution solutions, including the Powerbar iMPB busway, to support Saudi Arabia’s AI-driven digital growth and Vision 2030. The company’s local presence enables tailored support for critical infrastructure in data centers and smart cities.
Saudi quick commerce startup Ninja raised $254 million in a pre-IPO round at a $1.5 billion valuation. Operating across GCC countries, Ninja offers instant delivery of groceries and food, with nearly $1 billion in annual GMV and profitability, positioning itself for IPO and further expansion.
Meta unveiled AI tools and pledged support for Pakistan’s AI capacity building. Pakistan’s IT minister reaffirmed digital transformation priorities, emphasizing youth skills and cashless economy goals. Both agreed on expanding cooperation in AI adoption and digital innovation.
Starlink is set to launch satellite internet services in Pakistan by late 2025. The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board is finalizing licensing rules, with Starlink leading applications. Other firms like Amazon and OneWeb are also interested in entering Pakistan’s satellite internet market.
Pakistan’s telecom sector is pivoting from infrastructure-heavy models to digital platforms. Jazz’s sale of tower assets to Engro freed capital to invest in fintech, healthtech, and other digital services, aligning with global shifts driven by rising costs and changing consumer demand.
Oman Air partnered with COMEX 2025 to support Oman’s digital transformation and global tech presence. The airline will enhance customer experiences and help showcase innovations in AI, IoT, and cybersecurity. This collaboration advances Oman’s shift to a knowledge-based economy and tech-driven growth.