Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cyber Security Council, will speak at the Global AI Show in December 2024. The event will bring together global leaders to discuss AI and cybersecurity. Dr. Al Kuwaiti’s leadership has elevated the UAE’s cybersecurity strategy, advancing its global position.
Zarrar Hasham Khan has been appointed as the new chairman of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), effective March 10, 2025, replacing Azfar Manzoor. Khan brings over two decades of experience in the telecom sector, including leadership roles at Saudi Telecom Company, and holds degrees from top universities.
Userguest, a Moroccan SaaS startup, has raised $2.4 million in Seed funding led by Al Mada Ventures. The platform helps hotels optimize direct revenue with personalized visitor messages. The funding will boost Userguest’s sales team and drive product innovation for rapid growth.
Mobile phone imports in Pakistan declined by 16.31% in July-May 2024-25, with a sharp 35.83% drop in May 2025 compared to last year. Despite this, overall merchandise exports rose by 5.15%, while total imports increased by 7.50% in the same period.
Ooredoo has renewed its 25-year partnership with the Qatar Football Association for the Amir Cup, securing a four-year sponsorship agreement. The deal reinforces Ooredoo’s ongoing support for national sports and commitment to enhancing Qatar’s football community. The partnership will run until 2028, continuing their long-standing collaboration.
Egypt’s mobile wallet transactions hit EGP 943.4bn in Q2 2025, up 72% year-on-year, with 717.7 million transactions and 46.3 million active wallets. Vodafone Cash led the market with 81% of transaction value. The NTRA has reinforced security and enabled international remittances to further boost adoption.
UAE cybersecurity experts are raising concerns over privacy risks with AI applications turning selfies into Studio Ghibli-style artwork. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti and media professionals warn that unofficial apps could misuse personal data. They advise users to stick to verified platforms, emphasizing the need for stronger cybersecurity standards.
Bangladesh will implement a Unique Business Identity and complaint management system to enhance ecommerce transparency and consumer protection, complemented by digital transaction and parcel tracking platforms.
Disney has partnered with Miral to develop a tech-centric theme park in Abu Dhabi, located on Yas Island. This marks Disney’s seventh theme park resort but with a licensing agreement rather than direct ownership. The park will blend Disney’s legacy with Abu Dhabi’s cultural essence and cutting-edge technology.
This speed mentoring event provided the youth with opportunities for one-to-one discussions with industry leaders and gain insights from a career planning session delivered by Zain.