Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Smartphone shipments in Africa have surpassed feature phones, with a 17.9% increase in Q1 2024, reaching 20.2 million units. This growth, driven by South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, is led by Chinese brands and mid-range models. IDC predicts continued growth despite short-term economic uncertainties.
Saudi Arabia’s cloud SEZ introduces a single corporate tax regime for cloud and data-centre firms, excluding zakat and aligning with global standards. The zone aims to accelerate cloud adoption, attract digital infrastructure investment, and reshape the Kingdom’s tax and regulatory environment for next-generation technology businesses.
Orange Jordan is enhancing its 5G coverage while promoting the “Subscribe & Win with 5G” campaign, allowing subscribers to win prizes like a 2024 BYD ATTO 3 electric car and PlayStation 5 consoles. The campaign aims to encourage the adoption of innovative 5G services across the kingdom.
Vodafone Oman celebrates its third anniversary with a strong market presence, 14% market share, and impressive growth. The company’s 5G rollout covers 98% of the population, while revenue grew by 58% in 2024. Its investments prioritize Omani SMEs, and its commitment to cybersecurity and digital transformation remains strong.
Iraq is working to bring global e-commerce companies like Amazon and SHEIN to the country by establishing the necessary infrastructure. The Ministry of Communications is also focusing on launching a national e-commerce platform and automating the postal system as part of a broader digital transformation effort.
Bangladesh’s internet usage rose to 48.9 percent in 2025, up from 44.5 percent in 2023, according to a BBS survey. While mobile phone access is nearly universal, gaps persist in smartphone ownership, internet use, and gender and urban-rural access, highlighting uneven digital inclusion.
Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior is set to install an advanced AI-based camera system nationwide to monitor and record traffic violations, aiming to reduce accidents. Alongside this initiative, a new traffic law will impose higher fines and restrict car ownership for expatriates, enhancing road safety in the country.
GITEX GLOBAL takes centre stage in the UAE with this year’s 44th edition destined to redefine the world’s digital economy and AI ecosystem.
Morocco signs a strategic partnership with Keiretsu Forum MENA to accelerate digital transformation, boost startup competitiveness, and connect local entrepreneurs with global investor networks.
TASC Group has appointed Jayajyoti Sengupta as CEO to lead its AI-driven growth strategy across the Middle East and North Africa, reflecting rising enterprise demand for outcome-based managed services as organisations accelerate AI adoption and modernise operating models in line with regional digital transformation initiatives.