Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Chattogram Port is introducing an automated system to speed up and digitize export-import processes. Implemented by Magnetic Tech Limited, the platform will centralize data, streamline documentation, and enhance transparency, helping modernize port operations and strengthen Bangladesh’s global trade infrastructure.
Grameenphone has become the first operator in Bangladesh to acquire 700MHz spectrum, paying Tk2,370 crore for 10MHz. The low-band frequency will improve rural and indoor coverage, strengthen 4G and future 5G networks, and mark a major upgrade in nationwide mobile broadband capability.
Egypt has licensed tpay to enable direct carrier billing for government services, allowing citizens to pay utilities, fines, and official fees through mobile balances. The move expands access for unbanked users, simplifies transactions, and strengthens Egypt’s shift toward inclusive, mobile-first digital payments.
Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit will showcase 11 startups at its third Demo Day in Riyadh on January 28, spanning AI, edtech, food tech, proptech, and more. Each company receives $100,000 and four months of intensive support, advancing Saudi Vision 2030’s drive for innovation and economic diversification.
Nearly six in ten consumers in Kuwait now rely primarily on digital payments, according to Visa. Cash use is falling across everyday categories, with peer-to-peer payments seeing the sharpest decline. Convenience, security, and rewards are driving the shift toward cards and mobile wallets.
Egypt has launched its first hackathon in the New Valley to empower youth, drive digital entrepreneurship, and address local challenges. Led by MCIT and NTI, the initiative targets students and graduates, offering training, mentorship, and cash prizes for innovations in agriculture, energy, tourism, and community services.
Egyptian edtech leader eYouth has entered Iraq with the launch of the country’s first Arabic digital learning platform. Partnering with Al-Majal Group, the initiative targets workforce readiness, employer-aligned skills, and scalable education, supporting youth, professionals, and national economic development.
Riyadh Air has launched Riyadh Cargo as a tech-first air freight business, embedding digital platforms, real-time tracking, and scalable operations across its wide-body fleet. The move supports Vision 2030, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub while enabling reliable, data-driven cargo growth alongside the airline’s expansion.
Saudi geospatial firm GBT has raised $1.3 million in pre-seed funding to scale its smart city and GeoAI solutions across the Kingdom. The round will fuel team growth, infrastructure, and next-generation products as demand rises under Vision 2030 and mega-projects like NEOM drive adoption of spatial intelligence.
Saudi Arabia’s investment minister told Davos the AI race is accelerating and no single nation will dominate. Emphasizing global diffusion and strategic optionality, he outlined the Kingdom’s energy-backed AI ambitions, cross-border data strategy, and early leadership on digital embassies to safeguard sovereignty in a multipolar AI future.