Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s telecom operators invested Rs. 267.6 billion over three years, with Jazz leading at Rs. 95.45 billion, followed by Zong, Ufone, and Telenor. Despite this, service quality gaps persist, prompting PTA to issue warnings and show-cause notices. Over 65,000 complaints were filed, mainly about data services.
Africa’s digital transformation faces challenges due to reliance on outdated 3G/2G networks, limiting access to modern services. However, with the expansion of 4G/5G and infrastructure improvements, the continent is poised for growth in digital inclusion, economic participation, and connectivity, driving innovations in mobile financial services, healthcare, and education.
Saudi Arabia uses AI-powered robots, smart apps, and integrated platforms to enhance safety, health, transport, and spiritual services for nearly two million pilgrims during Hajj.
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has finalized the audit process for Teletalk, the state-owned mobile operator, addressing unpaid fees and regulatory compliance. The audit aims to enhance operational transparency. BTRC is also continuing audits on Grameenphone, Robi Axiata, and Banglalink as part of its broader regulatory efforts.
Mamoura Diversified Global Holding is selling 7.5% of its stake in du through a DFM share sale, valued between Dh3.08B and Dh3.39B. The offering, open September 8–12, targets both retail and institutional investors, while du’s H1 2025 profits rose 15% to Dh921M.
Ursula von der Leyen, re-elected European Commission president, plans to focus her next term on the Mediterranean, emphasizing digital transformation. The new portfolio will strengthen various sectors through initiatives like the MEDUSA project, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic stability, job creation, and regional cooperation in digital development.
Pakistan is set to enhance its telecom infrastructure with an upcoming spectrum auction. The government has released 567 MHz of additional spectrum across multiple bands to support 4G and 5G services. The auction aims to meet growing mobile data demand, boost economic growth, and improve broadband coverage nationwide.
Dubai AI Week, inaugurated by Sheikh Hamdan, emphasizes AI as the foundation for the city’s future. The event brings together global experts, policymakers, and businesses to accelerate AI adoption, with a focus on enhancing quality of life, economic growth, and preparing societies for a tech-driven future.
The “MY KUWAIT ID” app introduces three verification levels: Medium, High, and Verified, each offering different features based on the registration method. These levels provide users with secure access to services such as civil ID, document verification, authentication, and electronic signatures, ensuring a high standard of data protection.
Vodafone Egypt has partnered with ELSEWEDY ELECTRIC to manufacture advanced telecommunications equipment locally. This collaboration aims to produce fibre cables, lithium batteries, and antennas, marking a significant step towards enhancing Egypt’s telecom industry and reducing dependency on imports, while promoting economic growth and innovation.