Sri Lanka’s Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRCSL) has dismissed rumors of suspending the Starlink satellite broadband service. Director General Bandula Herath confirmed the service will launch in April once the necessary regulatory systems are in place, ensuring proper service delivery and national security regulations.
At the 79th UN General Assembly, digital transformation takes center stage to advance SDGs in the Arab States amid crises. Initiatives like AI4SD and D4SD aim to bridge the digital divide, promoting AI and digital strategies to tackle regional challenges and achieve sustainable development by 2030.
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) invites the public to vote for Saudi projects in the ITU WSIS Prizes 2025, supporting national initiatives in 18 categories. With 24 projects submitted, Saudi Arabia aims to promote digital development and advance the Sustainable Development Goals. Voting is open until April 30, 2025.
Starlink has applied to establish ground stations in Pakistan to provide high-speed internet through its LEO satellite network. The company, registered under “Starlink Internet Services (Private) Limited,” is awaiting regulatory approval to expand broadband services in underserved areas, potentially revolutionizing internet access in the country.
Bahrain has launched an online platform for small vessel registration and licensing, reducing processing times by up to 50%. The platform offers services like registration, renewals, and ownership transfers, and is integrated with the Coastguard. It aligns with Bahrain’s digital transformation goals under the Economic Vision 2030.
Pakistan’s seminar on 5G technology highlighted plans for 5G spectrum auctions in April-May, aiming to improve connectivity. Key speakers, including PTA Chairman Hafeez Ur Rehman and Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, discussed how 5G deployment and enhanced submarine cable infrastructure will boost digital transformation and IT exports.
PureHealth has teamed up with Dell Technologies to infuse generative AI into healthcare, aiming to boost early disease detection, analyze medical data, and create personalized treatment plans in Abu Dhabi.
Revibe, a UAE-based marketplace for refurbished electronics, raised $7 million in its Series A round to expand its product offerings and accelerate growth in the MENA region. The company aims to enhance customer experience, reduce CO2 emissions, and continue its expansion in emerging markets with a focus on sustainability.
stc Group and Microsoft have entered a pivotal partnership aimed at transforming Saudi Arabia’s digital landscape. This alliance will enable stc’s subsidiaries to innovate and tap into new markets, creating opportunities for businesses and advancing the Kingdom’s global innovation stance. With a focus on inclusive and sustainable innovation, this collaboration will introduce advanced technologies to support digital transformation and economic diversification in the region.
Sparklo, a UAE-based cleantech company, has expanded its network of reverse vending machines (RVMs) across the MENA region, achieving 1000% growth and collecting over 50 million bottles. With strategic partnerships, Sparklo continues its mission to revolutionize recycling and promote sustainability through technology-driven solutions and incentives.
