Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
BAGHDAD: Iraq is preparing to significantly expand its national fiber-optic internet rollout after a recent population census revealed that more than eight million homes were excluded from earlier plans, according to the Ministry of Communications.
Egypt is preparing to launch a new Maspero digital platform as part of a major media sector overhaul aimed at monetising archives, strengthening social media presence, and restructuring state-owned channels for long-term sustainability.
Egypt plans to increase local mobile phone production to 15 million units next year and begin exports, as part of a broader ICT strategy focused on manufacturing, digital exports, skills development, and infrastructure expansion.
Bahrain ranked 15th globally and second regionally in the World Bank’s 2025 GovTech Maturity Index, achieving a “very high digital maturity” score of 93.6 percent. The results highlight strong eGovernment performance, citizen engagement, and advanced digital infrastructure supporting national development goals.
Bahrain has approved Satellite Direct-to-Device services, becoming the first GCC country to allow smartphones to connect directly to LEO satellites. The move aims to eliminate coverage gaps across land and sea, strengthen digital resilience, and reinforce Bahrain’s position as a regional connectivity leader.
Saquib Ahmad has joined Systems Limited as Global Chief Growth Officer, bringing over 27 years of telecom and IT leadership experience. He will lead international growth and strategic expansion, drawing on senior roles at SAP, Oracle, and Nokia Siemens Networks across multiple global markets.
Nigeria added 2.1 million new telecom subscriptions in November 2025, driven largely by MTN and Airtel, which together control over 85 per cent of the market. The rebound followed earlier subscriber losses linked to SIM-NIN enforcement and signals renewed momentum in the mobile-first sector.
India crossed one billion broadband subscribers in November 2025, driven by a decade of rapid digital expansion, strong telecom policy, and nationwide infrastructure rollout. TRAI data shows broadband users increased more than sixfold, supported by 5G deployment, rising data usage, and initiatives like National Broadband Mission 2.0.
Iran repelled a highly sophisticated cyberattack targeting telecom-linked national infrastructure, according to its ICT minister. The two-phase attack was contained using both external and domestic capabilities, highlighting Iran’s cybersecurity resilience despite ongoing international sanctions.
PTCL’s merged Ufone-Telenor entity plans to participate in Pakistan’s 5G auction, focusing on spectrum optimisation and network expansion. The integration aims to strengthen digital services while assuring workforce continuity during the transition period.