Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Etihad Airways will equip its fleet with 100 Mbps Wi-Fi within three years while reporting AED 1.1 billion profit in H1 2025. With fleet expansion, new routes, and over 1,700 new hires, Etihad is positioned for sustained growth and a potential IPO amid global industry challenges.
Khazna Data Centres has raised $2.62 billion in financing from ADCB and FAB to support expansion in MENA and global markets. With AI-ready facilities planned in the UAE and abroad, Khazna targets 1GW of capacity while doubling its role in the region’s growing data economy.
Vodafone Qatar has launched the TP-Link M8550 Wi-Fi 6E 5G MiFi, a high-speed portable hotspot with speeds up to 3.4 Gbps, support for 32 devices, and long battery life. Priced at QR1,299, it is available online and in select Vodafone Qatar stores.
Edotco Services Lanka has received Sri Lanka’s first neutral-host infrastructure licence, enabling it to expand 5G deployment and connectivity nationwide. The TRCSL licence supports stronger infrastructure sharing and investment, marking a key step in developing Sri Lanka’s digital ecosystem.
SDAIA’s Dr. Esam Al-Wagait emphasized Saudi Arabia’s global role in AI-driven digital transformation, citing platforms like Tawakkalna and Absher, Vision 2030’s National AI Strategy, and the Kingdom’s ODIN ranking progress. He stressed international partnerships and highlighted ICAIRE’s role in AI ethics and governance.
Saudi Arabia’s CST presented a global study at GSR25 showing that $2.6–2.8 trillion in investment is needed to bridge the digital divide by 2030. The initiative, part of the Connecting Humanity project with ITU, highlights the Kingdom’s leadership in digital inclusion and sustainable development.
Saudi Arabia’s National Greening Program has launched a mobile lab to support its tree-planting drive. The lab provides real-time environmental data to boost afforestation success, cut costs, and help rehabilitate 40 million hectares of land under Vision 2030.
UNESCO and Data Vault hosted a dialogue on Pakistan’s AI policy, focusing on ethical and inclusive governance. Experts stressed the need for AI skills, digital infrastructure, and safeguards to transform Pakistan’s demographic advantage into a sustainable, rights-based digital future.
Jazz Business has partnered exclusively with Mechrevo to provide advanced enterprise IT hardware in Pakistan. The initiative will deliver desktops, laptops, and accessories nationwide, strengthening Jazz’s position as a full-spectrum ICT enabler and driving digital adoption for enterprises and institutions.
Omantel has partnered with Serb to expand access to drones in Oman through installment-based purchases and licensing. The collaboration supports safe drone use, empowers youth innovation, and strengthens Oman’s leadership in digital transformation and drone technology.