IT spending in the MENA region is projected to reach $193.7 billion in 2024, a 5.2% increase from 2023. Growth is driven by IT services, while data centre investments decline. GenAI’s immediate impact is limited, but cloud services spending is set to rise, with a focus on cost-effective use cases.
Vodafone Qatar offers Voice and Mobile Broadband (MBB) plan customers who sign up for Auto-Pay a chance to win a QR5,000 voucher. The Auto-Pay service ensures automatic bill payments, providing convenience and security. Customers also receive 5GB extra data with each bill payment.
Libya’s Telecommunications Holding Company and Italian Post have agreed to enhance Libyan postal services, focusing on postal, logistical, and digital financial services, and training personnel. An executive cooperation agreement will establish joint working teams for initiatives and projects.
Zain Omantel International (ZOI) joins One Consortium to combat international telecom fraud, aligning with its commitment to integrity and customer-centricity. As a voting member, ZOI will help develop solutions and standards to enhance trust in telecommunications across the Middle East and globally.
As the Middle East continues to advance its broadband infrastructure, the potential for a fully connected, high-speed future seems imminent.
Dubai has appointed 22 Chief AI Officers across government entities to lead AI-enabled government operations, as part of the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence (DUB.AI), aiming to establish the emirate as a global leader in AI innovation.
Yahsat awarded a $1.1 billion contract to Airbus to build geostationary satellites Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5, launching in 2027 and 2028. These satellites will enhance UAE’s satellite communications and support digital transformation. Airbus will design, manufacture, and provide ground control components.
CST has qualified Aramco Digital for a Specialized Radio Network License in the 450 MHz band, aiming to serve industrial and business sectors with advanced wireless technologies, supporting digital transformation and enabling 4th industrial revolution applications and IIoT.
Tunisia plans to launch 5G by November 2024, leveraging South Korea’s expertise. This initiative aims to accelerate digital transformation across sectors like agriculture, education, and transport, aligning with Tunisia’s National Digital Transformation Strategy 2025. The launch will facilitate smart technologies and enhance digital services.
Telecommunications subscriptions in the UAE rose to 27.09 million by March’s end, with mobile subscriptions at 78.1%, active mobile users at 21.15 million, and broadband internet and fixed-line services also seeing significant growth.
