Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Kuwait’s Communications Minister Omar Al-Omar and Qatar’s Minister of Communications Mohammad Al-Mannai met at the AI Action Summit in Paris to discuss strengthening cooperation in AI, digital technology, and communications. They focused on regional digital transformation, innovation, and the role of AI in sustainable development and international collaboration.
stc has achieved 100% compliance with the GSMA’s signalling security guidelines, making it one of the few telecom operators globally to do so. In partnership with Enea, stc has implemented robust security measures to protect its network from data leaks, unauthorized tracking, and communication interception.
Oxagon, the industrial hub of NEOM, has made significant strides in 2024, combining sustainability, innovation, and advanced technology to set new benchmarks in logistics and manufacturing. Its efforts, including renewable energy integration and cutting-edge AI, are in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming for eco-friendly, efficient industrial development.
PayTabs has partnered with Concept Combined Group Kuwait to launch PayTabs Kuwait, aiming to enhance digital payment services in the country. The initiative will provide secure and efficient payment solutions, particularly for SMEs, and support Kuwait’s digital transformation goals under the ‘New Kuwait 2035’ vision.
Omani startup Sirius has developed an AI-powered device to aid communication for the deaf and mute. The device, featuring smart glasses, a smartwatch, and a digital app, won a silver medal at the Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions. It has attracted international investor interest and is set for large-scale production.
Tanzania and Kenya have launched a new terrestrial fibre link connecting Dar es Salaam and Mombasa, enhancing regional digital resilience, cross-border trade, and e-commerce, while promoting collaboration on digital policy and security frameworks.
Bangladesh has improved its global mobile internet speed ranking, moving up to 88th place in November 2024. The country’s mobile internet download speed increased to 28.26 Mbps, with Banglalink emerging as the fastest provider. Bangladesh also saw progress in fixed broadband performance, rising to 99th globally.
Sabic reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable growth at the Boao Forum for Asia 2025, emphasizing the importance of innovation, collaboration, and cross-regional partnerships. The company highlighted its investments in China, including a new petrochemical complex and plans for an engineering thermoplastics plant, and discussed the chemical industry’s role in the energy transition.
The 5th Diplomatic Connect in Riyadh, co-hosted by the DCO and Kuwaiti Embassy, showcased how digital tools sustain services and empower communities during crises. Leaders emphasized agile cooperation, digital inclusion, and innovation as drivers of peace, resilience, and trust, with Kuwait steering the DCO presidency in 2025.
e& is exiting its joint venture, Khazna Data Centres, by selling its 40% stake to Group 42 for $2.2 billion. The move aligns with e&’s asset monetisation strategy to reduce debt and focus on core businesses. The transaction is expected to finalize by the end of Q1 2025.