Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
EdVentures has invested in LRNOVA, backing its AI-powered platform that digitises curricula into interactive learning content with Arabic and cultural localisation. The deal positions LRNOVA for Gulf expansion and reflects a shift toward applied AI in MENA edtech, with institutional adoption as the key growth lever.
Egypt has unveiled plans to increase AI’s share of GDP to 7.7% by 2030 under its National AI Strategy. The program includes training 30,000 AI specialists, fostering 250 startups, expanding mobile manufacturing, and boosting outsourcing exports, positioning Egypt as a regional hub for AI, ICT, and innovation.
IPv4 leasing is emerging as a critical strategy for telecom operators in Asia, balancing immediate network demands with long-term IPv6 transition. IPXO’s automated platform and Next Gen IPAM reduce costs, streamline operations, and improve security—helping operators scale sustainably while generating new revenue opportunities.
Delivery Hero has priced Talabat’s IPO at AED 1.60 per share, raising $2 billion in Dubai’s biggest tech listing of the year. The offering values Talabat at $10.2 billion, reflecting strong investor demand, and cements its position as the Middle East’s leading food delivery and quick-commerce platform.
Zain Bahrain has partnered with Ericsson to deploy advanced RAN solutions, including Massive MIMO radios, to expand network capacity and improve coverage. The upgrade will optimize 4G and 5G performance, enhance customer experiences, and support Bahrain’s digital transformation through modern, sustainable infrastructure.
Dhiraagu hosted the SEA-ME-WE 6 Global Consortium Meeting in Maldives, uniting top telecom providers to advance the submarine cable project linking Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The initiative will boost global connectivity, provide Maldives with direct international access, and drive the nation’s digital and economic transformation.
Network International has partnered with Libya’s National Union Bank to advance digital payments. The fintech will provide prepaid card issuance, fraud prevention, and managed services under its Digital Payments as a Service model, supporting NUB’s digital transformation and Libya’s broader financial inclusion goals.
Saudi Arabia has unveiled new digital payment initiatives with Ant International, Google Pay, and Thunes. Key moves include cross-border QR payments via Alipay+ in 2026, Google Pay integration with the mada system, and real-time remittance services through barq and Thunes, advancing Vision 2030 goals of inclusivity and financial innovation.
Sauda Musharrat, a Computer Engineering student at AIUB, received the Digital Bangladesh Award for her essay “Vision 2041: An Affordable Real-time Patient Monitoring System for Underprivileged Hospitals.” Organized by a2i, the nationwide competition recognized her innovative idea to strengthen healthcare access for underprivileged communities in Bangladesh.
Algeria’s new Interior and Transport Minister, Saïd Sayoud, held his first high-level meeting to evaluate the transport sector. He praised progress in maritime, air, and rail transport but pressed for urgent improvements in land transport. Sayoud urged collective action, efficiency, and innovation to strengthen mobility and connectivity nationwide.