Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt’s “Shaping AI Horizon” forum focused on the National AI Strategy (2025-2030), aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and technology investment. Key pillars include AI infrastructure, talent development, and regulatory frameworks. ITIDA and 500 Global are collaborating to address AI skill shortages and promote innovation within Egypt’s AI ecosystem.
Jeel and zypl.ai’s collaboration leverages innovative AI and synthetic data technologies to enhance fraud prevention, credit accuracy, and payment efficiency, fueling fintech innovation aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
MyMonty and Mastercard collaborate to expand digital payment adoption in Lebanon, enhancing security and convenience for users while supporting the country’s transition to a cashless digital economy.
Microsoft Africa and Zindi have partnered to enhance AI skills across the continent, aiming to equip young Africans for future workforce demands. Additionally, Zimbabwe focuses on lithium battery refineries for clean energy, while China invests in Algeria’s infrastructure with the completion of the Bejaia highway project.
Pakistan and China have agreed to enhance cooperation in digital technology, AI, and ICT development. During a key meeting, both countries discussed collaboration on e-governance, smart cities, and educational opportunities. China pledged support for Pakistan’s digital growth, including ICT infrastructure development and AI advancements.
Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has enhanced its Mobile App with new features, including UPI transfers to India, Mobile Wallet Payments to Egypt, and EDAA NIN & IBAN linking for dividend payments. These updates provide greater convenience, control, and security for customers, making QIB’s app a comprehensive digital banking solution.
Turner & Townsend will manage project and cost services for du’s new 20,000 sqm hyperscale data centre in Dubai. The high-tech, LEED Gold-targeted facility will boost cloud and AI infrastructure, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading global hub for digital innovation.
CMC Networks has named Mahesh Jaishankar as Managing Director, tasking him with leading the company’s strategy around AI-driven connectivity across Africa and the Middle East. Backed by his leadership experience at Google, du, and Arthur D Little, Jaishankar’s appointment follows center3’s 2024 acquisition of CMC and signals a bold push into AIOps-led innovation.
Huawei concluded the 2024-2025 Middle East and Central Asia ICT Competition in Riyadh, celebrating regional talent across Cloud, Network, Computing, and Innovation tracks. The event recognized exceptional student teams from Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan, with winners advancing to the global finals in Shenzhen, China, in May 2025.
Sabina Maskey steps in as the acting head of Nepal Telecom amid a corruption investigation targeting the former leadership and associated foreign entities. The move aims to restore governance and accountability within the state-owned telecom company.