The State Bank of Pakistan’s Q3 FY 2023-24 report shows digital transactions comprising 83% of total retail payments, with 844 million transactions worth PKR 128,470 billion processed by banks and EMIs. Mobile and internet banking saw significant growth, and Raast processed 140 million transactions worth PKR 3,437 billion, highlighting rapid digital adoption.
Ooredoo has partnered with talabat, integrating the leading food delivery app into its Nojoom loyalty programme. This collaboration enhances convenience for customers, allowing them to earn and redeem points on talabat services. The partnership aims to improve customer experience while offering exclusive rewards through innovative technology.
Salam and MADA have formed a strategic partnership to enhance messaging services in Saudi Arabia, focusing on A2P messaging, two-factor authentication, and automated notifications. The partnership aims to improve digital service delivery, meet increasing demand, and align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, driving innovation and customer experience.
Careem Pay has launched a new remittance service for UAE residents, allowing direct transfers to bank accounts in Egypt. The service offers competitive rates, quick transactions, and benefits for Careem Plus members. This expansion supports the UAE’s digital financial inclusion goals and addresses the needs of the Egyptian expatriate community.
The Oman Shura Council has referred the Telecommunications and IT Regulation Law to the State Council for further review, aiming to modernize the sector’s regulatory framework. The session also saw approvals for maritime transport agreements and initiatives for World Heritage site development and enhanced personal communication channels.
Orange Jordan is enhancing educational opportunities in Palestine by funding Jusoor Labs, a startup providing interactive educational content. This initiative is part of Orange’s efforts to support digital transformation and foster regional development through strategic partnerships and innovative educational technologies.
Bahrain’s Taqyeem Committee, led by iGA Chief Executive Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, reviewed the results of the 5th round of government services evaluation (Taqyeem 5). The meeting discussed findings from 64 service centres, focusing on digital transformation, innovation, and customer satisfaction in government service delivery.
Bahrain’s UNDP and Derasat are collaborating on a National Human Development Report to enhance digital transformation. The report will provide a roadmap for bridging the digital divide, boosting cybersecurity, and integrating technology into public services to support inclusive growth aligned with Bahrain Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Bahrain will host the 6th International Space Forum at Ministerial Level – The Gulf Chapter (ISF 2024), the first in the MENA region, supported by the IAF and ISA. The event will discuss the future of space exploration, highlighting Bahrain’s and the GCC’s advancements in space science and technology.
Visa has introduced several digital payment innovations in Qatar, including the launch of ‘Click to Pay’, a biometric-enhanced solution, in line with Qatar’s National Vision 2030. These initiatives aim to boost digital payment adoption, support the fintech sector, and facilitate secure, user-friendly financial services for both consumers and businesses in the country.
