Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The PTA, in collaboration with NCCIA, raided a telecom franchise in Islamabad involved in illegal SIM issuance. Authorities seized 30,000 SIMs, six BVS devices, and arrested two individuals. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat SIM-related fraud and misuse of biometric verification systems.
Nepal Telecom is set to shut down its 2G network on the 1800 MHz band, focusing on expanding its 4G infrastructure. This decision follows the company’s significant 4G growth, with 1.64 crore users. While 2G will remain on the 900 MHz band, the shift aims to improve 4G service and prepare for 5G.
The UNESCO MIL Youth Hackathon highlighted the achievements of Jordan’s Youth Media Literacy Ambassadors Program (YMLAP), which won for its impactful community-based projects. This initiative empowers Jordanian youth to combat misinformation and promote media literacy, fostering a more informed and resilient society in the digital age.
The Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU) is embracing artificial intelligence to enhance digital media capabilities. Saad Nafel Al-Azmi highlighted the growing interest in AI during a recent meeting, emphasizing the Union’s commitment to innovation, including training programs and competitions to advance new media in the Arab world.
Ooredoo Qatar has partnered with Nokia to modernize its core network, integrating AI, machine learning, and 5G standalone capabilities. The deal will enhance network performance, support ultra-low latency services, and enable real-time industrial automation and high-quality gaming experiences. Nokia’s solutions also optimize efficiency, capacity, and energy consumption.
The UAE’s technology sector is set for record growth in 2025, driven by advancements in digital innovation and emerging technologies. With strong government support and investments in digital infrastructure, the country is becoming a global hub for tech companies. Growth is expected to continue through 2029, with a steady market expansion.
Reem Finance has partnered with Temenos to launch a digital community bank in the UAE, utilizing Temenos’ cloud-based core banking platform. This collaboration aims to drive innovation, streamline operations, and deliver seamless banking services to retail and corporate customers, enhancing financial inclusion and positioning Reem Finance for future growth in the sector.
The UAE Ministry of Education will introduce AI as a mandatory subject in public schools starting in 2025. The curriculum aims to equip students from kindergarten to Grade 12 with essential AI skills, focusing on ethics, real-world applications, and innovation, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a tech-driven future.
Oman’s Telecom Regulation Authority (TRA) has revealed that 86% of children use the Internet, with initiatives being implemented to protect them from online threats. These include parental control features and partnerships with UNICEF. A proposed law will further regulate children’s Internet usage.
KLK Foundation has partnered with Mystiko Network to integrate Zero-Knowledge (ZK) technology into blockchain, aiming to solve scalability and interoperability challenges. This collaboration is backed by investors like Sequoia Capital and Samsung Next, positioning both companies to drive major advancements in the Web3 space and decentralized finance.