Bayanat reported a 12% YoY revenue increase to AED113 million ($31 million) for Q1 2024, with a 9% growth in net profit. Key growth drivers included strong product offerings and strategic partnerships. The company emphasized significant investments in R&D and a strategic partnership with Microsoft to enhance AI services.
Bahrain has achieved a historic milestone with the successful launch of “Al Munther,” the nation’s first domestically designed satellite. Deployed aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the satellite features advanced AI, cybersecurity, and a special broadcast, marking a significant step in Bahrain’s space innovation and technological progress.
North Africa’s fiber broadband market saw significant growth in 2024, with Egypt maintaining its lead in broadband performance. Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia also made strides in expanding fiber coverage and improving speeds, boosting regional connectivity. Further efforts are needed to make broadband more affordable and accessible.
Oman’s Integrated Gas Company (IGC) has launched the Gas Applications Portal, streamlining the process for industries to manage natural gas requests. The platform enhances transparency, efficiency, and accessibility, supporting Oman’s Vision 2040 goals. It allows users to apply for gas allocations, track applications, and access information seamlessly.
Flowwow and Admitad have released a report on the MENA e-commerce and gifting markets, showing significant growth in 2024. The UAE and Saudi Arabia led the region in online orders, with a rise in average order values. The gifting market, especially flowers, saw remarkable growth, with Flowwow leading the surge.
Nepal is set to lift its nine-month ban on TikTok, following new regulatory changes. The government initially banned the app over social harmony concerns but now plans to reintroduce it with stricter guidelines. The move comes after TikTok pledged compliance with local regulations, addressing concerns while balancing user freedom and safety.
PayMint, an Egyptian fintech, has received approval from the Central Bank of Egypt to launch its Meeza prepaid card in collaboration with ADIB-Egypt. The card will allow users to make everyday transactions, with additional features available through PayMint’s mobile app, promoting financial inclusion and supporting Egypt’s paperless society vision.
In 2024, Jordan’s government service centres completed 882,583 electronic transactions, reflecting the success of the initiative to streamline public services. The centres, which offer multiple government services under one roof, utilize innovative technology to enhance accessibility and customer satisfaction, in line with King Abdullah’s vision for improved public services.
The PTA has partnered with DeafTawk to provide sign language interpretation services at PTA offices, promoting inclusivity for the deaf community in Pakistan. The collaboration includes the integration of AI-powered tools and online interpretation services, aiming to address communication challenges faced by over ten million deaf individuals in the country.
Zain has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kuwait University to promote the knowledge economy in Kuwait. This partnership will focus on enhancing innovation and digital skills among youth, supporting various initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration in science and technology for workforce readiness.
