Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia’s National Greening Program has launched a mobile lab to support its tree-planting drive. The lab provides real-time environmental data to boost afforestation success, cut costs, and help rehabilitate 40 million hectares of land under Vision 2030.
UNESCO and Data Vault hosted a dialogue on Pakistan’s AI policy, focusing on ethical and inclusive governance. Experts stressed the need for AI skills, digital infrastructure, and safeguards to transform Pakistan’s demographic advantage into a sustainable, rights-based digital future.
Jazz Business has partnered exclusively with Mechrevo to provide advanced enterprise IT hardware in Pakistan. The initiative will deliver desktops, laptops, and accessories nationwide, strengthening Jazz’s position as a full-spectrum ICT enabler and driving digital adoption for enterprises and institutions.
Omantel has partnered with Serb to expand access to drones in Oman through installment-based purchases and licensing. The collaboration supports safe drone use, empowers youth innovation, and strengthens Oman’s leadership in digital transformation and drone technology.
King Mohammed VI has appointed General Abdellah Boutrik as head of Morocco’s DGSSI, strengthening the nation’s cyber defence capabilities. The move underscores digital security as a top national priority, with Boutrik tasked to lead an updated cybersecurity strategy amid rising attacks and infrastructure vulnerabilities.
Ooredoo Kuwait has partnered with online retailer WiBi to integrate Nojoom loyalty points into its e-commerce platform. Customers can now redeem points for electronics, enjoy exclusive bundles, and benefit from a seamless shopping experience, reinforcing Ooredoo’s vision as a lifestyle brand.
Nigel Farage joined U.S. conservatives at a House Judiciary Committee hearing to attack the U.K.’s Online Safety Act and EU tech laws, calling them authoritarian. The session, led by Jim Jordan, drew criticism in Britain and Washington, exposing deep divides over digital regulation and free speech.
Mastercard has teamed up with Jordan’s Zain Cash to expand digital payments, launch SME-focused solutions, and establish an Innovation Hub for new technologies. The partnership leverages Zain Cash’s prepaid market leadership and Mastercard’s global network to accelerate financial inclusion and transaction growth in Jordan.
Streameast, the world’s largest illegal sports streaming platform, has been shut down after a year-long investigation by ACE and Egyptian authorities. Two men were arrested, millions in illicit funds traced, and domains seized, marking a major global victory in the fight against piracy.
Basata Holding will invest $7 million in 2026 while preparing new investment services and regional expansion into Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and Kurdistan. The company, already serving over 120,000 merchants, aims to reach 150,000 this year and strengthen its leadership in Egypt’s fast-growing digital payments sector.