Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia’s Absher platform processed over 43 million transactions in July 2025, including 40.6M through Absher Individuals and 2.7M through Absher Business. With 28M unified digital identities issued, Absher strengthens access to 500+ entities via Nafath, reinforcing its role in the Kingdom’s digital transformation.
South Korea’s Rebellion has set up a subsidiary in Riyadh to expand its AI semiconductor business in the Middle East. Backed by a $14.4M investment from Saudi Aramco’s Wa’id Ventures, the startup plans to deepen collaborations with Aramco and Saudi telecom firms, supporting Vision 2030’s digital transformation agenda.
Qatar’s MCIT and GTA have released a white paper on the Dhareeba portal, highlighting efficiency gains and time savings since its 2020 launch. The platform simplifies tax services and supports Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030, reinforcing the country’s vision of becoming a global leader in digital governance.
Oman and Egypt have signed a private-sector energy partnership to boost expertise exchange, technology transfer, and sustainable product development. The agreement aims to serve local, regional, and international markets while reinforcing bilateral cooperation in innovation and infrastructure development.
Omantel Group posted a 46% surge in net profit to RO161.1mn in H1 2025, supported by strong EBITDA, investment income, and 9.5% revenue growth across multiple regional markets. Domestic revenue rose 8%, but higher depreciation costs weighed on local profits as the company pushed ahead with its TechCo strategy and network expansion.
Oman has hosted the inaugural Firnas Summit, showcasing drone innovation with DJI’s regional launch of the Matrice 400. Led by the Ibn Firnas Drone Centre, the summit highlighted Oman’s ambition to be a regional drone hub, aligning with Vision 2040 and advancing smart cities, AI, and digital transformation.
Turkey is set to raise at least $2.1B through a 5G spectrum auction offering 400 MHz in the 700 MHz and 3.5 GHz bands. The move, targeting faster internet and nationwide rollout, comes as 2G, 3G, and 4.5G licenses near expiry in 2029, with 94M mobile users driving demand.
Airattix has expanded into Nepal, bringing AI-powered storage and fulfilment solutions to an import-reliant and fragmented logistics market. With 30% quarterly growth, industry recognition, and a scalable digital-first model, the company is set to transform storage, relocation, and e-commerce fulfilment across South Asia.
Nepal has signed a strategic agreement with TikTok to promote its tourism through the “Lifetime Experiences” campaign. The initiative will feature Nepal’s culture, landscapes, and adventure on a global stage while empowering local creators, marking a pivotal shift in how the country leverages digital storytelling for travel promotion.
Talabat, through its sponsorship of Academy X, celebrated the graduation of the second cohort of young women trained in AI, coding, and entrepreneurship. The initiative, led by CODED Academy, aligns with Kuwait Vision 2035 and reflects talabat’s long-term commitment to empowering female talent and driving digital innovation.