Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
QNB has become the first bank in the GCC to enable unified digital wallet acceptance via Mastercard Gateway hosted checkout. The integration simplifies merchant onboarding, accelerates e-commerce adoption, and enhances secure digital payments, reinforcing QNB’s leadership in payment innovation and Mastercard’s vision for an inclusive digital economy.
Qatar’s CRA participated in the 31st GCC meeting on post and telecom in Kuwait, focusing on cooperation, digital transformation, and sustainable development. CRA President Ahmad bin Abdulla AlMuslemani reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to GCC integration and advancing the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Zain Jordan, through Zain Innovation Campus (ZINC), has funded AI-powered edtech platform UNIFLIX with 15,000 JOD and a year of logistical support under its “Zain Al-Mubadara” program. The initiative highlights Zain’s role in accelerating digital transformation, supporting startups, and boosting Jordan’s innovation-driven economy.
Jordan has launched the pilot of its e-passport system, starting September 1, as part of its National Digital Transformation Strategy 2026–2028. The e-passport includes biometric chips, advanced security, and faster processing, aligning with ICAO standards while transforming government services into a modern, efficient, and citizen-centric model.
Jordan has launched consultations on its 2026–2028 National Digital Transformation Strategy, focusing on digital infrastructure, e-government, and digital identity adoption. With the Sanad e-ID gaining traction in banking, the strategy aims to boost inclusion, trust, and innovation while preparing the country for an AI-powered digital economy.
First Iraqi Bank (FIB) has launched Iraq’s first App-in-App project, enabling businesses to integrate directly into its platform. The initiative advances the bank’s vision of building Iraq’s first Super App, combining modern digital banking with compliance to Islamic finance principles.
Suplyd has raised $2M in pre-Series A funding to accelerate its restaurant procurement platform in Egypt. The startup, now serving 5,000+ restaurants, streamlines fragmented supply chains with tech-driven solutions. Investors see Suplyd as a category-defining player in Egypt’s $10B+ HORECA market.
Barwa Developments has signed an MoU with Telecom Egypt to equip its projects with smart communication infrastructure and digital solutions. The collaboration strengthens Barwa’s integrated development strategy, enhances investment value, and positions Telecom Egypt as a key partner in powering Egypt’s real estate sector with advanced smart city technologies.
Bangladesh’s financial sector faces escalating cyber risks as experts warn of underinvestment, skills shortages, and systemic flaws. With only 5% of banking IT budgets devoted to security and millions of identities already leaked online, urgent reforms, national collaboration, and dedicated institutions are needed to secure the country’s digital future.
Bahrain has launched its National AI Policy alongside the GCC Ethical AI Manual to foster innovation, improve public services, and ensure responsible adoption of AI. The policy focuses on economic growth, transparency, and talent development, positioning Bahrain as a Gulf leader in ethical AI governance and sustainable digital transformation.