Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan will hold separate 5G spectrum auctions for Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK after the national rollout. PTA favours free spectrum allocation in these regions to boost infrastructure investment, alongside reforms to remove right-of-way charges and streamline approvals.
Robi Axiata posted a record Tk 9.37bn profit in 2025, up 33% year-on-year, driven by data growth and lower operating costs. Subscriber base reached 57.4m, with 99% 4G coverage and a 17.5% cash dividend declared.
A Kaspersky report shows 70% of UAE firms plan to deploy AI-driven security operations centres to counter AI-powered cyber threats. Companies expect AI to enhance threat detection and automate responses, despite challenges related to talent shortages and integration costs.
e& UAE has partnered with Aster Pharmacy to deploy the ‘Pharmacy in a Box’ solution, providing advanced digital infrastructure to streamline operations, enhance customer experience and support expansion across existing and new outlets.
Scopely will acquire a majority stake in Turkey’s Loom Games in a milestone-based deal worth up to $1bn. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s PIF, the move expands the kingdom’s gaming strategy and strengthens its presence in global mobile game development.
Saudi Arabia is reportedly seeking to route the East to Med Data Corridor through Syria instead of Israel, reflecting shifting regional alignments and growing focus on alternative connectivity corridors linking the Gulf to Europe.
Raqami Islamic Digital Bank has launched as Pakistan’s first fully Islamic digital bank operating entirely on JazzWorld’s Tier III-certified Garaj domestic cloud, setting a benchmark for secure, scalable and regulation-compliant cloud-based financial services.
PTA reaffirmed its commitment to fair tariffs and improved mobile services under the Mobile Tariff Regulations 2025. The regulator highlighted upcoming spectrum investment, strict consent rules for value-added services and accessible complaint channels to protect consumer rights.
Oman’s Tahawul programme reached a 94% performance rate in 2025, with 90% of priority services digitised and strong institutional performance. Over 2.26bn data exchanges were processed, while digital identity and SME participation expanded significantly.
Oman has expanded fibre, 5G and satellite connectivity across schools, reaching 100% internet coverage and over 97% fibre/5G penetration. Satellite solutions support remote areas, while national fibre and fixed 5G subscriptions have surged, strengthening the country’s digital education ecosystem.