Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language has launched the Arabic Language Innovation Accelerator to support startups and entrepreneurs. The program will help enhance digital Arabic content, providing training, mentorship, and access to a network of investors. Applications are open until February 5, with a launch on April 7.
Pakistan’s delayed telecom spectrum allocation could cost up to $4.3 billion in GDP losses by 2030, warns GSMA. The telecom body urges fair pricing in the 2025 auction to avoid hindering digital growth and 5G development, emphasizing the need for sustainable policies and infrastructure-focused approaches.
Algeria and Oman have launched digital platforms to improve parental access to student performance information. Algeria’s “Espace des Parents d’Elèves” and Oman’s “Wilaya’s App” allow parents to monitor academic progress and examination results easily, enhancing communication between schools and families and fostering greater involvement in education.
stc Group has become the largest telecom operator in MENA with a market capitalization of $57.7 billion. The company’s growth was driven by a 7.9% rise in mobile subscribers and a 2% increase in net profit. Additionally, stc launched Saudi Arabia’s first licensed digital financial institution, STC Bank.
Tawasol Integrated Telecom and Oman Data Park have partnered to launch Trend Vision One SPC (V1SPC), an advanced cybersecurity solution featuring extended detection and response (XDR). The initiative, aligned with Oman Vision 2040, aims to enhance security maturity and digital resilience, strengthening Oman’s cybersecurity infrastructure and digital future.
SecurityPal, a Kathmandu-based startup, helps tech companies streamline security questionnaires using a combination of AI and human expertise. The company has grown rapidly, reaching $10 million in revenue and securing major clients like Airtable and Figma. SecurityPal aims to build a tech hub in Nepal while providing competitive salaries and opportunities.
Huawei will build a $3.5 million data center for Nepal Telecom in Kathmandu and Bhairahawa. The project will modernize Nepal Telecom’s data handling capabilities and improve service efficiency. Huawei will manage the physical infrastructure, with the data center expected to boost the telecom’s income and support its digital transformation.
UM6P and STATION F have launched the NextAfrica program to bridge Europe and Africa, supporting startups in Greentech, Agritech, and Healthtech sectors. The partnership provides mentorship, funding, and scientific expertise to help startups enter the African market, with access to resources from both STATION F and UM6P’s campus in Morocco.
Thales has partnered with Lebanon to modernize border control systems at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport. The new system, incorporating advanced biometric and document verification technologies, aims to enhance security and streamline passenger movement. This collaboration aligns with Lebanon’s broader efforts to improve border security and meet international standards.
Orange Jordan successfully concluded its intensive online training program at the Orange Digital Centers, providing participants with essential digital, entrepreneurial, and personal skills. The four-week program covered topics such as AI, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and freelancing, empowering participants to adapt to the digital age and enhance career opportunities.