Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Akurateco and DineroPay have partnered to advance mobile payments in Saudi Arabia. By implementing Apple Pay, Google Pay, and network tokenization technology, the collaboration aims to enhance security and scalability in mobile transactions, aligning with regulatory requirements and supporting the region’s transition toward digital-first financial solutions.
Salam has been recognized as the fastest growing telecom brand in Saudi Arabia for 2024 at the 5th Annual Business Tabloid Awards. The company’s strategic initiatives, including fiber optic network sales and global cybersecurity partnerships, underscore its role in driving Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation aligned with Vision 2030.
Qatar has launched the 2024 Digital Inclusion Index to ensure equal access to digital services for all members of society. The report highlights the country’s progress in digital infrastructure and skills development, with goals to further improve digital access, competencies, and trust by 2030, aligning with Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030.
Easypaisa has become Pakistan’s first digital retail bank after receiving commercial approval from the State Bank of Pakistan. Supported by Telenor and Alipay, Easypaisa has evolved from a mobile wallet service to a full-fledged digital bank, with 50 million registered users and a significant role in the country’s financial inclusion.
Pakistan faces potential losses of $1.8 billion (Rs 500 billion) in GDP due to unsold spectrum in the upcoming auction, attributed to high reserve prices. The GSMA urges more affordable pricing to avoid delays in the country’s 5G rollout, which could impact digital infrastructure and mobile data services.
Oman will release a revised national AI policy in early 2025, incorporating sector developments and feedback. The updated policy will drive AI development and safeguard national interests. The government aims to increase the digital economy’s contribution to GDP and develop an Omani large language model and AI studio.
UM6P and STATION F have launched the NextAfrica program to support startups focused on Greentech, Agritech, and Healthtech. This collaboration aims to bridge Europe and Africa, providing mentorship, funding, and resources to international startups looking to enter African markets. The program will foster innovation and address key regional challenges.
Maroc Telecom’s debt surged by 6.6 billion MAD, making it the most indebted company on the Casablanca Stock Exchange. This increase, driven by a legal dispute resolution, contributed to a 17% rise in net debt among non-financial companies. The report also highlighted growth in turnover and investments across sectors.
VA Tech Wabag has secured a $14 million contract from BAPCO Refining for the operation and maintenance of an Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant in Bahrain. The seven-year contract emphasizes WABAG’s technological excellence and strengthens its presence in the region’s water treatment sector, using advanced Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology.
Zain Jordan has implemented an AI-powered chatbot platform using OpenAI’s LLM and OCR technology to improve document management efficiency. The platform allows employees to quickly retrieve data from both digital and scanned documents, saving time, reducing costs, and increasing accuracy, while driving digital transformation within the organization.