Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Travelers in North Africa, particularly in Morocco and Tunisia, are increasingly adopting eSIM technology for seamless mobile data access without the need for physical SIM cards. This shift is transforming digital connectivity, offering greater convenience and flexibility for both local residents and international visitors.
PhonePe has partnered with PickMe to offer UPI-based payments for Indian travelers in Sri Lanka, enhancing convenience and security for tourists while supporting digital transformation in the country’s transportation sector.
Aramco Digital has forged strategic partnerships to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s AI ecosystem, aligning with the Vision 2030 goal of transitioning to a technology-driven economy. These collaborations focus on AI infrastructure, including the world’s largest inferencing data center, as the country aims to become a global AI leader.
A major telecom company’s decision to cut 125 jobs has sparked debate in Oman over responsible corporate restructuring and private-sector job security. Economists say the move highlights the need to balance efficiency with talent retention, skills development, and the broader signals such actions send to the national labour market.
Saudi Arabia will host the 19th United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh from December 15-19, under the theme “Building our Multistakeholder Digital Future.” The event will gather over 10,000 participants and focus on innovation, digital governance, human rights, and sustainability in the digital age.
Jordan and Kazakhstan are exploring a strategic partnership in digital innovation and the aviation industry. The Kazakh delegation, led by ministers from Kazakhstan, held discussions with Jordanian institutions on collaboration in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, space technologies, and UAV solutions, emphasizing bilateral cooperation to boost economic and technological growth.
The UAE marked 2025 with major advances in artificial intelligence, achieving near-universal AI adoption across government and launching global-scale infrastructure projects with the US and Europe. Record investments, sovereign AI models, and large data centres positioned the country as a leading global hub for AI, digital infrastructure, and cybersecurity.
The UAE is rapidly becoming a top choice for tech professionals, with 45% of surveyed tech workers in Asia ready to relocate there, surpassing Germany and Hong Kong. The UAE’s supportive government policies and high quality of life make it a prime destination for tech industry growth.
du has announced its 5G-Advanced strategy, aiming for nationwide UAE coverage by 2026. This strategy includes enhancing fintech services, launching next-gen Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), and expanding gaming and enterprise solutions. The 5G-A network will transform consumer and business experiences through AI-driven connectivity and innovative services.
du has launched the du Innovation Center to accelerate 5G and AI-powered solutions, aiming to drive innovation across consumer and enterprise sectors. The center will explore new commercial applications in 5G advanced, AI, and immersive technologies, aligning with the UAE’s vision to lead in digital transformation.