Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Numou has launched in Abu Dhabi, offering a digital lending marketplace designed to streamline financing for SMEs. The platform allows businesses to apply for loans through a single online form, connecting them with multiple lenders and ensuring transparency. Numou aims to empower SMEs and boost Abu Dhabi’s digital economy.
The “Abikhdmh” app has raised SAR 3 million in Seed funding to enhance its e-transaction services and expand into areas such as flight bookings, business services, and recruitment solutions. This investment will strengthen its platform and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by advancing digital transformation in the country.
Saudi Arabia has launched Samsung Pay, integrated with the national mada payment network, offering a secure and seamless mobile payment solution. This move supports the country’s Vision 2030 goals of advancing digital infrastructure and financial inclusion. The service includes advanced security features and is part of broader fintech regulations by SAMA.
Temu has partnered with Asyad Express to improve delivery services in Oman, enhancing fulfillment processes and offering a new cash-on-delivery option. This collaboration aims to streamline logistics, reduce costs, and support the growth of Oman’s digital economy, aligning with the country’s broader economic and digital transformation goals.
Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), in collaboration with the Digital Cooperation Organization, World Economic Forum, and Ministry of Commerce, hosted a workshop to boost foreign direct investment (FDI) in the digital economy. Discussions focused on enhancing investment policies and expanding Omani companies’ global presence.
Ericsson hosted its Technology Days in Morocco, showcasing the potential of 5G to transform various sectors, including sports and manufacturing. The event featured live demonstrations of AI-enhanced network performance, real-time sports engagement, and 5G monetization. This aligns with Morocco’s Digital Morocco 2030 vision and 5G launch plans.
PayTabs has partnered with Concept Combined Group Kuwait to launch PayTabs Kuwait, aiming to expand digital payment services in the country. The initiative will offer advanced payment solutions, focusing on SMEs, and align with Kuwait’s economic vision for 2035 by improving digital infrastructure and meeting growing demand for secure payment processing.
The National Center for Human Rights, in partnership with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, held a discussion in Amman on digital technologies and human rights in the MENA region. The event emphasized the need for national institutions to balance innovation with the protection of digital rights and freedoms.
Egypt’s four telecommunication companies have agreed to new quality penalty mechanisms that hold operators accountable for meeting service standards. Financial penalties will be reinvested into network improvements, particularly in underserved areas, to enhance nationwide mobile service quality and boost Egypt’s standing in international telecom rankings.
Bangladesh ranks behind nine out of 12 lower-middle-income countries in smartphone ownership and mobile internet usage, according to the GSMA’s “The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2024” report. Challenges such as digital literacy, safety concerns, and affordability limit mobile internet access, despite growing awareness.