Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Oman has launched a new Social Protection Fund (SPF) e-portal to enhance electronic governance. Employers can now verify expatriate worker data, update wages, and manage employee information efficiently. This initiative aligns with Oman’s digital transformation strategy, aiming to streamline operations and ensure accurate data management across government and private sectors.
Wasoko and MaxAB, two of Africa’s top B2B e-commerce companies, have completed the continent’s largest tech merger, forming a pan-African digital retail platform. The merger combines their expertise across multiple countries, creating a multi-vertical ecosystem serving Africa’s $600 billion informal retail sector, with extensive offerings in e-commerce, fintech, and AI-driven services.
Egypt’s Ministries of Communications and Information Technology and Culture have signed an agreement to digitize over 11,300 National Library books for the “Egypt Digital Heritage” platform. This initiative aims to enhance Egypt’s digital cultural content and expand access to the nation’s rich heritage through modern technology.
Kuwait’s CITRA is preparing for the rollout of the 5G Advanced network by introducing new frequencies and phasing out 3G services by June 2025. The upgrade will enhance digital services, support modern applications like IoT and AI, and expand mobile network capacity, positioning Kuwait as a leader in advanced technology adoption.
Jordan’s Alzheimer’s Patients’ Aid Society, under HRH Princess Muna Al Hussein’s patronage, launched “Eye Locate,” a pioneering iris recognition technology to help locate and reunite dementia patients who wander from home. Developed with Public Security, IrisGuard, and NatHealth, this initiative enhances public safety and offers hope to affected families.
Samsung Electronics plans to establish Egypt as a regional hub for electronics production and exports, targeting markets in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. The company’s Beni Suef factory already exports 85% of its television production to 55 countries, creating 5,000 job opportunities and producing 6 million units annually.
Abu Dhabi’s Marlan Space has partnered with Loft Orbital to launch Orbitworks, the Middle East’s first private space infrastructure company. Orbitworks will produce LEO satellite constellations, with plans to launch the first platform by 2026, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s space industry.
The Pakistan Embassy in Saudi Arabia has launched a Co-Working Space at its Riyadh premises, aimed at facilitating Pakistani startups and tech companies looking to establish their businesses in the Kingdom. Interested parties can contact the Embassy for more information via email.
Bahrain is gearing up for the second edition of Fintech Forward, a key event in the Middle East’s fintech landscape. Scheduled for October 2024, the event will unite global experts, financial institutions, and regulators to discuss AI, blockchain, and sustainable finance, showcasing Bahrain’s leadership in digital transformation.
Zain Bahrain has welcomed 34 new trainees as part of its Zain Youth Empowerment program. The internship offers hands-on experience across various departments, while also engaging in community initiatives. The program aligns with Zain Bahrain’s commitment to corporate sustainability and equipping young Bahraini talent with valuable skills.