Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Nepal’s free WiFi hotspot services by ISPs have reportedly caused telcos Rs 14 billion in annual revenue loss by reducing mobile data sales. Regulatory gaps and fee disparities fuel tensions, with the Nepal Telecommunications Authority considering shutting down unlimited free hotspots.
Deloitte has launched its CyberAcademy in Casablanca to train engineers, IT professionals, and leaders in advanced cybersecurity. The initiative, aligned with Morocco’s digital transformation strategy, aims to build a skilled talent ecosystem and position the country as a regional hub for digital security.
Ogero is upgrading Beirut International Airport’s public WiFi from WiFi 5 to WiFi 7, offering faster speeds and reduced congestion for users. While the upgrade is part of a broader digital infrastructure plan, concerns have been raised about prioritizing airport improvements amid ongoing telecom challenges in Lebanon.
Saudi Arabia has introduced new digital services on the Absher platform, including features for passport issuance, national ID renewals, and educational qualification updates. These updates aim to streamline government procedures, reduce paperwork, and enhance service accessibility for both citizens and expatriates, aligning with the country’s digital transformation goals.
Morocco’s publishing industry is embracing digital transformation, with digital publications now comprising 8.97% of the total output. Efforts by public institutions, universities, and cultural organizations are helping to diversify the literary and academic scene, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, making digital formats more central to knowledge dissemination.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is planning to block unregistered VPNs across the country, aiming to manage internet restrictions. This initiative ensures businesses remain compliant through VPN registration while maintaining secure and uninterrupted online operations.
Lola, a Bahrain-based foodtech startup, raised US$1.3 million in a pre-seed funding round led by Vision Ventures and Plus VC. The investment will support Lola’s expansion in Saudi Arabia and the GCC region, enhancing its customizable cake-ordering service and enabling future product category growth in the personalized gifting market.
Robi Axiata has partnered with bKash to streamline financial management by using bKash’s B2B cash collection solution. This collaboration enables Robi’s distribution houses across Bangladesh to make cashless, secure, and transparent transactions, improving efficiency and promoting a digital transaction ecosystem in the country.
Beyond physical infrastructure, Africa’s integration requires modern software upgrades: the systems, policies, and institutional frameworks that power trade across borders…
Egypt’s “Shaping AI Horizon” forum focused on the National AI Strategy (2025-2030), aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and technology investment. Key pillars include AI infrastructure, talent development, and regulatory frameworks. ITIDA and 500 Global are collaborating to address AI skill shortages and promote innovation within Egypt’s AI ecosystem.