Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Orange Group’s Middle East and Africa division continues its growth streak, achieving its eighth consecutive quarter of expansion. The company credits investment in 4G and 5G networks, with data services driving 60% of the revenue increase. MEA’s revenue rose by 12.8%, solidifying its role as the group’s largest contributor.
UMT has become Pakistan’s first university to launch a fully immersive virtual campus in the Metaverse. This groundbreaking initiative allows students and visitors to explore the campus interactively, access admissions portals, and engage with faculty. UMT is redefining education for the digital age, fostering global collaboration and career development.
Tarifica has awarded Virgin Mobile UAE’s “Build Your Own Plan” as the Consumer Value Plan of the Month for September 2024, recognizing its flexibility and customization options that cater specifically to consumer needs, with significant discounts for long-term commitments.
Haball, a Pakistani fintech offering shariah-compliant supply chain finance solutions, raised USD 52 million in pre-Series A funding. The round, led by Zayn VC and Meezan Bank, will support Haball’s expansion into Saudi Arabia and the GCC, addressing the region’s demand for digital financial services for SMEs.
The “Build By Her” hackathon series empowers women in Pakistan’s STEM fields, supporting women-led startups through mentorship and skill-building. The latest event saw innovative projects pitch for seed funding, highlighting the potential of women entrepreneurs to drive economic growth and technological progress across Pakistan.
Satellite internet is transforming connectivity in the GCC, bridging the digital divide and empowering remote communities. By enhancing access to services like education, healthcare, and e-commerce, it’s driving innovation and boosting the economy. Satellite technology is also pivotal in industry advancements, including agriculture and oil, fueling the region’s growth.
The 19th IsDB Global Forum in Algiers focused on digital transformation and financial inclusion in Islamic finance. Key initiatives like the Medikids Project and AI Hackathon highlighted innovation, while discussions emphasized fintech, Sukuk, and sustainable development’s role in advancing the $4+ trillion Islamic finance industry.
Oman has launched new business services on the Oman Business Platform, including the “Lease Contracts Service,” Financial Reports Service, and the Interactive Guide Service for trade names. The initiative aims to boost economic activity, streamline operations, and support digital transformation by enhancing accessibility to key business services.