Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s telecom committee has recommended amendments to simplify Right of Way access and bring NTC under the SOEs framework, aiming to accelerate telecom infrastructure deployment and strengthen governance. The proposed changes introduce approval timelines, dispute resolution mechanisms, and regulatory reforms to support digital connectivity expansion.
India will host the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, bringing together global leaders and technology firms to advance cooperation on AI governance, innovation, and infrastructure. The summit highlights India’s ambition to lead inclusive AI development while showcasing indigenous AI models and practical applications across key economic sectors.
OmanSat-1 marks Oman’s entry into independent space communications, aiming to enhance digital sovereignty, secure critical services, and expand regional connectivity. The satellite will support broadband and institutional networks while strengthening the country’s position as a regional satellite operator and advancing long-term space sector development.
The UAE has deployed its first AI clinical intelligence platform across public hospitals, using an AI physician assistant to conduct pre-consultation interviews and reduce administrative workload for clinicians. The initiative supports digital healthcare transformation by improving workflow efficiency, clinical decision-making, and patient engagement through multilingual AI capabilities.
The UAE has partnered with Starlink to provide high-speed satellite internet to 100 remote schools, aiming to expand digital education access in underserved regions. The initiative uses satellite connectivity to overcome infrastructure challenges and supports inclusive, technology-driven learning through the Digital School program.
NADRA has launched a mobile registration drive in Ras Al Khaimah to provide identification services for overseas Pakistanis, enabling document applications, renewals, and corrections. The initiative supports digital service delivery through mobile teams and online platforms, improving accessibility and streamlining identity verification processes for citizens abroad.
Kazakhstan has launched a new telecommunications corridor connecting Central Asia to the UAE, enhancing digital transit capacity, reducing latency, and strengthening cross-border connectivity. The initiative supports the Digital Silk Road vision while positioning Kazakhstan as a strategic hub for international data traffic and regional digital infrastructure growth.
Saudi Arabia is reshaping Vision 2030 to prioritize technology, digital infrastructure, and advanced industries, shifting investment away from large construction projects toward innovation-driven sectors. The strategy focuses on sustainable economic diversification, workforce development, and strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a regional hub for technology and emerging industries.
Tunisia recorded an 81% increase in mobile payments in 2025, driven by digital wallet adoption, infrastructure modernization, and financial inclusion initiatives. The growth reflects a broader shift toward electronic transactions as mobile platforms become the preferred payment method across consumer and merchant activities in the country.
Aramco and Microsoft have signed an agreement to advance industrial AI adoption across energy operations, focusing on operational efficiency, digital sovereignty, and workforce development. The partnership aims to integrate AI into core industrial systems while supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader digital transformation and technology innovation goals.