Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
A new study reveals that 70.2% of Arabs are internet users, with 46% active on social media. TikTok is the most popular platform, especially in the Gulf, while Facebook leads in North Africa. YouTube and Snapchat also see strong usage in specific countries, highlighting diverse regional preferences.
Algérie Télécom has revised its summer working hours for commercial agencies from June 1 to September 30, 2024. Northern regions will operate from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, while southern regions will have split hours to mitigate heat. Customer service points will follow regional schedules, ensuring continuous service.
Tuwaiq Academy in Riyadh is now accepting registrations for over 150 advanced technical bootcamps scheduled for Q1 2025. The programs, in partnership with global organizations, will enhance workforce skills in areas like AI, programming, robotics, and cybersecurity. Tuwaiq aims to connect students with job opportunities across sectors.
Tranglo has expanded its cross-border payment services to the GCC, helping over 31 million migrant workers send money more efficiently. The move supports financial inclusion and remittances growth, enhancing the ease and affordability of cross-border transactions in the region.
Ericsson has deployed an ATEX Zone 1-certified solution for Ooredoo Qatar’s offshore operations, ensuring safe and reliable network connectivity in hazardous environments. The solution, designed for radio access network equipment, supports superior 4G network performance for enterprise customers, while meeting strict safety standards in offshore industries.
Ooredoo Qatar, in partnership with Microsoft, launched “Obot” at Web Summit Qatar 2025. Powered by GPT-4, this AI assistant will enhance customer service by offering personalized recommendations, order tracking, and more. Obot will be available across multiple platforms, further elevating Ooredoo’s customer experience.
Kuwaiti fintech startup Kem has secured a $3 million investment from Tether, raising its total funding to $4.5 million. Kem’s platform enables QR code-based P2P payments, simplifying transactions. Tether’s investment aims to promote the adoption of USD₮ and expand digital financial services in the region.
Redington expands its partnership with Autodesk to include Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, enhancing delivery of advanced design and engineering software across the Middle East. This collaboration aims to drive digital innovation and sustainable growth in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and media through strengthened channel support and regional expertise.
KAFD and Huawei have launched Saudi Arabia’s first Smart WiFi-7 service, enhancing connectivity and digital infrastructure across the King Abdullah Financial District. This collaboration supports the region’s digital transformation, offering faster, secure internet and personalized services for residents, visitors, and businesses, contributing to KAFD’s status as a global smart city.
Dialog Axiata has launched a new real-time school van tracking service, enhancing student safety and operational efficiency. Leveraging GPS and 4G technology, parents can track their child’s van and receive alerts via SMS. The service benefits van operators by improving reliability and accountability. Devices cost LKR18,990, with a subscription fee of LKR1,910.