Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
PTA has licensed nine local VPN providers and launched a free registration portal, with over 30,000 users already enrolled. The move supports secure remote work for businesses and freelancers while strengthening oversight through new IP whitelisting rules to curb misuse and enhance cybersecurity.
Pakistan has spent over Rs52bn to extend telecom services to remote areas through the Universal Service Fund, but uneven coverage persists due to low commercial returns, security concerns, and infrastructure gaps. Officials told parliament that private operators drive expansion, and improved law and order is key to attracting investment and closing connectivity gaps.
Oman’s Global Money Exchange has launched Global Pay, a mobile payments app powered by Comviva’s mobiquity® Pay platform. The solution enables bill payments, remittances, and merchant transactions, aligning with Oman’s digital transformation agenda and supporting cashless adoption, financial inclusion, and modern payment experiences.
Oman’s mobile networks continue to lead the region, with Opensignal highlighting strong gains in 5G, speed, reliability, and coverage. Regulatory reforms, spectrum refarming, and large-scale upgrades have delivered near-universal 4G and 90% 5G reach, positioning the Sultanate as a regional connectivity benchmark.
Oman joined Arab telecom ministers in Cairo, urging deeper regional cooperation on cybersecurity and digital development. The Sultanate highlighted progress in broadband, digital government, data governance, and AI, as the council approved the creation of a regional artificial intelligence committee to coordinate Arab efforts.
Nepali accounting professionals in the UAE gathered in Dubai for NPAF’s flagship seminar “Yantra – AI & Innovation,” exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping the finance profession. Industry leaders shared practical insights on AI, strategy, and e-invoicing, reinforcing NPAF’s mission to build a future-ready professional community.
Bangladesh’s internet penetration stands at 53 percent, trailing Bhutan and the Maldives while facing gender, rural, and literacy gaps. An ADB report warns of fragmented governance and weak digital identity systems, but highlights mobile finance and “phygital” service centres as bright spots that could anchor a broader digital leap.
Nepal Telecom will roll out 1 Gbps FTTH connectivity in Omsatiya Rural Municipality under a new three-phase agreement. The project will connect municipal offices, health posts, and community schools, advancing Nepal’s goal of nationwide high-speed internet and strengthening digital access in rural areas.
Jordan’s National Council for Future Technology, chaired by Crown Prince Hussein, is positioning technology as a core engine of growth and quality of life. Business leaders say its first-year impact across education, healthcare, and public services signals a strategic shift toward innovation, private-sector leadership, and a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.
Jordan and Saudi Arabia have launched a new business network to institutionalize private-sector collaboration, accelerate deal-making, and expand trade and investment. Backed by chambers, diplomats, and business leaders, the platform introduces structured matchmaking, sector committees, and digital tools to convert opportunities into real projects.