Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Maroc Telecom invested 3.2 billion dirhams in the first half of 2024, marking a 9.8% increase from the previous year. The investment fueled a 5.1% rise in subscribers to 78.4 million. Despite a slight dip in revenue and EBITDA, the group’s adjusted net income grew by 0.3% to 2.94 billion dirhams.
Khalifa University’s RIC2D, through Intratomics, has partnered with LOLC Advanced Technologies Australia to develop and produce graphene-related products. The collaboration includes establishing a state-of-the-art production facility in Abu Dhabi, focusing on sustainable materials and supporting the UAE’s economic diversification through advanced materials like Graphene Oxide and Graphite derivatives.
Ooredoo has launched new Maktabi packages, offering an all-in-one business communication solution for small businesses in Oman. Starting at OMR 29.5 per month, these packages include high-speed internet, mobile and fixed-line communication, security solutions, Microsoft 365, TallyPrime, and 24/7 smart CCTV surveillance to support SMEs and SoHos in achieving their business goals.
Qatar’s esports industry is set for significant growth, with projected revenue reaching $125.70 million in 2024 and expected to rise to $152.90 million by 2027. The Qatar Esports Federation (QESF) is driving this expansion through strategic investments, government support, and a robust gaming ecosystem, positioning Qatar as a regional esports hub.
Huawei Cloud, in collaboration with Fintech Saudi, hosted the Huawei Cloud Fintech Day Saudi Arabia 2024, highlighting innovative cloud solutions for the Kingdom’s fintech industry. The event introduced the Fintech Pioneer Program, offering exclusive support to fintech companies, and emphasized the partnership’s role in driving digital transformation and fostering a robust fintech ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.
By 2031, Dubai Police will fully integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into all services, including security, crime forecasting, traffic management, and disaster response. The AI Strategic Plan 2018-2031 aims to enhance policing through AI-assisted customer service centers, smart stations, and advanced tools, aligning with Dubai’s vision for a safe, smart city.
ICAEW and UAE Banks Federation have partnered to guide companies through the UAE’s evolving digital assets landscape, with a focus on Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). The collaboration emphasizes the UAE’s leadership in financial innovation, the importance of cybersecurity, and the need for standardized accounting practices to ensure secure, compliant digital integration.
Egyptian fintech Lucky ONE has raised $3 million in a convertible note, aiming for profitability by Q1 2025. The funds will expand its credit lending services, aligning with Egypt’s financial inclusion goals. Co-founders Momtaz Moussa and Ayman Essawy emphasize sustainable growth, with plans for regional expansion and a comprehensive financial services offering.
Bahrain’s telecommunications sector showed strong growth in Q1 2024, with a 13.8% increase in mobile subscribers and a 10.2% rise in data consumption. Mobile and broadband sectors thrived, while fixed telephony saw a slight decline. The steady progress in fibre broadband infrastructure indicates a promising future for the sector.
Qatar Development Bank (QDB), in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Agency, launched the “Cyber Security Manual for SMEs” to enhance cybersecurity awareness and provide practical guidelines for small and medium-sized enterprises in Qatar. The manual addresses common cyber risks, basic security controls, and employee training, aiming to strengthen the national entrepreneurial ecosystem.