Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Mastercard is advancing a digital payment initiative in Bangladesh, highlighted by their “Stunning Sydney 2024” campaign, aimed at reducing cash transactions. The campaign, encouraging digital payments during Eid-ul-Adha, aligns with Bangladesh’s goal to transition towards a cashless society.
Starlink has launched in Yemen, offering high-speed internet across the country, including conflict zones. The launch has been met with resistance from Huthi rebels, citing security concerns. The service promises connectivity even in remote areas, amid ongoing civil conflict and humanitarian crises.
du announces its participation in Ru’ya Careers UAE 2024, aiming to empower Emirati talent in the digital sector. The initiative supports du’s commitment to digital training, addressing the talent gap, and enhancing the UAE’s status as a global digital leader.
Saudi Arabia will host the Child Protection in Cyberspace Global Summit in Riyadh, aiming to secure a safer online environment for children. The summit, part of the Global Cybersecurity Forum, will unite global leaders to discuss child safety in the digital age.
Saudi Arabia is advancing its digital transformation with AI and 5G, driving economic growth under Vision 2030. These technologies optimize network efficiency, enhance user experiences, and support emerging tech like smart cities and autonomous vehicles, positioning Saudi as a leader in the global digital economy.
Oman has advanced to 41st globally in the 2024 UN E-Government Index, showcasing significant progress in digital governance. This improvement reflects enhancements in online services, telecommunications infrastructure, and human capital, aligning Oman as a leader in digital transformation in the Middle East and Asia.
Userguest, a Moroccan startup, has raised $2.4 million to expand and innovate its hotel revenue optimization tool. The investment will enhance Userguest’s technology for personalizing hotel guest interactions, aiming to increase direct bookings and user satisfaction across over 30 countries.
Samsung’s latest smart TVs now feature Ooredoo Kuwait’s ’51’ digital platform, enhancing user experience with advanced audiovisual technology. This integration supports Kuwait’s Vision 2035 by providing diverse content, including live broadcasts and on-demand services, to users in the Gulf and Arab regions.
Iraq partners with Apple to launch a training program aimed at enhancing job opportunities for young people. This initiative, part of a broader digital transformation strategy, includes improvements in public services and digital infrastructure, backed by collaborations in academia and technology development.
Egypt plans to construct a renewable energy-powered green data center, aligning with its goal to increase digital service exports to $9 billion by 2026. This initiative reflects Africa’s broader ambition for digital sovereignty and local data hosting, capitalizing on Egypt’s strategic geographic position.