Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia’s CST and SCIT Group have partnered for a $100 million investment to enhance Air-to-Ground (A2G) communication technology. The initiative aims to improve aviation safety, passenger connectivity, and airline operations, while fostering local talent and regional expansion. This collaboration positions Saudi Arabia as a global leader in aviation technology.
Al Moammar Information Systems Co. (MIS) sold its entire investment in OpenAI for $8.4 million, earning a profit of $3.4 million. The sale follows other strategic moves in AI and digital infrastructure, including partnerships and contracts in Saudi Arabia. MIS’s 2024 profits saw a 356% increase.
Kerala has become India’s first state to achieve total digital literacy, training over 20 lakh residents under its Digi Kerala initiative. Meanwhile, Bangladesh continues to face digital divides, policy shortcomings, and weak adult education programmes. Experts call for a coordinated literacy drive integrating digital skills to close the gap.
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) will grant 5G licenses to NTC and Ncell within a week of receiving applications. Both companies are ready to launch 5G services, with NTC already conducting trials. The rollout is expected to begin soon, bringing faster internet speeds and advanced mobile connectivity to Nepal.
Grameenphone’s MyGP app has won the Asian Technology Award 2024, recognized for its role in revolutionizing telecommunications in Bangladesh with user-friendly features like account management, one-tap payments, and live streaming.
Jordan has introduced a Blockchain Technology Policy for 2025, focusing on enhancing transparency, improving public services, and stimulating economic growth. The policy aims to streamline government functions, improve service efficiency, and support blockchain innovation, positioning Jordan as a leader in digital technologies and attracting international investment.
PayMaster has launched HOPPR, a ride-hailing service in Sri Lanka that integrates digital payments and an AI-powered credit system, offering drivers financial independence. With a unique referral system, drivers earn lifelong commissions, and access credit for expenses. The platform aims to empower gig workers and revolutionize the digital economy.
Infobip has appointed Mirza Bukva as the Director of Operator Partnerships for the EMEA region. With nearly a decade of experience at the company, Mirza will lead telecom partnership strategies, focusing on driving growth, aligning with emerging trends like 5G, and strengthening Infobip’s position in the competitive EMEA market.
Samsung Gulf and e& UAE have signed an MoU to collaborate on AI-powered connectivity solutions, exclusive device launches, and smart home experiences. This partnership aims to enhance customer experiences, drive digital transformation, and set new standards for connectivity, entertainment, and smart living across the UAE, with a focus on innovation.
e& UAE has deployed Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) to enhance its optical network with ultra-high-speed 400G connectivity, supporting 10Gb home services and AI data center hubs. This deployment doubles its data transmission capacity to 1.6 Tb/s per wavelength, reinforcing the company’s digital transformation and AI readiness.