Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
M360 MENA 2024 opened in Doha, focusing on 5G, AI, and digital partnerships. Key speakers emphasized mobile services’ projected $360 billion contribution to the region’s GDP by 2030. The event highlighted AI’s role in driving innovation and digital transformation in MENA, alongside Ooredoo’s leadership in digital connectivity.
The Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Mohammed Ahmed Al-Mahdi, inaugurated the VIP sales and service lounge in Ibb city, emphasizing the expansion of telecom services. He also inspected the construction of Yemen Mobile’s main service center, urging adherence to technical specifications and timelines to improve local services.
Digital Forge Information Technology in Qatar has launched a range of web-based systems to improve operations for businesses and institutions. These solutions include queue management, library management, CRM, POS and inventory management, hospital management, and school management systems, all designed to simplify processes and enhance efficiency across various sectors.
Zain Group’s Q2 2024 results show a 79% net profit increase, with revenue growing 4% YoY to KD 479 million (USD 1.6 billion). Customer base soared 13% to 47.8 million. Key highlights include growth in 5G revenues, fintech services, and digital operator entities, despite challenges in Sudan.
Vodafone showcased its technological expertise at COMEX 2024, attracting 24,000 visitors, hosting 15 workshops, and signing 7 partnership agreements. Key collaborations include Ericsson, Huawei, and Qpay. Vodafone also received the prestigious Cyber Security Award, highlighting its commitment to digital transformation, cybersecurity, and innovation in Oman.
CloudFret, a logistics startup, has raised €2 million for its innovative solution to optimize empty truck returns, aiming to expand its operations and double its workforce by 2024.
Zain Jordan’s ZINC, in partnership with Nokia and Al-Balqa Applied University, has launched an AI Bootcamp for 70 participants selected from 450 applicants. The five-day program provides training, mentorship, and AI tools to help teams develop at least 20 viable products, strengthening Jordan’s innovation ecosystem.
Telecom Egypt (ETEL) reported a 48.26% year-on-year increase in net profit for the first nine months of 2023, reaching EGP 9.148 billion. This growth is reflected in both its consolidated and standalone financial statements, with significant rises in operating revenues and net profits, underscoring the company’s strong position in the telecommunications sector.
Bahrain’s Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) held virtual workshops to launch the 13th eGovernment Excellence Award 2025, educating participants on categories, criteria, and submission processes. The initiative supports digital innovation and service quality improvements, encouraging public, private, and individual involvement before the June 28 deadline.
Oman’s telecommunications sector has seen significant changes with a 23% increase in postpaid mobile subscriptions and growth in broadband usage. Despite a decline in prepaid subscriptions and traditional fixed-line services, mobile broadband and high-speed internet subscriptions continue to rise, reflecting the country’s shift toward modern digital infrastructure.