Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Algeria enacts a comprehensive cryptocurrency ban, criminalizing all related activities to reinforce financial system control and combat illicit funding. Violators face imprisonment and hefty fines under the new law.
du has launched a Travel eSIM to provide seamless, affordable data connectivity for transit travelers at UAE airports. The service allows passengers to easily access data bundles for over 190 countries, ensuring a smooth and convenient travel experience, with instant activation and setup via QR code scanning at the airport.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) in Oman plans extensive field visits in 2025 to assess key performance indicators in telecommunications. These visits will cover various locations, including tourist destinations, highways, and airports. Results will be published online to ensure transparency and improve telecom services in the country.
Turk Telekom has partnered with Cisco to integrate Cisco BroadWorks Cloud solutions into its data centers and deploy the Cisco Mobility Services Platform using 5G technologies. This collaboration aims to enhance IoT experiences, improve network reliability, and drive Turkey’s digital transformation by offering faster and more secure connections.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has recognized Saudi Arabia’s Digital Regulatory Academy (DRA) for its role in advancing digital capabilities globally. The DRA has contributed to the Telecommunications and Technology Assistance Project and trained over 900 individuals from 100+ countries, furthering the nation’s leadership in digital regulation and transformation.
Bangladesh’s cashless payment ecosystem expands rapidly through card usage, apps, and QR payments, driven by infrastructure improvements and growing consumer trust.
Checkout.com has partnered with noqodi to integrate advanced payment technology into the UAE’s financial ecosystem. This collaboration aims to enhance payment processes for businesses and consumers, offering secure, efficient, and flexible payment solutions. It will streamline transactions, boost operational efficiency, and support economic growth in the region.
In 2024, Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) conducted 148 inspections and reviewed 11,423 import license applications. Violations related to telecommunications imports dropped, reflecting improved compliance. The TRA’s proactive inspections, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, ensure adherence to technical regulations, preventing interference and supporting Bahrain’s telecom infrastructure.
The UAE National Pavilion will participate in SOFEX 2024 in Jordan, showcasing advanced defence technologies from leading UAE companies. Supported by the Ministry of Defence and Tawazun Council, the pavilion aims to foster international cooperation, form strategic partnerships, and highlight the UAE’s role as a regional hub for defence innovation and manufacturing.
Saudi Arabia and Oman are exploring new investment opportunities in sectors like health, education, and technology, strengthening bilateral economic ties. Recent meetings highlighted cooperation through private sector involvement and initiatives supporting Vision 2030 and Vision 2040, alongside growing trade and joint development projects in key sectors.