Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has sold Thiqah Business Services to Elm for 3.4 billion Saudi riyals ($907 million). This sale is part of PIF’s strategy to strengthen reserves and focus on local investments in anticipation of Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation under the Vision 2030 plan.
Iraq’s cabinet has authorized the creation of a national mobile company to operate a 5G network, collaborating with Vodafone. This initiative, backed by local investments and government support, aims to enhance telecommunications infrastructure, improve service quality, and boost national income. The network will provide faster speeds and lower latency.
Kazakhstan plans to connect nearly all rural settlements to high-speed internet by 2027 via fiber-optic and satellite infrastructure, backed by a $470 million investment. This expansion aims to enhance education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in remote areas.
RakBank has partnered with Bitpanda Technology Solutions to launch a platform allowing UAE residents to manage digital assets efficiently. Pending regulatory approval, this collaboration aims to transform the UAE’s digital financial landscape, providing RakBank customers with access to a wide range of digital assets and fostering sector growth.
Algérie Télécom is offering new customers subscribing to IDOOM Fibre plans with speeds of 30 Mbps or more an exclusive promotion. From May 4 to June 2, 2025, subscribers will experience speeds up to 1 Gbps for 30 days, with optical modem and installation costs included for just 1,000.00 DZD.
Telenor, Grameenphone, and Plan International have launched the “Digital Inclusion: Safe Digital Space for Girls and Youth Project” to empower over 2.35 million marginalized women and youth in Bangladesh, focusing on enhancing digital literacy, skills, and creating a safe online environment.
Vodafone Egypt has partnered with Yango Play to offer customers access to a diverse digital entertainment library, including movies, series, music, and games. This collaboration strengthens Vodafone’s position in the digital entertainment sector and aims to deliver a comprehensive and innovative entertainment experience for users in Egypt and the MENA region.
Scale AI, backed by Amazon, is expanding into the Middle East with plans to open an office in Riyadh and establish a presence in the UAE. The company aims to capitalize on the Gulf’s growing AI adoption and strengthen regional ties, contributing to the region’s digital transformation.
STC Bahrain has launched its exclusive blockchain network, Intersect, on Avalanche, promoting digital transformation and Web3 innovation. The initiative includes a 30-day “Makeathon + Hackathon” event from August 12 to September 11, engaging developers and artists to showcase Intersect’s potential in revolutionizing various industries and enhancing digital services.
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