Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Iraq and Iran’s telecom cooperation aims to deliver enhanced connectivity and support services for millions of Arbaeen pilgrims, ensuring reliable communication during one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
HUTCH Sri Lanka partners with the Ministry of Education to donate 100 electric bicycles to schoolchildren in rural areas, aiming to improve transportation access and promote sustainable mobility solutions. This initiative highlights HUTCH’s commitment to enhancing education and community development across Sri Lanka.
Ooredoo Oman is advancing its market leadership with a focus on customer-centric innovation, strategic 5G deployment, and sustainability. Chief Commercial Officer Quique Vivas outlines a long-term vision that includes empowering both consumers and businesses through advanced technologies, while emphasizing the company’s commitment to societal impact and sustainable growth in the telecommunications sector.
Bangladesh has introduced a new telecom licensing policy consolidating over 20 licence types into three while capping foreign ownership in network access services at 85 percent. The reform phases out intermediary operators, addresses transparency concerns, and seeks to streamline the sector, though operators warn of risks to local businesses and investment confidence.
Mobily has successfully trialed Ericsson’s AI-powered 5G uplink interference optimiser, improving 5G network performance by 80%. The trial enhanced spectral efficiency, faster uplink speeds, and overall user experience. This collaboration supports Saudi Vision 2030, positioning Mobily as a leader in 5G connectivity and network optimisation in Saudi Arabia.
The Algerian Economic Renewal Council (CREA) led by Kamel Moula concluded discussions on technical proposals to revive Algeria’s mobile phone industry. Over five months, industry leaders collaborated to shape the future of assembly, production, and R&D in line with national goals.
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.
Orange Jordan, in partnership with MoDEE, has launched the incubation phase for 100 entrepreneurial ideas from the 2024 Entrepreneurship Hackathon. The initiative offers training, mentoring, and support through Orange Incubators, aiming to foster growth in sectors like agricultural technology, education, renewable energy, and tourism, contributing to national development.
Kuwait has launched the second edition of its Digital Skills Development Initiative with Google Cloud, targeting training in AI, cloud, and cybersecurity. The program supports “New Kuwait 2035” by boosting institutional efficiency, strengthening competitiveness, and positioning Kuwait as a regional technology hub.
The Egyptian Tax Authority is enhancing its digital services to support taxpayers, especially during tax filing season. This includes the establishment of a Digital Services Center and partnerships with professional syndicates to provide technical support. The Authority is expanding its digital services to ensure nationwide access and smoother compliance.