Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Vodafone Qatar and Nokia have teamed up to modernize the nation’s 5G network with cloud-native core upgrades, enhanced broadband, automation, and AI-driven management. This strategic move supports Qatar’s digital ambitions under National Vision 2030, promising improved 5G coverage, reliability, and innovative service offerings.
Following an $80 million loan, Orange Egypt has launched 5G services starting in high-demand areas, with nationwide expansion planned. The launch supports Egypt’s digital transformation efforts, including Smart City initiatives and growing demand for high-speed connectivity, while ensuring quality standards through collaboration with the NTRA.
Ericsson and Orange Maroc have partnered to deploy advanced 5G core and cloud-native solutions, supporting Morocco’s planned standalone 5G launch in late 2025. This initiative aligns with the national Digital 2030 plan and regulatory targets for extensive 5G coverage, while collaboration between operators Maroc Telecom and Inwi aims to fast-track fiber and 5G infrastructure rollout.
Iran plans to roll out 5G internet in major cities by March 2025, with a focus on metropolises. The government will auction radio frequencies needed for the expansion, and an agreement with South Korea will enable 5G on Samsung phones. The network will offer speeds up to 500 Mbps.
All schools in Buraimi Governorate are now connected to high-speed Internet, with 100% coverage via fiber optics and 5G. Residential areas also benefit from 5G and fiber-optic broadband, with satellite services for remote villages. TRA has expanded 5G and 4G stations and completed 32 telecom projects in 2024.
Jordan’s telecommunications sector saw strong growth in Q4 2024, with significant increases in mobile broadband subscriptions, 5G adoption, and data usage. Fixed-line call traffic and text messaging also saw substantial rises. Notably, 5G subscriptions grew by 800% compared to Q4 2023, reflecting continued digital transformation across the Kingdom.
Omantel has successfully completed a trial of self-operating Passive IoT technology, which uses ambient energy sources instead of batteries. The trial, conducted over Omantel’s 5G network, demonstrated the potential for Passive IoT to transform industries like logistics and healthcare with minimal maintenance and extended device lifespans.
Ooredoo Kuwait is advancing digital transformation with its 5G, AI, and sustainability initiatives. The company has launched its 5G Advanced network, incorporated AI in network operations, and emphasized sustainability through green communication practices. Ooredoo’s commitment to innovation and sustainability aims to create lasting societal impact and strengthen its position as a telecom leader.
Morocco is set to launch its 5G mobile network in November 2025, aiming for 25% coverage by year-end and 70% by 2030. The rollout will drive innovation across industries, backed by partnerships between Maroc Telecom, Inwi, and Orange Morocco, positioning Morocco as a regional leader in digital transformation.
Turkcell successfully completed its first 5G test on an autonomous marine vehicle at TEKNOFEST TRNC in Cyprus, marking the first 5G connection from land to sea in the region. The test demonstrated the advantages of 5G’s low latency and high speed while showcasing domestic technology developed by the SuTech team.