Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Zong and Zindigi have partnered to deliver G2P payments via branchless banking, enabling M-Wallets for Zong customers in underserved areas. The initiative ensures secure, timely aid distribution, boosts financial inclusion, and strengthens Pakistan’s digital banking ecosystem through public-private collaboration.
Mastercard and Jordan Islamic Bank have partnered to expand Shari’ah-compliant digital payment solutions in Jordan. The collaboration will enhance JIB’s card offerings with Mastercard’s advanced payment technologies, focusing on secure, accessible, and value-driven services that align with Islamic banking principles.
This partnership advances Bahrain’s digital banking capabilities, aligning with national economic goals by integrating innovative IT solutions to enhance resilience and customer service.
STC Bank has been recognized as Saudi Arabia’s Best Digital Bank, highlighting its rapid evolution from a digital wallet to a full banking service embraced by millions. The award from Inc. Arabia underscores STC Bank’s innovation and leadership in shaping digital financial services for the Kingdom’s tech-savvy population.
UAE-based VC fund EQIQ has invested $3 million in InstaBank, a new AI-powered digital bank in Iraq, as part of a $15 million funding round. Led by finance veteran Hussain Qaragholi, InstaBank aims to transform Iraq’s financial sector with scalable, inclusive fintech services and serve as a core pillar of EQIQ’s regional digital ecosystem strategy.
Qatar Islamic Bank has launched the QIB Junior App, a first-of-its-kind digital banking platform for youth aged 8–17. The app combines a prepaid Visa card with savings tools and parental controls, aiming to build financial literacy and confidence under secure supervision. The solution aligns with Qatar’s vision for digital inclusion and sustainable development.
WAMD, Kuwait’s real-time payment system powered by ACI Worldwide and KNET, has quickly gained over one million users since its 2024 launch. The system improves payment speed, security, and convenience, supporting Kuwait’s digital transformation and setting the stage for expanded fintech integration and e-commerce payment solutions.
Crédit Coopératif plans to acquire fintech Anytime from Orange Bank, enhancing its digital services for associations and social economy organizations. The acquisition supports Crédit Coopératif’s 2025-2030 strategic plan to expand its digital offering and increase market share in the association segment with innovative, tailored financial solutions.
Commercial International Bank – Egypt (CIB) has launched an upgraded internet banking platform, offering a seamless digital experience for customers to manage accounts and perform transactions directly via web browsers. The platform supports various banking services and reflects CIB’s commitment to digital innovation, financial inclusion, and customer-centric solutions.
Khaleeji Bank has launched Visa+, a new digital money transfer service that allows users to send funds across GCC countries using just the recipient’s mobile number. This innovative service enhances security and convenience by eliminating the need for card details, aligning with the bank’s commitment to modern, digital financial solutions.