Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Algeria has improved its ICT Development Index ranking from 89th to 74th globally in 2025, surpassing averages for the world, the Arab region, Africa, and upper-middle-income countries. This progress underscores the country’s commitment to expanding universal and meaningful internet connectivity as part of its national digital vision.
Pak Datacom enters a strategic MoU with an Asia-Pacific satellite broadband firm to expand next-gen broadband services in remote and underserved regions of Pakistan.
Saudi Arabia has announced its candidacy to retain its ITU Council seat, emphasizing rapid global connectivity expansion, AI readiness, and regulatory leadership. The Kingdom’s digital workforce growth and upcoming hosting of the 2025 GSR in Riyadh reinforce its position as a regional and global leader in telecommunications and technology policy.
Saudi Arabia announced its bid to retain its seat on the ITU Council, reinforcing its leadership in accelerating global connectivity and digital inclusion. The Kingdom emphasizes innovation, inclusive AI, digital workforce growth, and regulatory leadership, while hosting the 2025 Global Symposium for Regulators in Riyadh.
Cyshield and Thales launch Egypt’s first eSIM service, enabling flexible, secure connectivity for consumers and IoT devices. Supporting all major operators, the platform allows seamless subscription management and has already served over 400,000 users. The initiative advances Egypt’s digital sovereignty and IoT connectivity ecosystem.
Engro Holdings finalizes its acquisition of Jazz’s 10,500-tower infrastructure subsidiary, Deodar, following regulatory and court approvals. The deal, effective June 3, 2025, marks a pivotal development in Pakistan’s telecom sector, strengthening digital connectivity and network infrastructure under Engro Connect’s management.
Bahrain’s Ministry of Sustainable Development, in partnership with ITU and the UN, conducted a virtual workshop to enhance methodologies for calculating and reporting SDG indicators focused on digital connectivity. The initiative aims to improve data quality, support policymaking, and advance Bahrain’s progress toward bridging the digital divide.
Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) is collaborating with Starlink to launch satellite internet services, proposing to host Starlink gateways at key ground stations. Following successful terminal tests and regulatory progress, the partnership aims to boost connectivity nationwide, supporting underserved regions and advancing Bangladesh’s digital transformation.
Grameenphone has introduced discounted limitless internet packs, offering up to 10% off on selected plans. The new offers, available through various customer touchpoints, provide affordable high-speed internet for seamless browsing, streaming, and remote work. The company aims to make high-speed digital connectivity accessible and affordable for all customers.
Nepal Telecom has launched 4G mobile data services in Kotrang, Junichande Rural Municipality, Jajarkot, marking the first introduction of 4G in the area. The service also includes 2G coverage, enabling faster data, reliable voice services, and video calling. NTC aims for nationwide coverage and future 5G implementation.