Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Sri Lanka’s digital economy has grown to Rs. 1.3 trillion (4.5% of GDP), led by e-commerce and e-services. E-commerce is projected to reach $3.9 billion by 2029, while e-services are expected to hit $1.9 billion, reflecting rapid digital adoption and consumer engagement across the island.
Pakistan recorded its highest-ever monthly IT exports of $366 million in September 2025, a 25% increase year-on-year. Growth was driven by global expansion, relaxed forex retention rules, and currency stability. IT exports for Q1 FY2025 reached $1.06 billion, setting strong momentum toward the $5 billion FY2026 target.
The Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) has expanded its partnership with Oman to boost digital innovation, startup growth, and cross-border data governance. Through initiatives like STRIDE and the Digital FDI project with the WEF, Oman is being positioned as a leading regional destination for digital investment.
Morocco’s digital services exports rose to 13.4 billion MAD in the first half of 2025, up 3.5% year-on-year. Driven by IT outsourcing and CRM services, the sector continues to underpin Morocco’s Digital 2030 vision to become a regional hub for innovation and tech exports.
Qatar has launched a strategic partnership to expand its “Scale Now” program, aimed at nurturing Qatari digital startups through funding, mentorship, and innovation collaboration. The initiative supports Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030 and is expected to create 26,000 ICT jobs by 2030.
Algeria has launched the Algerian Content Creators Network, uniting more than 300 professionals following the 2nd Content Creators Camp in Algiers. The initiative aims to strengthen the country’s creative ecosystem, promote collaboration, and enhance the role of digital content in Algeria’s innovation and entrepreneurship agenda.
The GCC reaffirmed its strategic partnership with the Digital Cooperation Organization to accelerate digital transformation, develop regulatory frameworks, and strengthen innovation across member states. Joint programs and policy dialogues aim to build a unified, future-ready regional digital economy.
Jordan’s climb to first place in Arab cybersecurity rankings marks a milestone in its digital transformation. Through a mix of strong governance, proactive defense, and balanced regulation, the Kingdom is positioning cybersecurity as both a shield for national stability and a catalyst for economic growth.
Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Al-Swaha and Bahrain’s Sheikh Abdullah Al-Khalifa met in Kuwait to enhance cooperation in AI, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation, reinforcing GCC efforts to build an integrated regional digital economy.
Orange Jordan and ICON launched the second phase of their Startup Growth Acceleration Program in Al-Karak and Aqaba, supporting entrepreneurs through mentorship, training, and networking under the GIZ-led E4DE initiative to promote sustainable business growth across southern Jordan.