Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Kuwait will host the Digital Cooperation Organization’s fifth General Assembly on February 4–5, 2026, bringing together global digital economy leaders to review progress, set priorities, and advance cooperation on AI, digital infrastructure, and inclusive growth under the DCO’s 2025–2028 agenda.
Pakistan’s telecom sector crossed 200 million subscribers in FY2024–25, with revenues exceeding Rs1 trillion and broadband penetration surpassing 60%. Investment growth, expanded 4G coverage, rising data consumption, and increased local device manufacturing reinforced the sector’s role in Pakistan’s digital economy.
Oman Broadband expanded fiber-optic coverage to nearly 927,000 homes by November 2025 and surpassed 326,000 active subscribers, with plans to reach one million homes within three years. The expansion supports smart cities, SME participation, and Oman’s broader digital economy goals.
Saudi Arabia’s digital economy contributed 16 percent of GDP in 2024, driven by strong growth in ICT revenues, telecommunications activity, and a sharp rise in ICT exports and imports, reflecting the sector’s expanding role in the national economy.
Nepal is targeting Rs 300 billion in annual IT exports by easing overseas investment rules and simplifying profit repatriation. Regulatory reforms, rising global demand, and a growing remote workforce are positioning the IT sector as a major driver of jobs, exports, and long-term digital economic growth.
The African Startup Conference in Algiers will focus on innovation financing, regulatory reform, and digital infrastructure challenges facing startups across the continent. Organisers see it as a platform to promote harmonised policies, new funding models, and stronger cross-border cooperation to support Africa’s growing startup ecosystem.
Algeria has officially launched 5G services following regulatory approval and technical testing, enabling operators to begin nationwide rollout. The move supports the country’s digital economy strategy, with 5G expected to drive innovation, GDP growth, and advanced services across healthcare, industry, and education.
Algeria has officially launched 5G services following regulatory approval and technical testing, enabling operators to begin nationwide rollout. The move supports the country’s digital economy strategy, with 5G expected to drive innovation, GDP growth, and advanced services across healthcare, industry, and education.
Iraq’s rapid digital expansion has connected millions of young people, but high youth unemployment highlights the challenge of turning access into jobs. By investing in digital skills, inclusive participation, and stronger public-private collaboration, Iraq can convert connectivity into sustainable economic opportunity and long-term growth.
Saudi Arabia’s e-commerce market is expected to triple to $708.7 billion by 2033, driven by Vision 2030, 99% smartphone penetration, and mobile-first consumer behaviour. Growth in digital payments, Q-commerce, omnichannel retail, and AI personalisation is reshaping how Saudis shop, while logistics and fraud prevention remain key challenges.