Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
FITIS outlines a strategic plan to achieve Sri Lanka’s $15 billion digital economy goal by 2030, leveraging industry collaboration, emerging technologies, and inclusive growth initiatives.
Pakistan’s IT exports hit $3.8 billion in FY25 (+18%), led by services but needing growth in productization and hardware manufacturing. Experts call for stronger tech diplomacy, industry integration, IPO drives, and policy alignment to sustain growth and build a global tech brand.
Bangladesh’s TowerCo Build Forum 2025 launches to address telecom infrastructure challenges, promote collaboration, and support digital economy growth through new policies and industry coordination.
Jordan advanced ten projects in June spanning digital public engagement, airport automation, telecom regulation, and cybersecurity education, reinforcing the nation’s digital economy and security frameworks.
Saudi Arabia leads globally in mobile shopping with two-thirds of purchases via smartphones but faces high payment failures and friction, despite advanced infrastructure under Vision 2030. The kingdom’s digital payment adoption is strong, yet user experience issues reveal gaps needing urgent attention for seamless cashless transition.
Oman ranked fourth globally among developing economies for ICT infrastructure FDI from 2020–2024, attracting $1.7 billion. Driven by the National Digital Economy Programme and AI initiatives, Oman aims to boost digital skills, AI research, and grow its digital economy’s GDP share to 10% by 2040.
Pakistan has taken a major step in regulating its digital assets ecosystem by establishing the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA). This new independent body will license and oversee virtual asset providers, enforce AML protocols, and align with global standards. The move reflects Pakistan’s ambitions to become a South Asian digital assets hub following recent crypto policy developments.
Morocco is investing $26 million in Rabat Gaming City, launching training programs and a developer hub to combat youth unemployment and double gaming revenue by 2030. The Morocco Gaming Expo showcased global games and e-sports, highlighting Morocco’s goal to become Africa’s creative gaming hub.
Egypt and Thailand strengthened ICT collaboration via a networking event in Cairo, promoting B2B connections and supporting both countries’ digital transformation and software industry globalization goals.
Google’s 2024 Economic Impact Report estimates $8.3 billion in Saudi Arabia’s digital economy from its products and services. With broad adoption of AI tools like Gemini and strong developer growth, Google is fueling digital skills, job creation, and economic diversification aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.