The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs in Bahrain has signed an MoU with Batelco to enhance digital infrastructure, focusing on connectivity, voice communication, smart security, and digital signage. This collaboration aims to strengthen the ministry’s systems and explore opportunities in smart city technologies, boosting operational efficiency and sustainability.
Pakistan plans to expand its fiber-optic network, aiming to connect 7.5 million households and achieve 80% FTTS coverage within five years. This effort is part of the National Fiberization Policy under the Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP), focusing on boosting broadband speeds and preparing for emerging technologies like 5G and IoT.
The Bangladesh government has committed to reforming the internet sector by abolishing policies enabling shutdowns, reducing costs, and improving service quality. Key measures include deregulation, a new network topology, and expanded fibre infrastructure. The move aims to enhance digital access, affordability, and efficiency for businesses and consumers.
Fuze has received approval from the Central Bank of the UAE for a Retail Payment Services and Card Schemes license. This allows the company to offer advanced payment solutions, including AI-driven compliance, virtual IBANs, and real-time transactions, aligning with the UAE’s Digital Economy Strategy to drive financial innovation.
Syria’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdul Salam Haykal, met with Michalis Hadjikyrou, Cyprus’ Chargé d’Affaires, to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in communications and information technology. The focus was on advancing Syria’s digital infrastructure, fostering collaboration between the two nations in this sector.
du Tech has announced its headline sponsorship of the DCD Connect MENA event, set for April 15-16. This partnership highlights du Tech’s role in advancing data centre innovation with AI-enabled, liquid cooling solutions. The event will bring together industry leaders to discuss the future of digital infrastructure.
Starlink is set to launch its satellite internet service in Pakistan by November or December 2025. The service is in the final stages of the licensing process, with a regulatory framework being developed. Starlink’s infrastructure deployment is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Iraq is emerging as a crucial digital and commercial transit hub, connecting Europe and the Middle East with its new digital corridor. Strategic investments in telecom infrastructure are providing low-latency, resilient routes for global carriers, service providers, and hyperscalers, mitigating risks in the Red Sea and offering diverse connectivity options.
OmanSat has been granted a Category 1 license under Royal Decree 40/2025 to establish a satellite communication system providing broadband internet and satellite connectivity in Oman. This initiative will improve telecom infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, and contribute to market competitiveness, supporting the country’s digital transformation efforts.
Africa’s first global AI summit outlined a vision to generate $2.9 trillion by 2030, create half a million jobs annually, and uplift over 11 million people from poverty. Discussions focused on AI’s potential in health, education, and agriculture, while emphasizing infrastructure development and linguistic inclusion in AI systems.
