Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s telecom sector reports strong revenue growth but a dip in tax contributions amid policy shifts. Broadband penetration and 4G coverage continue expanding, while 5G rollout and fiberisation plans advance. Cybersecurity ranks improve, supported by regulatory reforms and initiatives enhancing digital safety and network quality.
GO Telecom signs a strategic agreement with Syria to upgrade its digital infrastructure, marking a key private sector step after Western sanctions ease. The partnership aims to rejuvenate Syria’s communications network and boost recovery through targeted infrastructure investments.
Turkcell and Huawei successfully completed the world’s first Full Duplex Radio Link trial on the 80 GHz E-band, achieving 50 Gbps speeds. This breakthrough technology enables simultaneous data transmission and reception, boosting 5G network performance and supporting Türkiye’s digital transformation and future-ready connectivity goals.
Lebanon negotiates with Starlink to launch satellite internet, aiming to improve connectivity and reduce high costs, benefiting multiple sectors amid longstanding telecom challenges.
Ethio Telecom and ZTE deployed a gigabit FTTR all-optical network at GERD’s office, improving connectivity and reducing costs. The solution enhances network management and supports Ethiopia’s digital transformation as GERD nears completion amid regional water concerns.
Starlink is expanding its Bangladesh operations through partnerships with Fibre@Home and others, developing ground stations and data centres while launching a reseller program targeting enterprise and government sectors. The initiative aims to accelerate broadband access, backed by regulatory support for bandwidth importation.
Algeria Telecom has launched an online survey to identify areas lacking fibre connectivity ahead of its 2026 FTTH expansion. With over 2 million subscribers, fibre still covers only 27% of households. The survey will help prioritize network growth based on citizen feedback and regional needs.
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications, Abdullah Al-Swaha, reviewed telecom readiness for Hajj, highlighting 10,500 Wi-Fi access points and near-total 5G/4G coverage at holy sites. He also praised 200+ tech volunteers supported by Awon Tech Society, underscoring efforts to ensure seamless connectivity for pilgrims.
Turkcell’s subsidiary TDC secured EUR100 million in interest-free murabaha financing from Emirates NBD to fund data center expansion and digital infrastructure projects. The agreement supports Turkcell’s growth strategy focused on eco-friendly, high-capacity data centers catering to cloud, AI, and big data demands in the MENAT region.
Zong participated in ITW 2025 to bolster global telecom partnerships, highlighting Pakistan’s resilient network and exclusive Hajj connectivity offerings. Strategic talks focused on voice, roaming, A2P SMS, and ICT services, reinforcing Zong’s commitment to advancing digital innovation and expanding international collaboration.