Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Zain KSA has partnered with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to enhance the pilgrim experience through the ‘Direct Hajj’ program, providing 100% 5G network coverage and exclusive features via the Nusuk Hajj platform. This collaboration supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for improving services for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
Telecom Egypt is enhancing its infrastructure to meet the growing connectivity demands in the Middle East and Egypt. With strategic subsea cable investments, new data centers, and partnerships with global tech providers, Telecom Egypt is positioning Egypt as a regional digital hub to support the rise of AI, cloud, and IoT applications.
e& has partnered with DE-CIX to expand SmartHub IX in the Middle East, enhancing regional connectivity and driving the digital economy. This collaboration introduces remote peering services and strengthens cross-border connectivity. With infrastructure in Fujairah and Dubai, the partnership positions the UAE as a key digital hub in the region.
Ogero is upgrading Beirut International Airport’s public WiFi from WiFi 5 to WiFi 7, offering faster speeds and reduced congestion for users. While the upgrade is part of a broader digital infrastructure plan, concerns have been raised about prioritizing airport improvements amid ongoing telecom challenges in Lebanon.
Pakistan is exploring options for LEO satellite operators like Starlink to expand services, aiming to improve connectivity in rural areas. While HEO operators dominate the market, LEO satellites face regulatory challenges and infrastructure costs. The future of satellite internet in Pakistan hinges on aligning with legal and strategic requirements.
Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed met with delegations from e& UAE and the Ministry of Justice to discuss collaboration in digital infrastructure and judicial services. The discussions focused on enhancing Sharjah’s telecommunications sector, supporting e&’s advancements in AI and fibre-optic networks, and modernizing the judicial system in the UAE.
Edgnex Data Centers, a unit of Damac, is entering the US market with a $20 billion investment, marking a major step in its global expansion. The company aims to deliver 2000MW of data center capacity across Sunbelt and Midwest states, supporting cloud and AI growth in the US and beyond.
Nokia and stc Group have completed the first 1Tbps long-haul field trial in the MEA region, leveraging Nokia’s PSE-6s technology and stc Group’s DWDM network. This breakthrough will enhance Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure, supporting Vision 2030 goals, and improving network efficiency for cloud and AI services.
The UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has announced the allocation of the 600 MHz spectrum to IMT systems, marking a significant step for 5G expansion. This move will enhance coverage, improve connectivity in rural areas, and foster innovation in mobile AI, IoT, and smart cities.
stc Group achieved a milestone in Riyadh Season, with a 61% usage rate for its 5G network in Boulevard City. By integrating AI and robust infrastructure, stc enhanced the visitor experience and supported major growth in international roaming and network expansion. This highlights Riyadh’s role as a global tech hub.