Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
LankaPay Technnovation Awards 2025 will recognize top innovations in digital payments across Sri Lanka’s financial sector. The awards aim to honor institutions driving digital transformation, financial inclusivity, and customer convenience. Categories include excellence in mobile applications, retail payments, and government digital payments, with the event supported by major global partners.
PayTabs Group has acquired a majority stake in PayTabs Egypt, expanding its digital payment solutions in the country. The acquisition will enhance PayTabs’ ability to support local businesses, financial inclusion, and Egypt’s transition to a cashless society, while continuing to strengthen its position as a regional leader in digital payments.
Visa’s report highlights Bangladesh’s growing digital payment adoption, with 14% increased spending and 17% more transactions in 2024. Dhaka leads this growth, while other cities like Gazipur and Rajshahi also show progress. Online and contactless payments drive the shift, with strong growth in both domestic and international transactions.
Robi Axiata has partnered with bKash to streamline financial management by using bKash’s B2B cash collection solution. This collaboration enables Robi’s distribution houses across Bangladesh to make cashless, secure, and transparent transactions, improving efficiency and promoting a digital transaction ecosystem in the country.
Nepal Telecom has reversed its decision to impose a minimum Rs 50 top-up amount for digital payments. Customers can now top up from as little as Rs 10 through mobile wallets and banking services like eSewa, Khalti, and IME Pay, improving flexibility for users.
Visa has introduced its Tap to Add Card feature in Kuwait, revolutionizing digital payments by allowing users to seamlessly and securely add Visa contactless cards to digital wallets. This feature enhances convenience, reduces fraud risk, and simplifies card onboarding for both users and issuers, supporting the future of frictionless payments.
Sadad has partnered with Mastercard to introduce a digital payment gateway in Qatar, powered by Mastercard Gateway. This collaboration enables merchants to offer secure and seamless transactions, enhancing customer experiences and reducing fraud. The platform supports over 30 payment methods, empowering local businesses with advanced payment solutions.
Bangladesh is rapidly adopting digital payments, with significant growth in both domestic and cross-border transactions, according to Visa. The shift towards online and contactless payments has seen a 14% increase in spending and a 17% rise in transactions, with Dhaka remaining the central hub for digital transactions.
Aani, the UAE’s central bank-backed instant payment platform, has enrolled 1.5 million users and is on track to drive further digital payments adoption. The platform facilitates real-time transfers via mobile numbers, emails, and QR codes, with plans for expanded features like QR payments for businesses, international remittances, and direct debits.
Basata has increased its stake in MadfoatCom to 25%, reinforcing its role in advancing digital payments and financial inclusion in Jordan. This collaboration, alongside Jordan Kuwait Bank and the Social Security Investment Fund, will drive innovative payment solutions for businesses and consumers, focusing on SMEs.