Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Morocco is witnessing a significant surge in mobile and internet usage, with mobile phone subscriptions exceeding 55.4 million in Q1 2024 and an internet penetration rate of 103.5%. This growth reflects the country’s ongoing digital transformation, driven by improved telecommunications infrastructure and increasing affordability.
A new app developed by Virginia Tech and Medina Tech Ltd. aims to help Bangladeshi farmers identify and manage crop pests. The Groundnut IPM app provides crucial pest management information, using AI for real-time detection and GPS for location-based recommendations. The app, available in Bengali, is free and will be piloted to 1,000 farmers.
Dell Technologies and Presight have signed an MoU to develop AI and big data solutions, enhancing digital transformation in the UAE. The collaboration will focus on innovative edge, open RAN, and IoT analytics architectures, combining Presight’s AI expertise with Dell’s infrastructure solutions for sustainable and secure advancements.
In 2023, Oman managed over 460 cybersecurity incidents and resolved 241 cybercrime cases. The country processed over 30 million electronic transactions and deployed 4,566 5G stations. Investments in AI and space technology reached RO31.2 million and US$155 million, respectively, showcasing Oman’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation.
Saudi Arabia saw a 14% annual increase in expatriate remittances in April, totaling SR11.35 billion. Payments from Saudis also rose by 30%, reaching SR4.94 billion. This growth is driven by new development projects, improved economic conditions, digitalization, and supportive regulatory reforms, enhancing the ease of doing business.
Dubai has appointed 22 Chief AI Officers across government entities to lead AI-enabled government operations, as part of the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence (DUB.AI), aiming to establish the emirate as a global leader in AI innovation.
CST has qualified Aramco Digital for a Specialized Radio Network License in the 450 MHz band, aiming to serve industrial and business sectors with advanced wireless technologies, supporting digital transformation and enabling 4th industrial revolution applications and IIoT.
Mal Bazaar, an Egyptian insurtech startup, has acquired a licensed insurance brokerage and launched “My Policy,” a digital platform for corporate insurance management. With over 60,000 clients, the company aims to revolutionize the insurance industry through digital transformation and enhance customer experience.
PhonePe has partnered with PickMe to offer UPI-based payments for Indian travelers in Sri Lanka, enhancing convenience and security for tourists while supporting digital transformation in the country’s transportation sector.
A 74-year-old librarian in Djerba preserves over 1,600 ancient Ibadi manuscripts. Ibadis, historically persecuted, sought refuge in remote areas. Today, they use modern technology to digitize and protect their heritage, enriching Djerba’s cultural diversity.