Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
MFTA launches its Iraq chapter to advance fintech innovation and regulatory progress amid rapid digital transformation. Led by fintech pioneer Bahaa Abdul Hadi, the chapter will drive collaboration, inclusion, and integrate Iraq into the MENA fintech ecosystem.
Bahrain’s Ministry of Social Development collaborates with NBB and Atyaf eSolutions to create a digital platform that enhances service delivery and efficiency for civil society organisations, supporting national social development and transparency goals.
Africa’s telecom growth is driven by a young population and increasing digital demand. Key players like MTN South Africa, Vodacom, and MTN Nigeria lead in subscribers and innovation, while companies such as Safaricom and Maroc Telecom drive digital finance and 5G expansion. The continent’s telecom landscape remains dynamic and pivotal to Africa’s digital future.
UAE’s G42 Presight signed two MoUs with Côte d’Ivoire to collaborate on public administration modernization and national digital strategy, reinforcing bilateral cooperation in AI and digital innovation.
Saudi Arabia’s SDAIA and Shareek program signed an MoU to enhance AI-driven innovation and investment in the private sector, supporting Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and digital transformation.
Al Baida Group and Elm Company signed an MoU to collaborate on digital transformation projects in Qatar, combining Elm’s regional digital expertise with Al Baida’s strong local presence to support the country’s innovation and government digitalization goals.
Qatar’s MCIT highlighted its national digital priorities and AI initiatives at WSIS+20 Forum 2025, reinforcing its role in global digital cooperation and promoting inclusive, knowledge-driven digital societies.
Zong launched its locally hosted enterprise cloud platform, Z SAIS Cloud, in Karachi, establishing strategic partnerships and emphasizing cloud sovereignty as Pakistan accelerates toward a digital-first economy with scalable, secure infrastructure.
Communications spending in MEA surged to $149 billion in 2024, driven by mobile data demand and major telecom infrastructure investments, with continued growth expected amid evolving digital transformation and operator rebranding as technology companies.
Algeria Telecom and the National Chamber of Notaries have partnered to digitize notarial services, improving efficiency and accessibility as part of Algeria’s wider public sector digital transformation strategy.