Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
stc has secured a SAR 3 billion Silklink project in Syria to deploy fiber infrastructure, data centers, and submarine cable landing stations, strengthening regional connectivity and supporting advanced digital services while expanding its cross-border infrastructure strategy.
China outlines plans to deploy gigawatt AI data centres in orbit within five years, integrating solar power, satellite constellations, and digital-intelligence infrastructure as part of its national AI strategy, while global players like SpaceX, Starcloud, and Madari Space explore similar space-based computing concepts.
Arabsat selects ACTIA to deploy Q/V-Band gateways for ARABSAT-7A, strengthening its shift to software-defined satellite architecture and enabling resilient, high-capacity broadband services across enterprise, mobility, aviation, maritime, and government sectors through advanced ground segment infrastructure and flexible routing capabilities across its regional footprint.
Oman’s MB Group is investing in a dedicated communications satellite with Astranis, marking a strategic shift from oil and gas into space infrastructure. With over $100 million committed and total space investments expected to exceed $200 million, the group aims to build regional connectivity, full digital sovereignty, and a scalable satellite platform for Oman and nearby markets.
Saudi Arabia is accelerating its push for sovereign AI by localising data centres, servers and manufacturing. Lenovo’s Lawrence Yu says building and operating AI infrastructure in the Kingdom ensures data control, security and scale, backed by a $2 billion Alat investment, a Riyadh HQ and a factory opening in 2026.
EBRD has approved up to €190 million in development-linked financing for Tunisie Telecom to accelerate 5G rollout, expand fibre connectivity to 200,000 homes, modernise core networks, and connect to the Medusa submarine cable. The package includes EU grants and marks Tunisia’s first non-sovereign public-sector financing since 2012.
Algeria is involving its start-up ecosystem in infrastructure projects to drive innovation and reduce technological dependence. A new joint commission will connect start-ups with infrastructure stakeholders, supporting digital solutions and creating skilled jobs as part of the country’s broader knowledge economy strategy.
Algeria advances intra-African trade by promoting major infrastructure projects like the Trans-Saharan Highway and gas pipeline, with Afreximbank backing key energy initiatives under AfCFTA.
Pakistan is enhancing its digital infrastructure with 26.5 Tbps of international connectivity through five submarine cable projects. Additionally, proposals are underway to expand satellite-based internet services, and the government is working on improving network security to optimize internet performance and reduce slowdowns caused by VPNs and DDoS attacks.
Tawal has partnered with Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN) to develop neutral digital infrastructure across 21 entertainment destinations in Saudi Arabia. The infrastructure will enhance 4G, 5G, and IoT capabilities, providing seamless connectivity and improved digital experiences. This strategic collaboration supports SEVEN’s SAR 50 billion investment in entertainment development.