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 Cash and Mastercard are partnering to expand digital payments in Jordan, including prepaid, credit, and SME solutions. The deal introduces an Innovation Hub to co-create services, advancing financial inclusion and supporting Jordan’s digital transformation while reinforcing Zain Cash’s leadership in fintech innovation.
Orange Jordan and Proparco concluded their Aqaba Coding Academy partnership with a 100% graduation rate. Over 1,000 youth have benefited since launch, with 80% employed. The program fosters digital skills, startup growth, and Aqaba’s vision as a regional innovation hub.
Jordan will pilot its first e-passport on September 1, offering biometric security, ICAO recognition, and online applications. The launch is part of a broader digital transformation strategy that includes new e-services and exploration of a central bank digital currency.
Jordanian game developer Nour Khrais has launched 962.Games, an online directory showcasing studios, indie developers, and academic programs in gaming. The platform aims to connect industry and education, attract investment, and elevate Jordan’s gaming sector on the global stage while fostering collaboration and visibility.
Orange Jordan graduated 49 students from its sixth Coding Academy cohort in Amman, as part of the YTJ-funded “Digital Upskilling and Employment Program.” With over 1,000 total graduates to date and 80% employment success, the program strengthens youth skills, supports startups, and links training with real job opportunities.
Jordan’s industrial exports grew by 6.3% in the first five months of 2025, reaching JD3.291 billion. Growth was led by the construction industries sector, while wood and furniture exports declined. Chemical industries, leather, knitting, and engineering sectors topped the export values.
Jordan has launched its 2026–2028 digital transformation strategy to align with national modernization goals, focusing on infrastructure, digital services, inclusion, and innovation. The plan sets five strategic pillars and a participatory governance model to build a secure, sustainable, and technology-driven economy.
Jordan will send 12 companies to the Intra-African Trade Fair in Algeria for the first time, targeting new markets and partnerships across Africa. The delegation spans multiple sectors and aligns with efforts to expand trade ties, enhance Arab-African cooperation, and diversify Jordan’s export destinations.
Zain Jordan funded AI startup LeafleX with 15,000 JOD and one year of logistical support, reinforcing its commitment to youth entrepreneurship and tech innovation in healthcare.
JPMC and APC signed a deal to build a fertilizer complex focusing on value-added phosphoric acid products in Aqaba and Al Shediyeh. The project aims to increase Jordan’s industrial value, diversify exports, create jobs, and support the Kingdom’s Economic Modernisation Vision.