Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Saudi Arabia leads globally in mobile shopping with two-thirds of purchases via smartphones but faces high payment failures and friction, despite advanced infrastructure under Vision 2030. The kingdom’s digital payment adoption is strong, yet user experience issues reveal gaps needing urgent attention for seamless cashless transition.
Orange Tunisia and Flouci have partnered to enhance mobile payment services. Orange customers can now top up their mobile and internet plans instantly through the Flouci wallet, integrated into the Max It app. This collaboration aims to expand digital payment solutions, offering a secure and user-friendly experience.
Bangladesh Bank has authorized mobile operators to accept local currency (taka) payments for international roaming services, simplifying the process for travelers. Customers can pay up to Tk 6,000 per trip and Tk 30,000 annually, with conditions for payment activation. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on foreign payment mechanisms.
Qatar Central Bank has introduced the ‘Multiple Wallets per Mobile Number’ feature in the Qatar Mobile Payment system, enabling users to manage two wallets with different service providers. This feature enhances user experience, fosters competition, and supports financial inclusion, reinforcing QCB’s commitment to advancing mobile payments in the country.
Qatar Central Bank has introduced the ‘Multiple Wallets per Mobile Number’ feature in the Qatar Mobile Payment system, allowing users to open two wallets under different payment service providers. This initiative enhances user experience, supports competition and innovation, and promotes financial inclusion in line with the Third Financial Sector Strategy.
Robi and Airtel users can now link their bKash accounts to the “My Robi” and “My Airtel” apps for easy, PIN-free payments. bKash has also become a preferred payment partner, allowing customers to purchase plans and open bKash accounts directly within the apps, enhancing digital payment convenience and security.
Ant International has partnered with LankaPay to enable cross-border mobile payments via Alipay+ in Sri Lanka. Travelers from 10 countries can now use mobile payment apps at over 400,000 merchants across the country, enhancing payment convenience for tourists and boosting local businesses, with a focus on tourism-driven growth.
Nepal Telecom has urged customers to use mobile data for digital payments instead of public WiFi, citing security risks. Public WiFi exposes users to fraud and hacking, while mobile data offers a more secure option. NTC also offers affordable data packs to encourage safer transactions.
Akurateco has partnered with DineroPay to advance mobile payments in Saudi Arabia, launching Apple Pay and Google Pay tailored to the local market. The collaboration focuses on secure, scalable solutions with network tokenization and full compliance with Saudi regulations, positioning both companies at the forefront of digital financial innovation in MENA.
Akurateco and DineroPay have partnered to advance mobile payments in Saudi Arabia. By implementing Apple Pay, Google Pay, and network tokenization technology, the collaboration aims to enhance security and scalability in mobile transactions, aligning with regulatory requirements and supporting the region’s transition toward digital-first financial solutions.