Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
King Mohammed VI has appointed General Abdellah Boutrik as head of Morocco’s DGSSI, strengthening the nation’s cyber defence capabilities. The move underscores digital security as a top national priority, with Boutrik tasked to lead an updated cybersecurity strategy amid rising attacks and infrastructure vulnerabilities.
Morocco is investing nearly MAD 10 billion under Digital Morocco 2030 to expand AI adoption, create 240,000 jobs, and strengthen innovation in finance and healthcare. Despite challenges, the country is emerging as a North African leader in AI-driven digital transformation.
Morocco’s mobile subscribers climbed to 58.8M and internet subscriptions reached 41.2M by mid-2025, pushing penetration rates to 159.5% and 111.8% respectively. The figures highlight Morocco’s rapid digital adoption and heavy media engagement, with citizens spending nearly six hours daily on media.
Spain has contracted Vodafone UK to provide communications services for the expert team studying the proposed Gibraltar Strait tunnel to connect Spain and Morocco. The two-year deal, worth over €29,000 annually with taxes, ensures secure, continuous connectivity for the project’s ongoing feasibility work.
A new mobile app is digitizing Morocco’s traditional daret savings circles, offering real-time management, reminders, and accessibility for unbanked users. By modernizing this centuries-old practice, the initiative could reduce financial exclusion, improve trust, and support Morocco’s wider push to formalize its shadow economy.
The WTO praised Morocco for its leadership in trade, sustainability, and women’s empowerment, citing its role since the 1994 Marrakech Agreement. Success stories like Doum for Women highlight local impact, while new digital trade and investment agreements promise further opportunities for Morocco’s economy.
Morocco has joined the world’s top 15 automotive producers, reaching one million vehicles in 2025. Backed by Renault, Stellantis, and major port infrastructure, the Kingdom is Africa’s automotive leader and a growing competitor to Europe, combining investment appeal with a skilled workforce.
Revolut has applied for regulatory approval in Morocco, aiming to disrupt the country’s banking sector with mobile-first, zero-fee financial services. With €41B valuation, 60M users, and strong profitability, the neobank sees Morocco as a strategic MENA gateway following its South Africa launch.
IBA Group and Berexia Payment have partnered with Al Barid Bank and Royal Air Maroc to launch a SoftPOS solution in Morocco, enabling merchants and airlines to accept contactless payments via smartphones and tablets. The move strengthens Morocco’s digital payments growth and enhances passenger travel experiences.
Morocco’s ADD and DWTC are expanding their GITEX Africa partnership to boost Africa’s digital leadership. The event has become a key hub for startups and investors, supporting Morocco’s Digital 2030 goals and 5G rollout ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.