Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Qatar launched satellite internet services, becoming the first Arab country to do so, boosting network resilience and supporting the National Vision 2030’s digital transformation goals. The technology benefits sectors like education and healthcare, with Qatar Airways demonstrating its practical impact.
Starlink is set to launch satellite internet services in Pakistan by late 2025. The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board is finalizing licensing rules, with Starlink leading applications. Other firms like Amazon and OneWeb are also interested in entering Pakistan’s satellite internet market.
Qatar now enjoys nationwide access to Starlink satellite internet, enhancing connectivity for consumers, businesses, and aviation passengers, and positioning the country as a Middle Eastern digital pioneer.
Starlink has officially launched its high-speed satellite internet service in Sri Lanka following regulatory approval. The service offers faster connectivity and broader coverage, including remote areas, marking Sri Lanka as the third South Asian country with Starlink access. The launch is part of Starlink’s global expansion, providing reliable internet through its extensive satellite constellation.
Intelsat and the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative are bringing satellite internet to ten community learning centres in South Sudan and Uganda, enabling access to digital education in underserved and conflict-affected areas. This collaboration supports WPDI’s mission to foster peace and community development by expanding educational resources and digital literacy.
Pakistan’s IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja spotlighted satellite internet’s role in bridging the digital divide, praised key organizations expanding connectivity, and called for unified investor strategies and digital literacy to advance Pakistan’s digital future.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun invited Elon Musk to Beirut after Musk expressed interest in Lebanon’s telecom sector. Discussions around Starlink satellite internet highlight hopes for improving Lebanon’s unstable telecom infrastructure amid financial and reconstruction challenges.
Sri Lanka will begin Starlink internet service with a one-week trial monitored by TRCSL and the Ministry of Defence. Following technical review, the country plans to expand Starlink access nationwide.
Alghanim Industries has launched Sama X as the official Starlink reseller for MENA and surrounding regions, aiming to expand access to high-speed satellite internet through cutting-edge space technology combined with local market expertise. This strategic move supports digital inclusion, bridging connectivity gaps for remote and underserved communities and accelerating digital transformation across multiple sectors.
Lebanon negotiates with Starlink to launch satellite internet, aiming to improve connectivity and reduce high costs, benefiting multiple sectors amid longstanding telecom challenges.