Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Starlink has made its satellite internet service free for users in Iran amid protests and state-imposed internet blackouts. The move allows terminals to operate without payment, bypassing censorship and reinforcing Starlink’s growing role as a geopolitical tool enabling uncensored connectivity in authoritarian environments.
Qatar has opened a public consultation on revising spectrum fees, introducing new pricing for emerging services such as direct-to-device satellite connectivity and extending fee frameworks above 40 GHz. The move signals a shift toward benchmarking satellite pricing against mobile spectrum, positioning Qatar as a forward-looking regulator shaping future satellite and 6G markets.
The launch of Satellite Direct-to-Device services positions Bahrain as the first GCC country to authorise mobile-to-satellite connectivity. The initiative allows standard mobile phones to connect beyond terrestrial networks, including maritime areas, enhancing safety, resilience, and nationwide connectivity while reinforcing Bahrain’s role as a regional leader in advanced telecommunications.
Bahrain’s telecom regulator has opened consultations on a framework to allow mobile phones to connect directly to satellites, boosting coverage, safety, and resilience. The move positions Bahrain as a regional leader in digital connectivity and innovation.
Oman Lens will launch its second satellite by 2026, offering 50 cm resolution imaging to advance Earth observation and support Oman Vision 2040. Building on OL-1’s success, the mission is part of a planned 20-satellite constellation to provide advanced geospatial intelligence for government, business, and research.
The DRC is advancing a $400 million satellite project with Monacosat to expand nationwide internet access, targeting rural areas and boosting digital services. With internet penetration below 25%, the initiative aims to close the connectivity gap and diversify the economy beyond mineral dependence.
Rakuten Mobile and AST SpaceMobile have successfully completed the first-ever broadband video call between unmodified smartphones in Japan using a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite. This achievement paves the way for expanded mobile coverage in remote and disaster-affected areas, with plans for broader satellite-to-mobile broadband services in Japan by late 2026.
Al Munther, Bahrain’s first national satellite, has successfully entered its operational phase. Launched on March 15 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the satellite’s core systems are functioning as expected. Testing continues on critical systems, including communication and orientation, paving the way for its scientific and technical missions.
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.
Space42 has successfully launched the Thuraya 4 satellite, marking a key milestone in enhancing its mobile satellite services. The satellite, launched with SpaceX’s Falcon 9, expands coverage across the MENA region, boosting secure connectivity and satellite solutions for defense, government, and enterprise sectors, aligning with the UAE’s Space Strategy 2030.