Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Yaqoot by Zain KSA now enables visitors to Saudi Arabia to register their mobile SIM cards via the Ministry of Interior’s Absher app. This seamless digital solution eliminates the need for in-person registration, offering tourists and pilgrims a fully online experience for SIM activation and identity verification.
Dialog Axiata has launched a new real-time school van tracking service, enhancing student safety and operational efficiency. Leveraging GPS and 4G technology, parents can track their child’s van and receive alerts via SMS. The service benefits van operators by improving reliability and accountability. Devices cost LKR18,990, with a subscription fee of LKR1,910.
A four-day workshop on AI standards for telecommunications and ICTs has been launched in New Delhi, aiming to shape the future of digital infrastructure. The event, organized by ITU and NCA-F, brings together participants from BIMSTEC countries to discuss building globally harmonized AI standards for responsible growth and innovation.
Bassam Sarhan of Jordan’s TRC and Ahmed Al Muslimani of Qatar’s CRA discussed strengthening cooperation in postal and telecom sectors at the 2nd Arab Postal Leaders’ Forum 2025. The talks focused on enhancing infrastructure, sharing regulatory expertise, and supporting digital transformation to achieve strategic goals and regional integration.
Banglalink has increased the benefits of its mobile data, voice, and bundle packs by up to 25% in support of the government’s telecom reforms. The operator also provides unlimited access to platforms like Toffee, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok, offering more value to customers while promoting digital adoption in Bangladesh.
Turkcell successfully completed its first 5G test on an autonomous marine vehicle at TEKNOFEST TRNC in Cyprus, marking the first 5G connection from land to sea in the region. The test demonstrated the advantages of 5G’s low latency and high speed while showcasing domestic technology developed by the SuTech team.
Ooredoo Kuwait is advancing its telecom leadership by focusing on 5G, AI, and sustainability. The company is launching its 5G Advanced network, upgrading infrastructure with AI-powered solutions, and enhancing operations across critical sectors like healthcare and education. The initiative aims to support Kuwait’s digital economy and sustainability goals.
The Afghanistan Telecom Regulatory Authority (ATRA) has launched telecommunications services for returnees at the Omari Camp in Torkham. Temporary four-month SIM cards with free internet and call minutes are being distributed. Returnees must register their SIM cards using electronic IDs within the specified time frame.
Zain has approved a 35 fils cash dividend for 2024, amounting to KD151.4 million ($492 million), reflecting a 73% payout ratio. The company also extended its minimum 35 fils dividend policy through 2028. Zain’s 2024 results showed a 3% YoY revenue increase and a 15-year high in growth.
Sudatel Telecom Group reported a decline in net profits to $18.25 million for 2024, down from $21.27 million in 2023. Operating revenues also fell to $381.68 million, and total assets decreased to $758.79 million, reflecting a slowdown in the company’s financial performance.