Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Omantel has reported a rise in cyber and telecom threats targeting its subscriber base in 2024. The company successfully blocked millions of attacks, utilizing AI-driven security measures. Its mobile and broadband subscriber growth helped increase domestic revenue. Omantel continues to enhance its cybersecurity posture, securing its 5G and cloud infrastructure.
Dialog Axiata has been recognized as the ‘Telecommunication Brand of the Year’ for the 14th consecutive year and the ‘Service Brand of the Year’ for the 4th time at the SLIM-KANTAR People’s Awards 2025. These awards reflect the trust and strong relationship Dialog has built with Sri Lankans over the years.
Chaudhary Group’s CG Telecom won spectrum licenses in Moldova’s recent auction, bidding nearly 570 million rupees for two 20 MHz blocks in the 3600 MHz range. The auction raised 26.31 million euros, and the licenses granted to telecom companies will facilitate expanded mobile services in Moldova.
Telecommunications networks in Makkah and Madinah performed exceptionally during Ramadan, handling over 320 million calls. The 5G coverage reached 98% in Makkah and 99% in Madinah. Mobile data usage exceeded global averages, with speeds reaching 210 Mbps in Makkah and 278 Mbps in Madinah, ensuring seamless communication for worshippers.
Saudi telecom companies saw a 69% increase in net profits for 2024, reaching SAR 28.39 billion ($7.57 billion), driven by higher revenues, a growing customer base, and operational efficiency. Stc led with a profit surge of 85.7%, while Mobily showed growth, and Zain experienced a decline due to higher costs.
Nepal Telecom (NTC) is moving forward with plans to install a new Rs 5 billion convergent real-time billing system, aiming to streamline billing for all its services and improve customer care. The system will handle 34 million customers across various networks and services, enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Mobile number portability in Nigeria surged by 190% in January 2025, with 8,708 subscribers switching networks. 9mobile faced the highest losses, losing 6,716 customers, while MTN, Airtel, and Globacom benefited. This shift reflects dissatisfaction with service quality and pricing. The telecom sector saw overall growth in subscriptions.
TBH and Robi Axiata have partnered to introduce Web3-powered gamification to over 40 million users in Bangladesh. By integrating blockchain-driven rewards for content creation, data usage, and mobile interactions, the initiative aims to boost user engagement and drive new revenue streams for both companies.
Ooredoo shareholders approved a QR0.65 per share cash dividend after the company reported strong growth in 2024, with a 2% revenue increase and a 14% rise in net profit. Key developments include partnerships with NVIDIA, the launch of a new data center, and the acquisition of the ‘Fibre in Gulf’ subsea cable.
Robi Axiata posted a record profit of Tk 7.03 billion in 2024, a 119% increase year-on-year, despite a challenging market environment. Revenue grew by less than 1%, with voice and data revenue rising modestly. The company declared a 15% cash dividend, the highest since its market listing in 2020.