Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The TRA’s new regulations aim to empower SMEs by simplifying the import and approval processes for telecommunications devices, including renewable type approval certificates and special procedures for SMEs. The amendments create a flexible regulatory environment to keep pace with market developments.
Ooredoo reported a 9% revenue growth in H1 2024, reaching KD346 million ($1.1 billion), driven by strong performance in Kuwait, Maldives, Tunisia, and Algeria. Customer base increased by 4% to 25.5 million, and EBITDA grew by 8% to KD125 million. Net profit attributable to NMTC decreased to KD25 million due to a one-time gain in H1 2023.
Egypt is set to revolutionize its mobile telecom sector with e-SIM technology and its first 5G network, promising enhanced connectivity, competition, and affordability.
Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and Ministry of Industry and Commerce signed an MoU with AP Moller-Maersk to develop a ship recycling industry. The initiative aims to promote safe and sustainable ship recycling, enhance economic growth, and support Bahrain’s sustainable development and carbon neutrality goals.
Morocco has given telecom companies a three-month deadline to identify all anonymous phone numbers or face suspension of these lines. This initiative aims to enhance security and accountability in the telecommunications sector by ensuring all phone numbers are properly identified and linked to their respective owners.
Algeria’s Ministry of Interior has partnered with Algérie Télécom to provide high-speed internet and fixed-line services to all primary schools, prioritizing low-income areas. This initiative aims to improve education and introduce digital skills to young students, supporting the country’s digital transformation efforts.
Ericsson extends its R&D collaboration with KAUST for two more years, focusing on next-gen telecom technologies, including 5G and 6G. The partnership, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, has produced significant advancements and will continue to explore new innovations, enhancing the kingdom’s ICT sector and talent development.
Egypt, Telecom Egypt, ITIDA, and Nokia have signed an MoU to create an IP Excellence Center, boosting Egypt’s digital infrastructure, innovation, and ICT exports. This partnership will enhance network automation, AI advancements, and software development, positioning Egypt as a global IT services hub.
Telecom Egypt and Hungary’s 4iG Group have signed a $600 million, 10-year agreement to build a fiber network in Egypt, providing high-speed internet to six million households. The project supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 and the “Digital Egypt” strategy, enhancing the country’s digital transformation efforts.
Oman’s telecommunications regulatory authority, with licensed providers, will begin phasing out 3G mobile services in July. This initiative aims to optimize spectrum resources and invest in advanced technologies, enhancing service quality and promoting digital transformation, while ensuring a seamless transition for users.