Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Nokia and stc Group have completed the first 1Tbps long-haul field trial in the MEA region, leveraging Nokia’s PSE-6s technology and stc Group’s DWDM network. This breakthrough will enhance Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure, supporting Vision 2030 goals, and improving network efficiency for cloud and AI services.
Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has approved changes to BNET’s services, increasing fibre broadband speeds more than twofold at no additional cost to consumers. This move supports Bahrain’s goal of becoming one of the most connected nations globally, maintaining competitive pricing while fostering economic growth through improved digital connectivity.
SLT-Mobitel has successfully landed the SEA-ME-WE 6 submarine cable in Matara, Sri Lanka, marking a significant step in enhancing the country’s global connectivity. The cable, offering 130 Tbps of high-speed connectivity, will be operational by mid-2026, positioning Sri Lanka as a key player in the global telecommunications network.
Pakistan’s mobile subscribers reached 193 million by November 2024, with significant growth in broadband usage. The government has also cracked down on misinformation, blocking 86,000 SIMs involved in anti-state activities and restricting VPN usage. Amendments to the Electronic Crimes Act are expected to combat fake news more effectively.
Logar Province will soon launch the Fiber to the Home (FTTH) Internet project in Pul-e-Alam city, covering 11,781 meters across six districts. Afghan Telecom will implement the project, aiming to provide high-quality internet to households. The initiative will first focus on the provincial center before expanding.
The PTA has confirmed that internet disruptions in Pakistan are due to a fault in the AAE-1 undersea cable, located near Qatar. The cable connects Pakistan to several international networks, and efforts are underway to repair the issue. Users may continue experiencing slowdowns and connectivity problems across the country.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of Oman has set a 6% cap on non-Omani employment in network operations centres (NOCs). Licensees have eight months to comply, with progress reports required. The initiative promotes Omanisation, creating job opportunities for Omani professionals and advancing their skills in the telecommunications sector.
Egypt has introduced a new electronic system aimed at promoting local mobile manufacturing and ensuring fair competition in the telecom market. The system, accessible via the “Telephony” app, enables citizens to register imported mobile phones, check fees, and protect against counterfeit devices. This initiative supports economic growth and consumer protection.
Viettel High Tech has signed a $1 million deal with High Cloud Technologies to supply 5G systems in the Middle East. This partnership includes the provision of 4G and 5G base stations and cloud-based infrastructure. The goal is to improve telecom coverage, particularly in rural areas, and enhance regional development.
The Bangladesh government has proposed a new telecommunications act, aiming to regulate social media, online platforms, and internet-based services. The draft introduces penalties, mobile court enforcement, and a regulatory sandbox for innovation. Industry experts express concerns about its impact on innovation and small businesses, particularly in the broadband sector.