Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister emphasized the telecom and ICT sector as a cornerstone of economic growth, innovation, and competitiveness. Highlighting Bahrain’s use of modern technologies, he also praised the strong Saudi-Bahraini partnership, noting its continued role in advancing regional cooperation, digital development, and long-term economic progress.
Bahrain’s telecommunications regulator has authorised satellite direct-to-device services, allowing standard mobile phones to connect directly to satellites beyond terrestrial coverage. While commercial services are not yet live, the move positions Bahrain as a regional first and lays the groundwork for pilot deployments, emergency connectivity, and wider satellite-based communications.
Batelco has partnered with Cisco to modernize its IP backbone infrastructure, deploying advanced routing, automation, and monitoring technologies. The upgrade will enable AI-driven network operations and support 5G-Advanced, 6G, IoT, and cloud-native services, strengthening service performance and supporting Bahrain’s digital transformation goals.
Dialog Axiata has partnered with Starlink to deliver high-speed satellite internet across Sri Lanka, targeting underserved and remote regions. As an authorised Starlink agent, Dialog will provide low-latency connectivity alongside enterprise-grade support, strengthening national digital inclusion and expanding access beyond traditional network coverage.
Saudi stc Group has partnered with Qiddiya as the official connectivity provider for the Six Flags theme park, delivering advanced telecom services and smart city solutions. The collaboration will support seamless connectivity, visitor management, and digital experiences, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s tourism and entertainment infrastructure.
Pakistan’s telecom regulator has revised IoT and SRD regulations to support nationwide IoT growth through licensed and shared spectrum use. The framework introduces a new LPWAN licence, enables licence-exempt devices under strict conditions, enforces data localisation, and supports R&D trials, aiming to drive smart cities and industrial automation.
Nepal Telecom has launched 4G services in Simbokpa, Sankhuwasabha, bringing high-speed data and HD voice connectivity to a remote mountainous area. The deployment supports local development and tourism, aligns with NTC’s nationwide coverage goals, and advances Nepal’s broader digital inclusion efforts.
Orange will deploy connectivity, digital platforms, and AI-powered tools to support AFCON Morocco 2025, enhancing fan engagement through real-time content, multilingual assistance, and connected fan zones across Africa. The initiative highlights the growing role of telecom infrastructure in transforming sports consumption on the continent.
Algeria’s ARPCE has launched the e-Services digital platform to move administrative procedures online for the postal and electronic communications sectors. The portal allows remote submission and tracking of requests, improving efficiency, transparency, and data security while supporting the country’s broader public sector digital transformation efforts.
Batelco by Beyon has partnered with Cisco to modernise its IP Backbone infrastructure, introducing advanced routing, automation, and intelligent monitoring. The upgrade aims to improve network performance, enable AI-driven operations, and support future technologies such as 5G-Advanced, 6G readiness, IoT, and cloud-native services in Bahrain.