Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Syria’s Ministry of Communications has launched the SilkLink project, aimed at enhancing the country’s optical fiber infrastructure and establishing a regional internet hub. The project will connect Syria to Europe and Asia, improve regional connectivity, and support economic growth. It follows the “Ugarit 2” project to boost internet capacity.
Zain Jordan has partnered with Jordan Gate to provide comprehensive telecommunications services for the Sixth Circle Towers project. The agreement includes high-speed internet, VoIP, IPTV, and smart city solutions, enhancing the project’s digital infrastructure. The development promises to offer a tech-enabled environment for residents, businesses, and visitors in Amman.
Bahrain ranks first in the MENA and GCC regions in the Global Network Excellence Index, recognized for its advanced 4G/5G availability, fast download speeds, and reliable network quality. The achievement reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to digital excellence, with the TRA’s regulatory efforts playing a key role in this success.
Libya’s LPTIC has launched the “Medusa” submarine cable project, connecting the country to Europe through an 8,700-kilometer undersea cable. The project aims to enhance internet speed and quality in key cities, support 5G, and drive digital transformation by improving services and data governance across public institutions.
Iran plans to roll out 5G internet in major cities by March 2025, with a focus on metropolises. The government will auction radio frequencies needed for the expansion, and an agreement with South Korea will enable 5G on Samsung phones. The network will offer speeds up to 500 Mbps.
Jordan’s telecommunications sector saw strong growth in Q4 2024, with significant increases in mobile broadband subscriptions, 5G adoption, and data usage. Fixed-line call traffic and text messaging also saw substantial rises. Notably, 5G subscriptions grew by 800% compared to Q4 2023, reflecting continued digital transformation across the Kingdom.
DDoS attacks have surged across North Africa, with Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, and Algeria seeing increased activity in the second half of 2024. The telecom sector is particularly targeted, with sophisticated multi-vector attacks. The report highlights the need for improved cybersecurity measures as regional digital infrastructure expands.
Algérie Télécom is offering a limited-time promotion for new Idoom Fibre subscribers, providing one month of free 1000 Mbps internet, a free modem, zero installation fees, and a subscription rate of just 1000 DA. The offer runs from May 4 to June 3, 2025, and aims to enhance digital access.
Afghanistan’s Acting Communications Minister, Maulvi Najibullah Hayat Haqqani, and Chinese MCC officials discussed collaboration in telecommunications, technology, and AI to enhance operations at the Mes Aynak copper mine. Afghan personnel are being trained in AI to improve mine management, with assurances made to resolve telecommunications issues at the site.
Orange Group has announced a leadership reshuffle, appointing Yasser Shaker as Executive Vice President and CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA), effective July 1, 2025. This strategic move reflects Orange’s focus on accelerating regional growth, leveraging Shaker’s extensive experience to lead the company’s Middle East and Africa operations.