Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
LG Uplus has partnered with Zain Group to expand its AI service, ‘ixi-O,’ into the Middle East. The collaboration aims to enhance telecommunications in Saudi Arabia and other regions by integrating AI features like voice phishing detection, caller identification, and call recording, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
The PMA and Jawwal have signed an agreement to enhance telecommunications solutions supporting Palestine’s banking sector. The initiative includes high-speed fiber-optic networks and internet services to improve connectivity and secure communication channels, contributing to the sector’s digital advancement and economic stability in Palestine.
Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General Hafeez Ur Rehman, represented Pakistan at the GSMA roundtable on spectrum challenges at the Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona. He emphasized global collaboration for equitable spectrum allocation and advancing telecom infrastructure to bridge digital divides.
Zain Group has reported record revenue of KD2 billion ($6.4 billion) for FY2024, marking a 3% YoY growth. The company’s net income increased by 15%, and its EBITDA reached KD689 million ($2.25 billion). Zain also recommended a cash dividend of 35 fils per share for the year.
Pakistan’s telecom sector is hindered by political instability, low returns, and a dollar-based spectrum auction fee. Slow internet speeds caused by firewall installations have impacted IT businesses, leading many to relocate. Additionally, the mismatch between revenue in rupees and dollar-denominated fees worsens the financial challenges faced by the industry.
Telecommunications Minister Charles Hajj and U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson discussed Lebanon’s reconstruction and bilateral relations during a recent meeting. Hajj stressed the importance of stability and urged the U.S. to pressure Israel to withdraw from the five points it still occupies, citing the need for progress.
Zain Bahrain has tripled internet speeds for its fiber plans, now offering speeds up to 2 Gbps. This upgrade ensures faster browsing and better connectivity for both new and existing customers, supporting Bahrain’s digital transformation and enhancing the digital lifestyle for businesses and households.
stc Group reported strong FY 2024 results, with an 85% surge in net profit reaching SAR24.7 billion. The company saw revenue growth of SAR75.8 billion and made significant strategic moves, including launching a digital bank, expanding in Telefónica, and enhancing its infrastructure offerings. Cash dividends of SAR3.75 per share were declared.
Robi Axiata reported its highest-ever profit for 2024, with a 119% increase in profit to Tk703 crore. The company also proposed a 15% cash dividend to shareholders, marking its largest payout since 2020. Despite challenges, Robi continues to invest in digital infrastructure and maintain a strong 4G network.
Algérie Telecom has launched a variety of Ramadan offers to enhance internet services, including discounts on modems, extra subscription days, and data packages for customers. The company also introduced the “IDOOM El Khir” solidarity caravan to distribute food to charity restaurants, reaffirming its commitment to digital access and social responsibility.