Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bangladesh’s internet penetration rate has been steadily declining, reflecting slower connectivity growth. A drop in mobile broadband subscriptions, alongside stable fixed broadband figures, highlights concerns over accessibility and affordability. Experts emphasize the need for improved network quality, cost reduction, and expanded infrastructure to address these challenges.
Mohammad Mehdi Hadavi visited the Iranian Electronic Industries Company, highlighting the importance of knowledge-based companies in advancing telecommunications and space technology. The company’s achievements include the development of domestically produced telecommunications processors, which aim to replace foreign models and enhance security, adaptability, and data safety for the Iranian telecom sector.
Bangladeshi firms have partnered with Starlink to establish earth stations across the country, aiming to provide reliable internet, especially in remote areas. The collaboration involves space allocation, construction support, and infrastructure maintenance, with a goal to implement the model within the next 90 days to overcome connectivity challenges.
Huawei has signed a cooperation agreement with Telecom Egypt to enhance ICT infrastructure in preparation for 5G services in Egypt. The partnership introduces advanced outdoor and indoor solutions, supporting Telecom Egypt’s goal of becoming a leading ICT operator and fostering digital transformation with the latest 4G/5G technologies.
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.