The market for drones in the GCC is expected to reach US$ 1.5 billion by 2022, presenting a massive opportunity for regional telecom operators, according to Strategy&, formerly Booz & Company, and part of the PwC network. By leveraging their capabilities and resources, these companies can play a central role in the development of the regional drone industry.
HRH prince Faisal bin Mishaal Al Saud, governor of Qassim, stated that "Saudi Telecom Company (STC) services emulate the best global peers, and we see innovation and quality of services on our national company."
Mahindra Comviva announced that it is betting big on the Middle East region with its expanded portfolio of digital content. The company has entered into a partnership with Saregama - India's leading end-to-end entertainment solution provider. The partnership will allow Mahindra Comviva to cater to its clients in the Middle East by leveraging Saregama's extensive library of digital content targeting the SE Asian Diaspora as well as Arabs.
Etisalat announced the Asia-Africa-Europe-1 (AAE-1) undersea cable, the largest global submarine cable system bringing additional international capacity to UAE connecting Europe and Far East.
Etisalat, which controls a 13 percent market share in Nigeria, has had a running battle with a consortium of 13 banks since March after it notified them of its inability to service its $1.2 billion debt in February.
Etihad Etisalat (Mobily) represented by its Business Unit, signed an agreement with Al Khafji Joint Operations to provide its backup servicers to the company at a ceremony held recently in Al Khafji City.
PCCW Global, the international operating division of HKT, Hong Kong's premier telecommunications service provider, announced the landing of the high-capacity Asia Africa Europe-1 (AAE-1) cable in Hong Kong.
Bango, the leading mobile payments company, announces that it has enabled mobile operator Viva Kuwait to upgrade its Google Play carrier billing from a direct integration to the Bango Platform. Kuwaiti customers will enjoy the enhanced performance delivered through the Bango Platform, while developers selling through the Google Play store in Kuwait will see increased sales from Viva customers through the Bango Boost program.
VIVA, Kuwait's fastest-growing and most developed telecom operator, launched new innovative roaming voice and internet plans covering the GCC and Arab countries including Lebanon, in addition to many tourist destinations in the world.
CEO of Etisalat Group, Mr. Hatem Dowidar, has issued a public statement highlighting the reasons it has taken the difficult decision of exiting the Nigerian market. According to the Etisalat CEO, despite the fundamentals to support growth and increase mobile penetration, Nigeria’s macroeconomic conditions, steep currency, devaluation and market challenges have subsequently had a detrimental impact preventing ‘EMTS’ continuing its ambitious growth plan.
