Regional Regulatory Profiles

Afghanistan
  1. Telecom Licensing and Market Regulation: Afghanistan's telecom sector is undergoing restructuring, with efforts to stabilize the market and enhance service delivery. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) is developing regulations aligned with international standards.
  2. Mobile Internet Access: Efforts continue to expand broadband and mobile internet access in both urban and rural areas despite infrastructure challenges.
  3. 5G Development: Initial groundwork for 5G trials is in progress, with testing expected by late 2025 depending on political and security conditions.
  4. Infrastructure Expansion: The government is prioritizing rural network expansion to boost accessibility and connectivity.
Algeria
  1. 5G Licensing and Trials: The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPT) is preparing for a 5G spectrum auction, anticipated in 2025. Trials are planned in major cities.
  2. Market Structure: Policy discussions are underway to encourage consolidation and improve competitiveness in the telecom sector.
  3. Cybersecurity Regulations: The National Cybersecurity Agency has introduced stricter rules for telecom operators, including mandatory data retention and improved network protection standards.
Bahrain
  1. 5G Rollout: Bahrain remains one of the region’s 5G pioneers. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) continues to expand 5G coverage, with additional spectrum allocation expected in 2024.
  2. 5G-Advanced Deployment: The country aims to be among the first to adopt 5G-Advanced by 2026, enhancing mobile data speeds and reliability.
  3. Telecom Licensing Reforms: TRA has revised license structures to boost market competition and attract new entrants.
  4. Cybersecurity Regulations: Bahrain has enacted stronger cybersecurity laws for telecom operators, including obligations for encryption, data protection, and incident reporting.
  5. Connectivity & Telecom Regulation: Bahrain’s National Digital Economy & ICT Strategy (2022-2026) is driving growth in telecom infrastructure and digital services. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) reported that violations dropped significantly in 2024, showing improved compliance. The strategy also encourages investment in ICT start-ups and the development of a digital economy.
  6. Cybersecurity & AI: Bahrain places a strong emphasis on cybersecurity in its digital strategy, with a focus on building digital capacity. The country has trained 20,000 citizens in cybersecurity as part of its broader effort to secure telecom networks and devices. While AI-specific regulatory updates were not available, Bahrain’s efforts to strengthen digital resilience underscore its commitment to secure telecom networks and digital services.
Bangladesh
  1. 5G Spectrum and Trials: The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) is conducting 5G trials and plans a national rollout by 2025.
  2. Taxation Reform: Discussions are ongoing to lower taxes on telecom services and increase affordability.
  3. Cybersecurity: New directives require telecom operators to strengthen consumer data protection and network security.
Egypt
  1. 5G Spectrum Auction: The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) plans Egypt’s first 5G auction in 2024.
  2. Broadband Expansion: New rules promote infrastructure-sharing to expand connectivity in rural areas.
  3. AI and Digital Modernization: Egypt is integrating AI into telecom network operations to optimize service delivery and traffic management.
  4. Regulatory Overhaul: NTRA continues revising telecom rules to prepare for 5G rollout and enhance operator collaboration.
Iran
  1. Telecom Modernization: Despite sanctions, Iran is upgrading its broadband and preparing for a national 5G network by 2025.
  2. Cybersecurity and Encryption: New policies mandate telecom providers to adopt stronger encryption standards to mitigate cyber risks.
  3. Censorship and Data Localization: Enforcement of data control and internet filtering remains a key aspect of telecom regulation.
  4. Fiber Expansion: Large-scale fiber rollout continues under the Vision 2030 plan.
Iraq
  1. Spectrum Auctions: The Communications and Media Commission (CMC) is working toward auctioning 4G and future 5G licenses.
  2. Market Consolidation: Policies aim to reduce the number of telecom operators to improve service quality and sustainability.
  3. Cybersecurity Law: New laws criminalize cyberattacks and require stronger digital safeguards across telecom platforms.
  4. Iraq's digital development is still in the early stages, with significant strides made in recent years but many challenges remaining. While there has been an increase in internet penetration and mobile usage, the country faces issues such as low digital literacy, limited infrastructure, and a lack of reliable high-speed internet.
  5. In the field of AI, Iraq has started to explore its potential for applications in sectors such as healthcare, education, and government services, with some initiatives being led by local tech startups and universities. However, AI development faces challenges, including a lack of skilled professionals and research funding, as well as infrastructure limitations.
  6. The government, along with private sector investments, is working to increase fiber optic deployment to support faster and more reliable internet services.
Jordan
  1. 5G Spectrum Auction: Jordan is finalizing plans for a 5G auction (2024–2025) to expand mobile broadband capacity.
  2. Infrastructure Upgrades: Major investments in fiber optic and broadband networks are ongoing.
  3. Cybersecurity Regulation: New security rules require mandatory breach reporting and stronger encryption protocols for telecom providers.
Kuwait
  1. License Renewal and Competition: The Ministry of Communications is updating telecom licenses to increase competitiveness and innovation.
  2. 5G & 5G-Advanced Development: Kuwait’s 5G expansion is ongoing, with 5G-Advanced integration targeted by 2026.
  3. AI in Telecom: AI systems are being deployed for network monitoring, predictive maintenance, and customer service improvement.
  4. Cybersecurity: Enhanced regulations require encryption, breach reporting, and local data storage to protect critical infrastructure.
  5. Connectivity / 5G-Advanced / AI in Telecom: Kuwait has completed the nationwide deployment of 5G-Advanced across all major mobile operators, including Ooredoo, Zain, and stc. Ooredoo Kuwait is set to launch 5G-Advanced with upgrades that include network slicing, edge computing, and AI-powered network features to support sectors like ports, oil, and healthcare.
  6. Cybersecurity & AI: Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have signed a strategic agreement to enhance AI and IoT regulation across the GCC region. The country is also investing in strengthening telecom resilience and digital infrastructure, particularly in response to regional challenges.
Lebanon
  1. Telecom Reforms: The government is revisiting privatization plans for state-run operators and investing in fiber upgrades.
  2. 5G Planning: A tentative 5G auction is being prepared for 2025.
  3. Cybersecurity: The Ministry of Telecommunications is strengthening cybersecurity measures to address increasing data breaches.
Libya
  1. Infrastructure Rehabilitation: Libya is rebuilding its telecom infrastructure after years of conflict, encouraging private investment in new projects.
  2. Mobile Broadband: The Libyan Telecommunications and Technology Company (LTT) is expanding mobile broadband access.
  3. AI in Networks: Interest is growing in AI-driven solutions for network efficiency, especially in unstable regions.
Morocco
  1. 5G Trials: Morocco’s 5G trials are underway, with commercial rollout targeted for late 2025.
  2. Spectrum Reallocation: The ANRT is reallocating 4G spectrum and preparing a 5G auction.
  3. Cybersecurity Investment: Strengthened focus on data protection and digital infrastructure security.
Nepal
  1. 5G Launch: The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has set guidelines for 5G spectrum allocation, with launch expected by 2025.
  2. Infrastructure Expansion: Projects are underway to improve connectivity in remote areas through fiber and satellite systems.
  3. Cybersecurity Law: Telecom operators must comply with new cybersecurity standards and reporting requirements.
Oman
  1. 5G-Advanced and 5.5G Development: Oman aims to complete 5G deployment by 2025 and transition to 5.5G soon after, making it one of the Gulf’s early adopters.
  2. AI Integration: AI systems are being incorporated into telecom networks for performance optimization and automated customer support.
  3. Cybersecurity Compliance: Oman’s new regulations require telecom providers to adopt ISO/IEC 27001-compliant practices and advanced encryption technologies.
  4. Market Liberalization: Ongoing efforts to attract investment and strengthen competition in the telecom market.
  5. Connectivity & Telecom Regulation: Oman ranks 18th globally in the 2024 ICT Regulatory Tracker, reflecting improved telecom regulatory frameworks and stronger competition. In 2024, Oman's Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) reported increased regulatory enforcement, including fines for telecom violations. The Telecommunications & Information Technology Regulation Law is under review, signaling upcoming legal reforms to further strengthen the sector.
  6. Cybersecurity & AI: Oman held a national cybersecurity exercise in April 2024, testing the resilience of major telecom operators like Omantel and Ooredoo Oman. The Ministry of Transport, Communications, and IT (MTCIT) will unveil new cybersecurity and AI initiatives at COMEX 2025. In April 2025, Oman enacted the Electronic Transactions Law to enhance digital services, trust systems, and cryptographic protections.
Palestine
  1. Infrastructure Development: Despite regional constraints, Palestine continues to improve broadband access and telecom regulation.
  2. Cybersecurity: New legislation focuses on securing data and preventing cyber threats to telecom infrastructure.
Pakistan
  1. Spectrum Auctions: PTA is finalizing 5G spectrum auctions and expects trials to begin by late 2024.
  2. Regulatory Reform: New frameworks are being introduced to ensure quality of service and privacy protection.
  3. Data Protection: Digital privacy laws are being aligned with global standards to foster trust in telecom services.
Qatar
  1. 5G-Advanced Expansion: Qatar leads in 5G-Advanced deployment, achieving near-nationwide coverage and pushing network innovation.
  2. AI in Telecom: National telecoms are integrating AI for predictive analytics, smart service delivery, and automated maintenance.
  3. Cybersecurity Standards: CRA enforces advanced cybersecurity frameworks aligned with international standards.
  4. Telecom Transition: Qatar plans to retire its 3G network by December 2025, freeing up spectrum for more advanced 4G and 5G technologies.
  5. Connectivity & Telecom Updates: Qatar is set to retire its 3G network by 31 December 2025, freeing up spectrum for more advanced 4G and 5G networks. With 99% population coverage for 5G and fiber, Qatar ranks first globally in mobile internet speed. Ooredoo Qatar is finalizing its 5G Standalone (SA) rollout and expanding its data-center capacity with AI-powered platforms.
  6. Cybersecurity & AI: Qatar’s investment in AI and cloud infrastructure is reflected in Ooredoo Qatar’s efforts to enhance local data centers and support enterprise sectors. While no new cybersecurity regulation was found, the rapid network upgrades and cloud expansions suggest an increasing regulatory focus on data privacy and AI security.
Saudi Arabia
  1. 5G and 5G-Advanced: Saudi Arabia continues to roll out 5G services across its major cities and is preparing for 5G-Advanced deployment in the coming years.
  2. Vision 2030: The Saudi Vision 2030 plan emphasizes digital transformation, including telecom infrastructure improvements.
  3. Cybersecurity: Saudi Arabia has implemented strict telecom cybersecurity measures, including compliance with regional and international security frameworks.
  4. AI and Telecom: The Kingdom is focusing on integrating AI and big data analytics to improve telecom services, particularly for business and government sectors.
  5. 5G Rollout & Network Expansion: Saudi Arabia is aggressively expanding its 5G network, with significant investments to enhance mobile broadband speeds across the country.
  6. Vision 2030 & Telecom: Vision 2030 aims to modernize the telecom sector by fostering innovation, improving infrastructure, and promoting tech-based economic diversification.
  7. Cybersecurity & AI: In May 2025, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince announced the launch of Humain, an AI company backed by the sovereign Public Investment Fund (PIF), which will focus on AI infrastructure and Arabic-language LLMs (large language models). Additionally, the Global AI Hub Law draft, issued by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) in April 2025, emphasizes AI governance, data sovereignty, and digital economy leadership.
  8. Saudi Arabia's push for AI-driven connectivity and infrastructure investment positions it as a regional leader in both telecom and digital economy sectors. The focus on AI governance and data privacy will bring about more regulatory scrutiny, especially for network operators and digital service providers involved in advanced services and data processing. Cybersecurity regulations are also expected to tighten, especially as AI and IoT adoption increases.
Sudan
  1. The ongoing crisis in Sudan has had profound impacts on the country's infrastructure, including telecommunications, which has been one of the sectors most affected by the conflict.
  2. Sudan’s telecom infrastructure has long been in need of modernization. Even before the conflict, the country’s telecom sector was struggling with outdated equipment, limited coverage in rural areas, and a lack of investment in expanding broadband access. The conflict has compounded these issues, stalling any significant efforts to upgrade networks.
  3. While major cities like Khartoum have some level of connectivity, rural and conflict-affected areas experience severe isolation, with limited access to mobile or internet services.
  4. For any meaningful investment in Sudan’s telecom sector, a stable regulatory environment and political will are crucial. The Sudanese government, if it stabilizes, may attempt to reform the sector, possibly with the help of international financial institutions. However, given the lack of trust and the ongoing instability, this is a long-term prospect rather than an immediate solution.
  5. Given the challenges with traditional telecom infrastructure, there may be opportunities for satellite-based internet providers (like Starlink or other satellite service providers) to offer services, especially in remote or conflict-affected areas. This could address connectivity gaps in rural areas that are too difficult or expensive to reach via traditional methods.
Sri Lanka
Telecom Licensing & Market Regulation
  1. Sri Lanka's telecom sector is governed by the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL). The government is working on improving regulatory frameworks to attract more foreign investments and enhance competition in the sector.
  2. Telecom licenses for 4G and the upcoming 5G networks are being reviewed, with the aim of providing better spectrum management and quality of service.
5G Deployment
  1. Sri Lanka is planning its first 5G spectrum auction, which is expected to take place in 2025, with a commercial 5G launch anticipated by 2026.
  2. The country has already initiated limited 5G trials in major urban areas, which focus on high-speed internet and IoT services.
Cybersecurity & AI
  1. Sri Lanka has focused on enhancing cybersecurity by introducing new National Cyber Security Frameworks to protect digital infrastructure and consumer data.
  2. The government is also pushing for AI and machine learning solutions to be incorporated into telecom networks for better service optimization, fraud detection, and improved customer support.
Syria
  1. Post-Conflict Reconstruction: Syria is focused on rebuilding its telecom sector, primarily centered around restoring mobile and internet services.
  2. Cybersecurity: New directives emphasize securing digital services and protecting the country’s growing digital infrastructure.
Tunisia
  1. 5G Launch: Tunisia is preparing for a 5G rollout by 2025, with regulatory approval underway.
  2. Mobile Broadband: Expansion of 4G and 5G services is a key priority, with new spectrum licensing planned.
  3. AI Integration: Telecom operators are experimenting with AI for network optimization and customer experience enhancement.
Turkey
Telecom Licensing & Market Regulation
  1. Turkey's Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) is the main regulatory body overseeing the telecom market. The country's telecom laws are being adjusted to allow for more competition and innovation in the sector.
  2. In 2024, the government is expected to auction 5G licenses as part of its broader strategy to modernize its communications infrastructure.
5G Deployment
  1. Turkey is set to launch its 5G network by 2025, with initial trials already taking place in urban areas.
  2. Major Turkish telecom companies like Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Türk Telekom are preparing to invest heavily in 5G infrastructure, with special attention to boosting coverage in rural areas.
Cybersecurity & AI
  1. Turkey has established a Cybersecurity Strategy and is moving towards implementing AI-driven solutions to improve the management of its telecom networks and protect against cyber threats.
  2. The Personal Data Protection Authority (KVKK) regulates data privacy, with increased focus on safeguarding user data and telecom-related services.
  3. The government’s Digital Turkey Project focuses on integrating AI and big data to enhance digital services, such as e-government initiatives and smart city projects.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
  1. 5G / 5G-Advanced / 5.5G & Connectivity: The UAE continues to lead the way in telecom advancements, achieving a record 5G-Advanced speed of 62 Gbps ahead of GITEX 2024. Trials with the 6 GHz and 600 MHz bands have reached speeds of 10 Gbps, extending coverage beyond 6 km. In February 2025, du announced the deployment of its 5G-Advanced network, combining Sub-3 GHz and U6 GHz spectrum, achieving peak speeds of 10.56 Gbps. Additionally, in October 2025, e& UAE and Space42 entered an MoU to pursue 5.5G NTN (non-terrestrial network) connectivity, focusing on Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) and autonomous mobility use cases. e& UAE also enabled RedCap (Reduced Capability) on its 5G Standalone network, supporting mid-tier IoT devices like smart wearables.
  2. Cybersecurity & AI: e& UAE has partnered with Huawei to integrate AI capabilities into its 5G-Advanced core network, optimizing network performance and customer experience. With the rapid expansion of advanced connectivity, the UAE is increasingly focusing on cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard critical infrastructure, data privacy, and the growing digital economy.
  3. The UAE is at the forefront of the 5G-Advanced and 5.5G transition, leveraging next-gen connectivity to push innovation in autonomous vehicles, smart infrastructure, and IoT. As the country advances, the cybersecurity landscape is expected to evolve in tandem, with higher standards of security and regulatory oversight likely. Investors and operators can expect a high-tech ecosystem but must be prepared for stringent compliance requirements.
Yemen
  1. Telecom Recovery: Yemen's telecom sector is still rebuilding after years of conflict. Efforts are underway to restore and expand mobile and broadband access.
  2. Market Challenges: Yemen faces significant challenges in terms of infrastructure, security, and investment, but international partnerships may help address these gaps in the future.
  3. Cybersecurity and Regulation: Yemen's telecom regulatory body is focusing on enhancing the security and resilience of telecom networks amid ongoing challenges.

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