Page 81 - SAMENA Trends - July-September 2024

ARTICLE SAMENA TRENDS

ARTICLE

5G Rollout in MENA Accelerates with Widespread

Network Launches

5G deployment in the MENA region is progressing quickly. Operators
in some countries have already rolled out 5G networks with widely
available coverage, while others are preparing for future launches.
Regulators have adopted different strategies and approaches for
5G spectrum, coverage, and quality standards, highlighting each
market’s unique challenges and opportunities.

19 operators across seven observed MENA countries have
successfully launched commercial 5G services, marking significant
progress in the region's telecommunications landscape. These
seven countries are Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi
Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Ten operators in the MENA region have

achieved 5G network coverage that
exceeds 90% of the population. This
extensive coverage is a testament to the
region's commitment to advancing digital
infrastructure, despite the varying speeds
of rollout across different countries.

Other MENA countries have reached an advanced preparatory
stage. For instance, Egypt granted Telecom Egypt a 5G licence,
paving the way for its upcoming 5G service launch. Meanwhile,
the Tunisian Ministry of Communication Technologies launched
in June 2024 a call for tender to award the 5G licence, aiming for
Ali Hayajneh network rollout to start in 2025.
Senior Analyst
Cullen International In Algeria, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, and Türkiye, operators
have conducted several 5G trials, setting the foundation for future
commercial 5G launches.

81 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2024