Page 82 - SAMENA Trends - July-September 2024

ARTICLE SAMENA TRENDS

Spectrum allocation and usage
The 3.5 GHz band has been the most
commonly used spectrum band for 5G
services across the region, with operators
in all seven operational countries utilising
this band to deliver their high-capacity
networks. Additionally, some operators are
leveraging the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands
to enhance 5G coverage and capacity.

Qatar and the UAE have taken a pioneering
step by awarding spectrum in the 26 GHz
band to mobile operators, enabling them
to explore the potential of millimetre-wave
technology for ultra-high-speed services.

In addition to the existing allocations,
several countries have plans to release
more spectrum to support 5G. Saudi
Arabia is set to allow operators to acquire
additional spectrum in the 600 MHz, 1.5 All observed countries in the MENA region are trialling, preparing or have launched 5G services
GHz, and 3.8 GHz bands.
In Jordan, the regulator TRC required mobile Saudi Arabia has introduced a phased plan
Similarly, Bahrain's Telecommunications operators to cover 50% of the population to achieve an average 5G download speed
Regulatory Authority has announced plans within four years and 75% within nine years of 200 Mbps by 2025.
to auction additional spectrum in the 700 from the spectrum award date.
MHz, 1.5 GHz, 2.3 GHz, 2.6 GHz, and 3.8 Ten operators in the MENA region have
GHz bands. Qatar has set ambitious targets for achieved 5G network coverage that
nationwide coverage, while Omani exceeds 90% of the population. This
Coverage requirements and quality of operators were required to install 4,400 extensive coverage is a testament to the
service (QoS) standards base stations by 2024. region's commitment to advancing digital
Jordan, Oman and Qatar have established infrastructure, despite the varying speeds
5G coverage requirements, although their Coverage obligations and QoS requirements of rollout across different countries.
approaches vary significantly. in Saudi Arabia are not technology-based.

All observed countries in the MENA region are using 3.5 GHz

82 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2024