Orange Egypt and Vodafone Egypt have officially launched the country’s first commercial 5G services, following the recent acquisition of new spectrum licenses in late 2024. This marks a major milestone in Egypt’s digital transformation journey aligned with Vision 2030 strategic goals.
Orange has initiated its 5G rollout by focusing on high-traffic areas with strong demand for faster upload and download speeds. The company collaborated closely with Egypt’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) to ensure compliance with international quality standards. Vodafone’s initial deployment covers 2,000 sites across several governorates, including Cairo and parts of Upper Egypt.
Vodafone has implemented an Adaptive Interference Free networking system designed to eliminate network interference and boost performance. Ayman Amiri, Chief Technology & Information Officer at Orange Egypt, highlighted that 5G technology will drive growth in critical sectors that rely on advanced digital infrastructure.
Mohamed Abdallah, CEO of Vodafone Egypt and Vodacom International Markets, emphasized that the launch supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 goals, which aim for sustainable development and enhanced quality of life through digital transformation and upgraded infrastructure across various business sectors such as finance and IT.
The spectrum licenses were awarded by the NTRA in October 2024, with three of Egypt’s four major operators—e&, Telecom Egypt, and Vodafone—securing 5G rights. Orange finalized its agreement after obtaining financing, including an $80 million loan from Banque Misr and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). Collectively, mobile network operators have invested $675 million in spectrum fees, including renewals extending licenses for 15 years.
While Orange and Vodafone have launched their 5G networks, e& and Telecom Egypt have yet to commence commercial 5G services. Both companies are expected to join the rollout in subsequent phases.
This 5G deployment signals a significant step towards Egypt’s ambition to foster a digitally empowered economy and society by upgrading its mobile network capabilities and expanding access to high-speed connectivity nationwide.
