Egypt launches 2026–2030 telecom spectrum strategy with $3.5 billion frequency deal

CAIRO
February 9, 2026

Egypt has launched its telecommunications spectrum strategy for 2026–2030, supported by a $3.5 billion spectrum allocation agreement signed with the country’s four licensed mobile operators. The deal marks the largest frequency allocation in Egypt’s telecom sector since the introduction of mobile services and is aimed at expanding network capacity and supporting long-term digital growth.

Under the agreement, a total of 410 MHz of new frequency bands will be allocated, effectively matching the total spectrum assigned to mobile operators in Egypt over the past three decades combined. The move is expected to significantly increase available capacity, enabling operators to improve service quality and meet rising demand for data-driven services and digital applications.

The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) said the strategy represents a major step toward more efficient spectrum management and improved utilization of national frequency resources. The expanded spectrum is expected to strengthen fifth-generation (5G) readiness, enhance market competitiveness, and support the sustainability of telecommunications infrastructure as Egypt advances its digital transformation agenda.

Officials noted that the initiative aligns with Egypt’s broader digital strategy, aiming to attract investment, promote innovation, and reinforce the country’s position as a regional hub for communications and information technology. Separate agreements were signed with mobile operators to formalize the acquisition and deployment of the newly allocated frequencies.

The strategy also reflects ongoing regulatory efforts to modernize the telecom sector in line with international standards and recommendations from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), ensuring network efficiency and improved service delivery for consumers and enterprises.