Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Iran plans to roll out 5G internet in major cities by March 2025, with a focus on metropolises. The government will auction radio frequencies needed for the expansion, and an agreement with South Korea will enable 5G on Samsung phones. The network will offer speeds up to 500 Mbps.
All schools in Buraimi Governorate are now connected to high-speed Internet, with 100% coverage via fiber optics and 5G. Residential areas also benefit from 5G and fiber-optic broadband, with satellite services for remote villages. TRA has expanded 5G and 4G stations and completed 32 telecom projects in 2024.
Jordan’s telecommunications sector saw strong growth in Q4 2024, with significant increases in mobile broadband subscriptions, 5G adoption, and data usage. Fixed-line call traffic and text messaging also saw substantial rises. Notably, 5G subscriptions grew by 800% compared to Q4 2023, reflecting continued digital transformation across the Kingdom.
Omantel has successfully completed a trial of self-operating Passive IoT technology, which uses ambient energy sources instead of batteries. The trial, conducted over Omantel’s 5G network, demonstrated the potential for Passive IoT to transform industries like logistics and healthcare with minimal maintenance and extended device lifespans.
Ooredoo Kuwait is advancing digital transformation with its 5G, AI, and sustainability initiatives. The company has launched its 5G Advanced network, incorporated AI in network operations, and emphasized sustainability through green communication practices. Ooredoo’s commitment to innovation and sustainability aims to create lasting societal impact and strengthen its position as a telecom leader.
Morocco is set to launch its 5G mobile network in November 2025, aiming for 25% coverage by year-end and 70% by 2030. The rollout will drive innovation across industries, backed by partnerships between Maroc Telecom, Inwi, and Orange Morocco, positioning Morocco as a regional leader in digital transformation.
Turkcell successfully completed its first 5G test on an autonomous marine vehicle at TEKNOFEST TRNC in Cyprus, marking the first 5G connection from land to sea in the region. The test demonstrated the advantages of 5G’s low latency and high speed while showcasing domestic technology developed by the SuTech team.
Ooredoo Kuwait is advancing its telecom leadership by focusing on 5G, AI, and sustainability. The company is launching its 5G Advanced network, upgrading infrastructure with AI-powered solutions, and enhancing operations across critical sectors like healthcare and education. The initiative aims to support Kuwait’s digital economy and sustainability goals.
The MENA mobile market is projected to reach $360 billion by 2030, driven by mobile internet use, mVAS services, and rapid 5G adoption. With growing local content and network investments, the region faces challenges like connectivity gaps and regulatory issues but remains a key growth market for mobile services.
Morocco will launch 5G technology in November 2025, aiming to cover 25% of the population by 2025 and 70% by 2030. The rollout will enhance key sectors like transportation, smart homes, and agriculture. This initiative supports Morocco’s “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy and prepares the country for the 2025 AFCON and 2030 FIFA World Cup.