Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s upcoming spectrum auction is expected to generate $300 to $700 million while accelerating 5G rollout, improving broadband speeds by 25 percent, expanding coverage, and strengthening fibre infrastructure nationwide.
Ookla’s 2025 Speedtest Global Index shows GCC markets leading MEA performance, while North Africa delivered the biggest ranking gains driven by 5G launches and accelerated fiber expansion. Bahrain and Oman also improved through regulatory changes and network investment. The analysis highlights that modernization, spectrum timing, and investment capacity matter more than urbanization alone.
Zong and Samsung have partnered to promote 5G-ready smartphone adoption in Pakistan through bundled offers, trade-in programmes, and integrated retail and digital channels ahead of the Galaxy S26 launch, supporting broader digital ecosystem growth and future 5G readiness.
Pakistan’s telecom regulator has mandated minimum first-round bids in its upcoming 5G auction to ensure serious participation from incumbent operators as the country prepares for next-generation spectrum allocation.
The UAE maintained regional leadership in internet speeds in 2025 as 5G rollouts across North Africa and regulatory interventions in GCC markets drove major shifts in connectivity rankings across the MEA region.
Morocco climbed sharply in global connectivity rankings after launching 5G, improving mobile speeds and fibre-driven broadband performance while reinforcing its position as North Africa’s leading mobile connectivity market.
Experts note that while other African markets can learn from the model, replicating it requires coordinated spectrum policy, device affordability, reliable power, and upfront capital. GSMA Intelligence projects that by 2030, 5G could account for more than 20% of Africa’s mobile connections, reaching nearly 390 million users.
Pakistan will hold its 5G spectrum auction on March 10 to ease network congestion caused by limited spectrum. With 130 million broadband users operating on 274 MHz, the move aims to improve Internet speeds and support the country’s expanding digital economy and rising IT exports.
Almadar Aljadid launches 5G in Tripoli, completing North Africa’s Mediterranean-wide transition to 5G as phased expansion aims to improve connectivity and enable digital services across key sectors.
Zain Kuwait earns ‘Best Telecom’ and ‘Most Innovative Telecom’ awards for 2025, recognizing its leadership in 5G-Advanced deployment, AI-driven network operations, Open RAN trials, and digital transformation initiatives that enhance infrastructure performance, customer experience, and support Kuwait’s digital economy ambitions.