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 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.
Iraq has suspended its national 5G project after a dispute between the CMC and the Ministry of Communications over implementation and exclusivity. The move follows a €6 million deal with Vodafone and pauses plans to launch a state-backed 5G operator backed by public institutions.
ZTE and Ooredoo Algeria showcased the country’s first wave of 5G through live demonstrations and real-world applications, marking a major milestone in Algeria’s digital journey and laying the foundation for nationwide 5G commercialization and industry transformation across manufacturing, agriculture, and education.
Nearly 80 percent of mobile phones in Pakistan already support key 5G frequency bands, according to PTA sources, as the country prepares for its first 5G spectrum auction. The release of new spectrum is expected to boost 4G speeds and enable commercial 5G services in major cities within months.