Etihad Salam Telecom and EdgeNext have partnered at LEAP 2025 to enhance telecommunications in Saudi Arabia. The collaboration includes co-locating servers, procuring high-speed internet services, and facilitating a peering connection with the Saudi Internet Exchange, aiming to improve content delivery and network efficiency in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Eng. Ahmed Al-Anqari of Etihad Salam Telecom discussed innovations in telecommunications at LEAP 2025. He highlighted the company’s focus on supporting SMEs, promoting sustainability through eco-friendly solutions, and providing advanced technologies to drive digital transformation. Etihad Salam aims to contribute significantly to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Tawal has partnered with Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN) to develop neutral digital infrastructure across 21 entertainment destinations in Saudi Arabia. The infrastructure will enhance 4G, 5G, and IoT capabilities, providing seamless connectivity and improved digital experiences. This strategic collaboration supports SEVEN’s SAR 50 billion investment in entertainment development.
Zain Kuwait and Parallel Wireless have achieved a milestone in 5G with a successful standalone (SA) proof of concept, demonstrating download speeds over 1.3 Gbps and energy savings of 35%. The trial highlights open RAN’s potential, showcasing scalability, efficiency, and sustainability towards Zain’s net-zero goals by 2050.
In 2024, Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) conducted 148 inspections and reviewed over 11,400 telecom device import applications. Violations related to imports decreased significantly, reflecting improved compliance. TRA emphasized the importance of licensing and adhering to technical regulations to prevent interference and ensure optimal use of the frequency spectrum.
The Oman Shura Council has referred the Telecommunications and IT Regulation Law to the State Council for further review, aiming to modernize the sector’s regulatory framework. The session also saw approvals for maritime transport agreements and initiatives for World Heritage site development and enhanced personal communication channels.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) transferred JD175 million to the Treasury in 2024. The report highlights key regulatory activities, including the issuance of type approvals, device entry approvals, and exemptions for 5G infrastructure. Jordan’s global rankings in mobile and fixed internet speeds were also mentioned.
Grameenphone Ltd reported strong financials in 2024, with a 60% EBITDA margin and a 20% profit margin. However, subscriber losses and economic challenges, including inflation and increased taxes, pressured growth. The company made strides in digitalization and sustainability, with significant investments in CapEx and renewable energy.
Iran and Oman have signed an MOU to enhance data transit between their countries, increasing capacity to 4.5 terabits per second. This collaboration strengthens Iran’s role as a regional data hub, optimizing infrastructure and reducing transmission costs, while boosting Iran’s position in the global digital economy.
In 2024, Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) conducted 148 inspections and reviewed 11,423 import license applications. Violations related to telecommunications imports dropped, reflecting improved compliance. The TRA’s proactive inspections, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, ensure adherence to technical regulations, preventing interference and supporting Bahrain’s telecom infrastructure.
