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The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has built some of the world’s most advanced 5G networks. By September 2026, 17 of the region’s 24 markets had launched commercial 5G. GSMA Intelligence forecasts 5G connections to rise from 67 million in 2025 to almost 350 million by 2030. Yet 5G monetisation remains a challenge across the region, with ARPU growth broadly flat – even as operators prepare to invest a further $53 billion between 2026 and 2030 in 5G standalone and 5G-Advanced.
This research examines which consumer and enterprise monetisation models are working across MENA, from volume- and speed-based pricing to fixed wireless access, private networks and AI services. It explains why results differ between advanced, growth and future-launch markets, and how spectrum pricing, tariff regulation and device affordability shape what operators can offer.
With the first 6G specifications expected by 2029, the window to earn a proportionate return on 5G is narrowing. The debate is no longer about building 5G networks but whether operators can make 5G pay for itself.
Report details
5G monetisation in MENA: from network leadership to sustainable returns
Report details
5G monetisation in MENA: from network leadership to sustainable returns
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