According to research conducted by Nokia, 5G technology continues to be rapidly adopted across the Middle East and Africa.
Research reports indicate that 5G subscriptions are expected to reach 519 million globally, accounting for 48% of total data traffic.
In the Middle East and Africa region, this share is projected to reach 23%, while in the Gulf countries it is expected to rise to 90%. These developments are largely driven by government investments in 5G infrastructure.
This growth is not limited to the increase in subscriber numbers; it will also shape data traffic patterns. By 2029, 5G and 4G networks are expected to account for over 90% of total data traffic in the MEA region.
The expansion of 5G also means the wider adoption of Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology. In 2022, the usage rate of this technology was around 11%, and it is expected to reach 38% by 2029.
The wider adoption of this technology will help provide high-speed internet to areas with insufficient infrastructure.