Reports and Coverage

By Derek Manky, Chief Security Strategist and Global VP of Threat Intelligence, Fortinet

By Abdulghaffar Setareh, Chief Risk Officer, Zain Group; and Aloysius Cheang, Chief Security Officer, Huawei Middle East & Central Asia

Telecommunications is a highly competitive industry in which with operators, infrastructure providers, and technology vendors face mercurial challenges. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has introduced solutions that promise to enhance adaptability to new trends and the reliability of processes amidst the growing complexity of systems, beckoning the question, ‘How can we identify which solutions are worth our money?’.

In a move that reflects the UAE's leadership in the adoption of advanced technologies, especially in the telecommunications sector, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) announced the launch of the fourth updated version of the National Frequency Plan, including the allocation of the 600 MHz and 6 GHz frequency bands for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) systems.

As the telecom and technology industries continue to evolve at a rapid pace, PMP Strategy stands at the forefront, offering unparalleled insights and expertise stemming from our broad network of experts across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Africa. “It’s exciting to see the large Middle-Eastern operators expand their international footprints, enter new markets beyond their core telco business, and diversify their portfolios. This trend underscores the importance of international expansion and strategic partnerships in driving growth,” says Gilles Vaqué, President and Founding Partner at PMP Strategy.

By 2030, the overall mobile subscriptions in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are expected to significantly reach 95 million, growing by 3% annually, according to the latest Ericsson Mobility Report.

The telecom industry is evolving. In an age where digital solutions are essential, du has positioned itself as a frontrunner in digital enablement. du’s commitment goes beyond the core of traditional telecom services, venturing into comprehensive digital solutions.

At the Global MBB Forum 2024 (MBBF 2024), the Global TD-LTE Initiative (GTI) officially launched its global recruitment drive for the Intelligent RAN, Ubiquitous AI Project, which forms a vital part of the 5G-A×AI Development Program. This project is designed to accelerate the symbiotic relationship between 5G-A (5G-Advanced) and AI technologies, enhancing the development of intelligent applications and the convergence of these two transformative fields. 

During the first day of the Telecom Review Leaders’ Summit 2024, the panel entitled “World First 5G-Advanced Region Sets Sail,” will commence on stage. Representatives from leading carriers and vendors as well as governmental and non-profit industry organizations will convene to share their 5G-Advanced innovations, expand on the fast progress being made in business incubation, and offer insight into the increased commercialization of 5G-A in the Middle East.

Enterprises are poised to experience a notable shift in priorities, with 60% of businesses now focusing on revenue growth, customer experience, and competitive positioning over cost-related goals for digital transformation, according to a GSMA Intelligence Research report.