The recently concluded M360 MENA showcased the immense potential of the digital landscape while addressing the critical role of collaboration, innovation, and strategic policymaking in driving inclusive growth across the region.
From policymakers to industry leaders, speakers highlighted the need for strong partnerships to unlock digital opportunities and overcome challenges. The focus remained on creating an ecosystem where connectivity drives economic growth, innovation, and inclusivity.
Discussions explored how mobile connectivity forms the backbone of economic digitalisation, supporting consumer access, enterprise innovation, and government efficiency. GSMA’s focus on actionable insights encourages policy frameworks that promote investment and equitable access.
The growth of 5G in MENA is unparalleled, but its success depends on converting connectivity into sustainable revenue streams. From Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) to open APIs, the potential to revolutionize both consumer and enterprise segments is vast. As digital threats evolve, building robust cybersecurity frameworks is essential. Discussions underscored the integration of security into networks and operations, highlighting AI and quantum computing’s role in shaping secure ecosystems.
Smart city initiatives, like TASMU Smart Qatar, showcased how digital innovations enhance urban living. Success depends on data-driven strategies, cloud-enabled applications, and partnerships fostering inclusive and sustainable solutions. AI’s role in telecom is transformative. From optimizing networks to enabling generative AI use cases, the opportunities for economic and operational gains are immense. However, robust governance is needed to balance innovation with ethical AI development.
The shift to circularity and renewable energy is redefining the telecom sector’s environmental footprint. With net-zero commitments by 2050, operators are focusing on green infrastructure and energy-efficient networks to combat climate change. The recurring theme throughout M360 MENA was collaboration. Whether it’s fostering inclusivity, bridging the digital divide, or enabling sustainable growth, partnerships between governments, operators, and stakeholders remain key.
The event also saw the launch of the Mobile Economy MENA 2024 report which can be accessed here as well as the signing of the M360 Eurasia MoU witnessed by Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan; GSMA Director General Mats Granryd; VEON Group CEO and Chairman of Beeline Uzbekistan, Kaan Terzioglu; and the incoming CEO of Beeline Uzbekistan, Andrey Pyatakhin. The event will be hosted in Tashkent on May 21 and 22, 2025.
We look forward to having you at M360 MENA 2025. The dates will be communicated in due time.