5G and FWA to Reshape MENA Broadband by 2030
A recent report from Ericsson indicates that 5G and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) will play a significant role in defining the future of broadband in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The June 2025 Ericsson Mobility Report (EMR), shows that, by 2030, 5G will account for 61% of all mobile connections in the region.
Globally 5G subscriptions are expected to reach 2.9 billion by the close of 2025, and, by 2030, it is expected 5G networks will handle 80% of all mobile traffic. In MENA, mobile subscriptions are growing at 2% per year, with the total projected to climb to 820 million by 2030.
The report notes how FWA especially when powered by 5G is now the preferred solution for internet connections when fiber and cable networks cannot be deployed. More than 35% of global new broadband connections will arise from FWA (reaching 350 million by 2030).
“The Middle East and North Africa region continues to make impressive strides in digital connectivity. With mobile subscriptions expected to reach 820 million by 2030, and 5G expected to account for 61 percent of connections, the region is embracing next-generation technologies at pace. From mobile financial services to e-learning and telehealth, 5G is enabling a new era of digital engagement. Additionally, we see that 5G Fixed Wireless Access is also gaining ground as a vital complement to traditional broadband in the region, as service providers prioritize energy-efficient network expansions aligned with long-term sustainability and net zero ambitions.”
Kevin Murphy, Vice President and Head of Ericsson North Middle East at Ericsson Europe, Middle East and Africa
Ericsson also mentions how people in MENA are now using mobile technology for more than voice and browsing. There is increasing usage of mobile money, telehealth and learning online, which 5G is making faster and more reliable.
The transition to 5G is also prompting telecom providers to consider expansion more wisely. Many are now focusing on building energy-efficient networks that deliver expense savings and carbon emissions reductions. In addition to seeking new sources of revenue beyond simply selling more data they are generating revenue by developing better services, such as private networks, live event streaming, smart solutions for businesses, etc.
The report also includes studies about how technologies, such as Generative AI, will influence data consumption, as well as outlining the new capabilities for networks, including the possibilities for improving live media streaming.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Latest Stories
OpenSTX Foundation Creates New Benchmark for Industrial Wireless
