While the level of digital transformation in MENA varies by country, there is no question that some markets, mainly those in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), are positioning themselves as pioneers of the digital economy and next-generation technology. Nearly all of the Gulf states have implemented digital transformation strategies and have been rolling out commercial 5G networks, with countries like the UAE having some of the densest and fastest mobile networks in the world.
But with all this exciting new technology comes the monumental task of delivering a new digital infrastructure network. The Middle East Institute expects spending on digital infrastructure in the Gulf region alone to hit US$70bn by 2024 as a growing young and technologically adept population fuels the growth of digital industries.
