Saudi Arabia ICT

Cybersecurity has come to the fore in the Kingdom after a recent spate of breaches, underscoring the need for greater investment in protective measures and skills development to help thwart hackers.

The launch of mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) in the Saudi telecoms market looks set to expand product and pricing options for customers, and boost handset sales, as new operators look to carve out niche segments in the increasingly competitive mobile sector. 

Despite fierce competition in a crowded market, Saudi Arabia’s telecoms sector should see continued growth, driven largely by the expanding mobile internet and fixed broadband segments, according to recent reports from local investment groups. The Kingdom’s tech-savvy, high-income, younger generation, in particular, is earmarked to play a major part in boosting spending on data services and related products.

The information and communications technology (ICT) sector has benefitted from rising smartphone sales and expanding broadband reach, but further growth is contingent on infrastructure, particularly the expansion of the nation’s broadband capability and its integration with international networks.

Saudi Arabia’s telecommunications sector is to get a major shake up this year, with up to three new operators entering the mobile phone segment, though the route they will be taking will be very different from that followed by the three existing service providers.

Saudi Arabia’s third-largest mobile phone service provider appears set for a change of leadership as Zain, its Kuwait-based owner, bows out after four less-than-profitable years.