Telecoms & IT

Subscriber numbers among the four mobile operators have continued to grow in recent years. Operating costs have risen somewhat and profits have fallen, due mostly to heightened competition. The outlook for this sector remains positive – the kingdom’s telecoms industry is progressing toward a more IT-oriented future, as data demand grows and network operators ramp up their mobile broadband and mobile content offerings. As one of the most productive sectors of the Jordanian economy, ICT accounts for some 14.1% of the kingdom’s GDP, with operators continuing to invest in infrastructure. Further, the highly skilled local labour force, stable business environment and government support have helped to support IT sector growth. This chapter contains a roundtable with Jean-François Thomas, CEO, Orange; Ihab Hinnawi, CEO, Umniah; and Ahmad Hanandeh, CEO, Zain.