The Middle East ICT

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.

Kuwait is moving to bring its information technology (IT) infrastructure in line with its neighbours by improving services, the network and the regulatory environment that governs the sector.

The Kingdom’s telecommunications sector is looking to boost revenues this year as competition intensifies between service providers. Bahrain’s telecommunications market provides a strong base for the nation’s three firms, but fierce competition is driving efforts to increase value and enhance services.

A regional cable network (RCN) earmarked for completion later this year, together with a new, national five-year strategy for the information and communications technology (ICT) sector, will act as the key drivers in Jordan’s efforts to reinvigorate growth levels in the industry.

The recent ranking of Amman as one of the world’s top cities for internet start-ups has highlighted Jordan’s success in the IT sector. The list, compiled by Rachid Sefrioui, the founder of venture capital firm Finaventures, ranked 10 cities on the basis of availability of talent, infrastructure and capital, legal environment and evidence of entrepreneurship.

Seizing opportunities to build its position as a global centre for ICT, Qatar is focusing on niche markets where there is currently a lack of content and services.