
Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 9.67 Billion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 11.29 Billion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 3.15 % |
Market Concentration | High |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
UAE Telecom Market Analysis
The UAE Telecom Market size is estimated at USD 9.67 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 11.29 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 3.15% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The UAE telecom sector demonstrates remarkable technological advancement and infrastructure development, positioning itself as a global leader in connectivity innovation. The country has achieved universal internet penetration according to World Bank data, with mobile networks in the UAE reaching an impressive 200.9% of the population in 2023, equivalent to 19.05 million active connections. This extensive connectivity infrastructure is supported by approximately 7,000 5G base stations deployed across the nation, ensuring comprehensive coverage and superior service quality. The telecommunications sector continues to evolve with groundbreaking developments, such as Etisalat's achievement of record-breaking 5G speeds exceeding 13 Gbps in October 2023, reinforcing the UAE's position as a pioneer in telecommunications industry technology.
The market is characterized by significant infrastructure investments and technological innovations that enhance service delivery and customer experience. In October 2023, Nokia completed a state-of-the-art 400G national optical backbone network for Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du), spanning the entire nation from its western border to its easternmost point. This infrastructure upgrade demonstrates the market's commitment to building robust networks capable of supporting next-generation services. Additionally, du's implementation of multi-carrier aggregation in August 2023 has substantially improved network capabilities, particularly in fixed wireless home broadband services, showcasing the market's dedication to service enhancement.
The UAE telecom sector is witnessing a profound transformation in service delivery and customer interaction through digital innovation. A notable development is the launch of EASE (Etisalat by e& Autonomous Store Experience) in October 2023, representing the world's first autonomous telecom store powered by AI. This initiative combines artificial intelligence, machine learning, facial recognition, and robotics to revolutionize the retail experience in telecommunications. The sector's digital transformation is further evidenced by the impressive 99.5% digitization rate of government services in 2023, highlighting the successful integration of digital solutions across various sectors.
The market exhibits strong performance in network capabilities and speed metrics, particularly in 5G technology deployment. As of Q2 2023, the UAE emerged as the global leader in 5G performance with a median download speed of 557.63 Mbps, surpassing all other markets worldwide. This achievement reflects the successful implementation of advanced telecommunications infrastructure and the effective utilization of spectrum resources. The continuous expansion of fiber optic networks, exemplified by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority's extension of over 350 kilometers of fiber optic ducts throughout Dubai neighborhoods, demonstrates the market's commitment to building a future-proof telecommunications industry infrastructure that supports both current and emerging technologies.
UAE Telecom Market Trends
Rise in Penetration of Smartphones
The rapid proliferation of smartphones in the UAE has become a fundamental driver of the telecom market's growth, with the country recording 19.05 million active mobile phone connections as of early 2023, representing an impressive 200.9% of the country's population. This extraordinary penetration rate is supported by the increasing accessibility of feature-rich smartphones across various price points, enabling broader adoption across diverse demographic groups. The significance of smartphones in the UAE's digital landscape is further emphasized by ITU data showing that mobile phones accounted for 91.4% of internet access devices as of the third quarter of 2022, with smartphones specifically representing 89.7% of these devices.
The smartphone-driven transformation of the UAE's telecom sector is particularly evident in the rapid growth of mobile commerce and digital payments. According to Dubai Chambers, mobile retail sales are projected to expand at an average annual rate of 15.6% between 2022 and 2026, reaching USD 4.6 billion. This trend has prompted telecom providers in the UAE to adapt their service offerings, introducing advanced digital financial services and innovative mobile solutions. The extensive use of smartphones for data-intensive applications, including video streaming, social media engagement, and mobile gaming, has created a robust demand for high-speed mobile data services, particularly as the country continues to expand its 4G and 5G network capabilities. The UAE smartphone market share is expected to continue its growth trajectory, driven by these technological advancements.
Government Policies and PPP Initiatives
The UAE government's progressive policies and public-private partnerships have emerged as crucial drivers of the telecom market's development, exemplified by the achievement of a 99.5% digitization rate of government services in 2023, as reported by TDRA. The government's commitment to digital transformation is further demonstrated through strategic initiatives such as the 'We the UAE 2031' vision, announced in April 2023, which encompasses comprehensive transformation projects aimed at establishing an integrated digital life framework. These initiatives are complemented by significant public-private collaborations, such as the October 2023 partnership between du and Nokia for advanced 5G applications, and Yahsat's expansion plans supported by the UAE government's USD 5.1 billion commitment to purchase internet services through 2043.
The regulatory framework, overseen by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), has been instrumental in fostering innovation while ensuring market stability. In October 2023, the TDRA facilitated significant developments in digital infrastructure through the SAMENA accelerator summit, focusing on achieving the 'Giga' milestone through enhanced fixed-line networks. Additionally, the government's emphasis on smart city initiatives has driven substantial investments in telecom infrastructure, with Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism reporting significant international investment capital attraction in the technology sector. These policy initiatives and partnerships have created a robust ecosystem that continues to attract both domestic and international investments in the UAE's telecom sector, enhancing the telecommunication market share.
Rising Digital Transformation in the Industries
The accelerating pace of digital transformation across UAE industries has become a significant driver of telecom market growth, evidenced by the country's achievement of ranking second globally with an average mobile internet speed of 296 Mbps. This transformation is particularly visible in the implementation of advanced technologies, as demonstrated by the launch of EASE® (Etisalat by e& Autonomous Store Experience) in October 2023, the world's first autonomous telecom store powered by AI, combining artificial intelligence, machine learning, facial recognition, and robotics. The integration of these technologies has created unprecedented demand for robust telecom infrastructure capable of supporting sophisticated digital solutions across various industrial sectors.
The industrial digital transformation is further accelerated by strategic partnerships and technological innovations, exemplified by the June 2023 collaboration between Nokia and Du to deploy multi-access gateway (MAG) technology for enhanced broadband services over 4G/5G fixed-wireless access. This transformation extends beyond traditional telecommunications, encompassing cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications across various sectors. The trend is reinforced by initiatives such as Dubai's Digital Strategy, which establishes a comprehensive digital system enhancing the digital economy through seven key pillars: digital city, digital economy, data and statistics, digital talent, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital competitiveness, creating a sustained demand for advanced telecom services and infrastructure. The role of telecommunications service companies in this transformation is pivotal, as they continue to innovate and expand their offerings to meet the evolving needs of the market.
Segment Analysis: By Telecom Services
Data and Messaging Services Segment in UAE Telecom Market
The data and messaging services segment continues to dominate the UAE telecom market, commanding approximately 54% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the increasing demand for efficient and reliable internet services across businesses as digitization gains momentum. The segment's growth is supported by widespread 5G deployment, cost-effective bundled messaging and data packages from UAE telecom companies, and a robust network infrastructure. The rising adoption of artificial intelligence, IoT, smart home technologies, metaverse applications, and UHD cloud gaming has further strengthened the segment's position. Major UAE telecommunication companies are actively launching innovative broadband services to enhance business and residential users' experience for high-speed internet connectivity, particularly within indoor environments.

OTT and PayTV Services Segment in UAE Telecom Market
The OTT and PayTV services segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the UAE telecom market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 7% during 2024-2029. This remarkable growth is driven by the increasing demand for high-quality and exclusive digital content, expansion of PayTV platforms, and attractive bundled offerings by UAE telecommunication companies. Market vendors are actively enhancing their service portfolios through strategic partnerships and acquisitions with content providers. The segment's growth is further supported by the introduction of consolidated OTT streaming services, allowing UAE residents to access multiple platforms through a single service. Telecom operators are increasingly integrating premium content services with their core offerings, creating comprehensive entertainment packages that cater to the evolving preferences of digital consumers.
Remaining Segments in Telecom Services
The voice services segment remains a fundamental component of the UAE telecom market, encompassing both wired and wireless communications. This segment continues to evolve with the integration of advanced technologies such as Voice-over IP and Voice over New Radio (VoNR) in 5G networks. While traditional voice services maintain their importance in business communications and essential connectivity, the segment is witnessing a transformation through the introduction of innovative features and improved call quality. The integration of voice services with digital platforms and the provision of enhanced communication solutions for enterprises demonstrate the segment's ongoing adaptation to changing market demands.
Segment Analysis: By Telecom Connectivity
Mobile Network Segment in UAE Telecom Market
The mobile network segment dominates the UAE telecom market, commanding approximately 84% market share in 2024, with revenues reaching $7.80 billion. This segment is also experiencing the fastest growth trajectory, projected to grow at around 3% during 2024-2029. The segment's strong performance is driven by the increasing adoption of smartphones, deployment of advanced 5G infrastructure, and innovative service offerings by major UAE telecom companies. Both major players, Etisalat and Du, have made significant investments in expanding their mobile network coverage, particularly in 5G technology deployment. The widespread implementation of 5G networks has enabled enhanced mobile broadband services, supporting the increasing demand for data-intensive applications and rich content consumption. Additionally, the mobile segment benefits from the country's high mobile penetration rate and the growing trend of digital transformation across various industries, which has led to increased demand for mobile connectivity solutions.
Fixed Network Segment in UAE Telecom Market
The fixed network segment maintains a crucial position in the UAE telecom market, providing essential connectivity infrastructure for homes and businesses. This segment has shown steady development through the expansion of fiber optic networks and the introduction of advanced fixed broadband services. Major telecom operators have been actively investing in fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and fiber-to-the-business (FTTB) networks to enhance connectivity capabilities and service quality. The segment's growth is supported by increasing demand for reliable high-speed internet connections, particularly in supporting remote work, online education, and digital entertainment services. Furthermore, the fixed network infrastructure plays a vital role in supporting the country's smart city initiatives and digital transformation agenda, providing the backbone for various IoT applications and advanced digital services.
UAE Telecom Industry Overview
Top Companies in UAE Telecom Market
The UAE telecom market is characterized by continuous innovation and strategic developments from major players like Etisalat (now e&), du, OSN, and Yahsat. Telecom companies in Dubai, such as these, are actively investing in next-generation technologies, particularly focusing on 5G infrastructure deployment and fiber network expansion to enhance connectivity solutions. The industry demonstrates strong operational agility through digital transformation initiatives, with providers developing comprehensive digital service portfolios beyond traditional telecommunications. Strategic partnerships with global technology leaders and local enterprises have become increasingly common, enabling providers to expand their service offerings and market reach. Market players are also emphasizing customer experience enhancement through digital-first approaches, while simultaneously pursuing geographic expansion and diversification of revenue streams through ventures into adjacent markets like fintech, cloud services, and entertainment platforms.
Duopolistic Market Structure Drives Strategic Growth
The UAE telecom market exhibits a highly consolidated structure dominated by two major players, Etisalat and du, who collectively control the vast majority of market share. This duopolistic environment has created high barriers to entry for new players, while encouraging the incumbent operators to focus on service differentiation and innovation rather than price competition. The market's structure is further reinforced by strong government involvement, with state-backed entities maintaining significant ownership stakes in the major operators, ensuring alignment with national digital transformation objectives and infrastructure development goals. The limited number of operators has fostered an environment where companies focus on long-term infrastructure investments and service quality improvements rather than engaging in aggressive price competition.
The market has witnessed selective merger and acquisition activities, primarily focused on expanding capabilities in emerging technology segments rather than traditional consolidation. Major operators have pursued strategic acquisitions and partnerships in areas such as content delivery, cloud services, and digital solutions to enhance their service portfolios and maintain competitive advantages. The presence of specialized players like OSN in content delivery and Yahsat in satellite communications adds depth to the market ecosystem, while complementing the core services offered by the primary telecom operators in Dubai. This structure has created a stable yet dynamic market environment where innovation and service quality serve as key differentiators.
Innovation and Digital Transformation Drive Success
Success in the UAE telecom market increasingly depends on operators' ability to leverage emerging technologies and deliver innovative digital solutions that address evolving customer needs. Incumbent telecom operators in the UAE must focus on expanding their digital service portfolios, investing in network infrastructure modernization, and developing value-added services to maintain their market positions. The ability to form strategic partnerships with global technology leaders and local enterprises will become increasingly crucial for maintaining competitive advantages. Companies must also emphasize customer experience enhancement through digital transformation initiatives while maintaining operational efficiency through automation and advanced analytics.
For new entrants and smaller players, success lies in identifying and exploiting niche market segments while developing specialized solutions that complement rather than directly compete with incumbent operators' services. The regulatory environment continues to evolve in favor of digital transformation and innovation, creating opportunities for specialized service providers in areas such as IoT, cloud services, and digital content delivery. Market participants must carefully consider end-user concentration in specific segments while developing targeted solutions that address specific industry needs. The increasing focus on smart city initiatives and digital government services creates additional opportunities for market participants to develop specialized solutions and establish strategic partnerships with public sector entities.
UAE Telecom Market Leaders
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Etisalat (Emirates Telecommunication Group Company PJSC)
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Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du)
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OSN (Orbit Showtime Network)
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AL Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat)
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Thuraya Telecommunications Company
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

UAE Telecom Market News
- March 2024: Ericsson and Du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunication Company, declared a strategic alliance to facilitate Ericsson with wireless network products, allowing intelligent services to the government and enterprise sectors in the United Arab Emirates. Under this agreement, both companies joined to design private 4G and 5G networks. They will work closely to enhance connectivity for government and enterprise customers by creating private networks to enable Industry 4.0 adoption and intelligent services.
- August 2023: Etisalat by E& announced the release of Wi-Fi as a Service, its newest product. This innovative solution was created to improve businesses' connections by expanding their Wi-Fi signal and coverage across their buildings. The comprehensive package allows UAE companies to benefit from improved Wi-Fi without bearing the cost of infrastructure upgrades through end-to-end installation, 24/7 assistance, and reduced OPEX (operating expenses).
UAE Telecom Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET INSIGHTS
- 4.1 Market Overview
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4.2 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.2.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.2.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.2.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.2.4 Threat of Substitutes
- 4.2.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
- 4.3 An Assessment of the Impact of Recent Geopolitical Developments on the UAE Telecom Market
- 4.4 Analysis of Regulatory Reforms
- 4.5 Pestle Analysis Telecom Sector in United Arab Emirates
5. MARKET DYNAMICS
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5.1 Market Drivers
- 5.1.1 Rise in Penetration of Smartphones
- 5.1.2 Government Policies and PPP Initiatives
- 5.1.3 Rising Digital Transformation in the Industries
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5.2 Market Restraints
- 5.2.1 High Dependence on External Source to Balance the Skill Deficit
- 5.2.2 Heavy Dependence on Oil and Gas Sector
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5.3 Evolution of Telecom Sector
- 5.3.1 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G Connections
- 5.3.2 Smart Home IoT and M2M Connections
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5.4 Ecosystem Analysis
- 5.4.1 Tower Companies
- 5.4.2 OEMs (Small Cells, Das, Etc.)
- 5.4.3 MNOs
- 5.4.4 MVNOs
- 5.4.5 OTT/PayTV
6. SMART MOBILITY DEVELOPMENTS IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
- 6.1 Smart Mobility Ecosystem
- 6.2 Urbanization Status in the United Arab Emirates
- 6.3 Automated Transport Opportunities
- 6.4 IoT and Connectivity
- 6.5 Key Urban Planning and Transport and Infrastructure Projects
7. TELECOM INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS VIS-Ã-VIS SMART CITIES IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
- 7.1 Telecom Infrastructure Developments in Smart Cities
- 7.2 UAE IoT Projects vis-ã-vis Smart City Developments
- 7.3 5G Adoption in the United Arab Emirates and Impact on Smart Cities
- 7.4 Connectivity Landscape
- 7.5 Growth Opportunities in Telecom Sector
8. MARKET SEGMENTATION
- 8.1 By Overall Telecom Revenue
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8.2 Telecom Services
- 8.2.1 Voice Services
- 8.2.1.1 Wired
- 8.2.1.2 Wireless
- 8.2.2 Data and Messaging Services
- 8.2.3 OTT and PayTV Services
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8.3 By Telecom Connectivity
- 8.3.1 Network
- 8.3.2 Mobile Network
9. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 9.1 Market Share Analysis of Key Vendors
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9.2 Company Profiles*
- 9.2.1 Etisalat (Emirates Telecommunication Group Company PJSC)
- 9.2.2 Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du)
- 9.2.3 OSN (Orbit Showtime Network)
- 9.2.4 Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (YAHSAT)
- 9.2.5 Thuraya Telecommunications Company
10. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS
UAE Telecom Industry Segmentation
Telecom or telecommunication refers to all states of data, voice, and video transmission and describes the electronic exchange of information over great distances. It includes various information-transmitting technologies and communications infrastructures, including landlines, cell phones, mobile phones, satellites, fiber optics, television, microwave communications, radio, the Internet, and telegraphs.
The UAE telecom industry is segmented by telecom services (voice services [wired, wireless], data and messaging services, OTT and pay-TV services) and telecom connectivity (fixed network, mobile network). The report offers market forecasts and size in value (USD) for all the above segments.
Telecom Services | Voice Services | Wired |
Wireless | ||
Data and Messaging Services | ||
OTT and PayTV Services | ||
By Telecom Connectivity | Network | |
Mobile Network |
UAE Telecom Market Research Faqs
How big is the UAE Telecom Market?
The UAE Telecom Market size is expected to reach USD 9.67 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 3.15% to reach USD 11.29 billion by 2030.
What is the current UAE Telecom Market size?
In 2025, the UAE Telecom Market size is expected to reach USD 9.67 billion.
Who are the key players in UAE Telecom Market?
Etisalat (Emirates Telecommunication Group Company PJSC), Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du), OSN (Orbit Showtime Network), AL Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat) and Thuraya Telecommunications Company are the major companies operating in the UAE Telecom Market.
What years does this UAE Telecom Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the UAE Telecom Market size was estimated at USD 9.37 billion. The report covers the UAE Telecom Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the UAE Telecom Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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UAE Telecom Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the telecommunications industry in the United Arab Emirates. We leverage our extensive expertise in the telecom sector to deliver this research. Our detailed report examines the dynamic landscape of Dubai telecom and UAE telecommunications. It covers major mobile operators in UAE and network providers in UAE. The analysis includes both established telecommunication companies in Dubai and emerging players in the telecommunications services space. It offers detailed insights into mobile networks in UAE and infrastructure developments across the region.
Stakeholders in the telecom industry benefit from our report's actionable insights. These are available in an easy-to-read PDF format for immediate download. The analysis serves telecommunications services companies, mobile phone companies in UAE, and telecom service providers in UAE. It provides crucial data on market dynamics and growth opportunities. Our research thoroughly examines Dubai mobile operators and UAE telecom operators. It also provides valuable insights into wireless networking trends and technological advancements shaping the telecommunication in Dubai landscape. The report offers strategic value to both established top telecom companies in UAE and new entrants seeking to understand the evolving UAE telecom market.