WASHINGTON-Cellular and third-generation technology subscribers in the Middle East and Africa will increase from approximately 15 million people this year to almost 40 million people in 2007, according to a new study released by The Strategis Group.
The study, “Middle East and Africa Cellular Markets,” also projects that by 2007, 2.5G and 3G subscribers will make up 22 percent of the total subscriber base in countries where that technology is deployed.
“Operators in markets like Egypt and Lebanon may leapfrog 2G technology by winning a 3G license during the next two years,” said Heather Henyon, a senior analyst with the International Wireless Practice of The Strategis Group. “The business case for 3G in these markets may be stronger than in countries where fixed-line infrastructure has been built out.
“When looking at potential for growth in emerging markets like the Middle East and Africa, it’s important to look beyond sheer volume and subscriber numbers,” Henyon continued. “Real drivers of demand in these markets are linked to the country’s existing cellular infrastructure and the emergence of competition through privatization.”
