site-library/docs/Broadband-RTL.md

# **Broadband Coverage in Arab Countries: A Comprehensive Overview**

This report provides a detailed analysis of broadband coverage in Arab countries, encompassing various aspects such as internet accessibility, speed, limitations, and usage patterns. It also delves into related factors like education levels and popular applications, offering a comprehensive overview of the digital landscape in the Arab world.

## **Internet Access and Infrastructure**

### **Algeria**

**Fixed Broadband**

Algeria's telecommunications infrastructure is considered underdeveloped compared to developed nations. While approximately 71% of residents have internet access, only 12% possess a fast internet connection exceeding ISDN speeds (greater than 256 kbit/s)1. The country has shown a steady increase in fixed internet subscriptions, growing from 3.3 million in 2018 to 4.3 million in 20222. Most Algerian subscribers access the internet through asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) and leased line (LL) connections2.

**Mobile Internet**

Mobile internet usage is prevalent in Algeria, with over 40 million mobile internet subscriptions in 2022 and a penetration rate exceeding 60%2. Most mobile internet users opt for 4G technologies and prepaid solutions2.

**Internet Speed**

With an average download speed of 15.05 Mbit/second for fixed-network broadband internet, Algeria ranks 141st in an international comparison1. The upload rate is significantly lower at only 3.6 Mbit/second1. In mobile internet, Algeria fares better, with an average download speed of 23.42 Mbit/second and an upload speed of around 11 Mbit/second1.

**Key Insight:** The contrast between the high mobile internet penetration and the limited access to high-speed fixed broadband suggests a possible reliance on mobile internet due to infrastructure limitations or affordability issues1.

### **Bahrain**

**Broadband Penetration**

Bahrain boasts robust internet infrastructure with both mobile and fixed broadband connections, ensuring nationwide access4. The country has achieved 100% 5G commercial network coverage with download speeds exceeding 2 Gbps4. Fiber optic rollout has reached over 95% across the Kingdom4.

**Network Performance**

In Opensignal's latest assessment of Bahrain's mobile network experience, Batelco secured the highest number of awards, including seven uncontested victories5. Batelco wins five out of six 5G categories, either outright or jointly5. It is the outright winner of the 5G Video Experience, 5G Games Experience, 5G Upload Speed, and 5G Coverage Experience awards5. Batelco and stc share the 5G Download Speed award, while stc takes the 5G Availability award5.

**ICT Development**

These achievements have contributed to Bahrain's high ranking in the ICT Development Index 2023, securing 7th place globally and 3rd in the Arab region4.

**Key Insight:** Bahrain's leading position in 5G network coverage and performance in the GCC region highlights the country's commitment to developing advanced telecommunications infrastructure4.

### **Comoros**

**Internet Penetration**

Comoros had an internet penetration rate of 8.5% in January 2022, with 76.1 thousand internet users6. The number of mobile connections stood at 494.9 thousand, equivalent to 55.1% of the total population6.

**Telecoms Expansion**

The launch of Telma Comores has expanded telecoms services in Comoros, giving people high-quality 4G LTE mobile broadband technology at lower prices7. In response to this competition, Comores Télécoms has launched an even faster 4.5G network7. By 2018, mobile broadband subscriptions rose to 58 per 100 inhabitants7.

**Challenges to Access**

Despite the presence of 4G LTE technology, internet access remains limited due to factors like affordability and digital literacy7.

**Key Insight:** The extremely low internet penetration rate and the significant digital divide in Comoros suggest a need for focused efforts to improve affordability, digital literacy, and infrastructure6.

### **Djibouti**

**Internet Access**

Djibouti had an internet penetration rate of 55.7% in January 2021, with 554.3 thousand internet users9. The number of mobile connections was 433.0 thousand, equivalent to 43.5% of the total population9.

**Telecoms Monopoly**

Djibouti remains one of the few countries with a telecoms monopoly, which has limited market potential and internet accessibility10. This lack of competition has hindered the development of the telecommunications sector and potentially affected service quality and affordability.

**Key Insight:** The telecoms monopoly in Djibouti raises concerns about internet accessibility, affordability, market competition, and consumer choices10.

### **Egypt**

**Internet Penetration and Infrastructure**

Egypt has shown significant growth in internet penetration, rising from less than 1% in 2000 to 71.9% in 202211. This growth has been driven by investments in the information and communications technology sector11. However, the country still lags in broadband internet connections, with only 12% having access to speeds exceeding ISDN rates12. Fixed broadband subscriptions have experienced a decline, with 9.8 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants in 202213.

**Broadband Quality**

Broadband connections in Egypt vary in quality depending on factors like distance from the central loop office and the quality of the copper telephone line11. In April 2008, ADSL2+ was introduced in Egypt at speeds up to 24 Mbit/s11. However, most ISPs have capped unlimited ADSL offerings to a quota of between 100 GB and 200 GB per month, creating confusion among users11.

**Government Initiatives**

As part of its program to expand access to information technology, the Egyptian government, through the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), has offered discounts on computers and 512 kbit/s ADSL subscriptions to socio-economically disadvantaged communities11.

**Key Insight:** The decline in fixed broadband subscriptions despite the overall growth in internet penetration could indicate a preference for mobile internet or challenges in fixed broadband affordability and availability11.

### **Iraq**

**Internet Access and Infrastructure**

Iraq's telecommunications infrastructure is underdeveloped, with one of the lowest internet penetration rates in the region14. Internet penetration stood at 74.9% in January 2023, with an estimated 33.72 million internet users14. The country has 7.77 million fixed broadband subscribers15. Despite recent investments in infrastructure, internet access and speeds remain poor, particularly in rural areas, which still rely on 2G technology14.

**National Internet Project**

The National Internet Project (NIP) is working to deliver high-speed internet service to underserved parts of the country14. As part of the NIP, the Ministry of Communications is implementing a modern fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network14.

**Silk Route Transit Network**

In November 2023, an Iraqi fiber optic provider unveiled the Silk Route Transit Network16. This network aims to bolster Iraq's industrial, retail, and service sectors by providing fiber optic connectivity, e-governance, and data centers16.

**Key Insight:** Iraq faces significant challenges in developing its telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, underscoring the need for continued investment and efforts to bridge the digital divide14.

### **Jordan**

**Internet Access and Infrastructure**

Jordan has a high internet penetration rate of 91% as of early 202417. The majority of Jordanians access the internet on their phones, with 9.14 million mobile connections17. Fiber optic subscriptions have also increased in recent years17.

**Internet Speed**

Investment in telecommunications infrastructure has led to improved internet speeds in Jordan17. As of May 2024, the median mobile download and upload speeds were 26.08 Mbps and 15.93 Mbps, respectively17. The median fixed-line broadband download and upload speeds were significantly higher at 147.40 Mbps and 120.96 Mbps, respectively17.

**Digital Transformation**

The Jordanian government is actively encouraging the country's digital transformation, spurred by demands arising from the COVID-19 pandemic18. There is a focus on building Fiber-to-the-Premises (FttP) infrastructure to enhance broadband access18.

**Data Usage**

The total number of fixed broadband internet subscriptions in Jordan reached 798,800 in the first quarter of 202419. The fixed broadband data usage volume was approximately 1.249 billion gigabytes19.

**Key Insight:** The significant improvement in internet speeds in Jordan, likely driven by increased investment in infrastructure, demonstrates the positive impact of government initiatives and private sector involvement17.

### **Kuwait**

**Broadband Penetration**

Kuwait has achieved near-universal fixed broadband penetration, with 98% of households having access in 202220. The country is expected to reach 100% fixed broadband penetration soon20.

**Mobile Data Usage**

Mobile data usage is also high in Kuwait, with an average of 83.9 GB used monthly21. 5G network coverage has expanded to approximately 97% of the population21.

**5G Performance**

In 2023, Kuwait demonstrated strong performance in 5G, ranking first for 5G Video Experience and sharing the top spot with Bahrain for 5G Availability among GCC markets22.

**Key Insight:** Kuwait's achievement of near-universal fixed broadband penetration and its high mobile data usage suggest a strong demand for internet services and a digitally advanced society20.

### **Lebanon**

**Internet Access and Infrastructure**

Lebanon's internet freedom remains tenuous, with the ongoing economic crisis creating obstacles for internet service providers and users23. Internet penetration stood at 90.1% in early 2024, with a slight decline in user numbers24.

**Internet Speed and Service Disruptions**

Lebanon's telecommunications infrastructure is weak, and the economic crisis has further impacted service quality24. Internet speeds have decreased, and service disruptions are frequent, particularly in rural areas, which often only have access to 2G or 3G networks24.

**Mobile Network Upgrades**

To tackle mobile connectivity problems, both operators Touch and Alfa upgraded their networks in 201125. 3G services cover around 90% of Lebanon, and 4G services were subsequently launched26. A 5G network is available at Rafic Hariri airport in Beirut26.

**IMEWE Cable Network**

Lebanon benefits from the India-Middle East-Western Europe (IMEWE) Cable Network, a 12,091 km cable with 10 terminal stations25. This cable system enhances Lebanon's international internet connectivity.

**Key Insight:** The economic crisis in Lebanon has significantly impacted internet accessibility and affordability, highlighting the vulnerability of the digital landscape to external factors and the need for resilience23.

### **Libya**

**Internet Access and Infrastructure**

Libya's internet access is hampered by the ongoing civil conflict, with inconsistent service and frequent power cuts27. The conflict has damaged approximately 25% of mobile towers27. Despite these challenges, internet penetration increased to 88.4% in 2024, compared to 45.9% in 202327. Internet speeds have also improved27.

**Internet Affordability**

While prices have fallen in recent years, the depreciation of the Libyan dinar and economic instability have made the internet inaccessible for some people27.

**Key Insight:** The improvement in internet penetration and speeds despite the challenges posed by the civil conflict demonstrates the resilience of the Libyan people and the efforts to maintain connectivity27.

## **Challenges to Digitization in Algeria**

Algeria faces several challenges in its digitization progress, including:

* **Incomplete regulatory framework:** The regulatory environment is considered restrictive and slow to adapt to international digital trends3.  
* **Limited access in remote areas:** Internet connectivity and access to high-speed broadband are limited in rural areas, where 24.5% of the population lives3.  
* **Data protection and localization:** Algeria's data protection laws, which mandate data localization, can be challenging for foreign companies entering the market3.

These challenges need to be addressed to accelerate Algeria's digital transformation and ensure inclusive access to technology3.

## **Global Context: Internet Connectivity in Developing Countries**

Despite significant progress in mobile internet adoption, a considerable usage gap persists in low- and middle-income countries8. As of 2020, 51% of the population in these countries was still not using mobile internet due to various barriers, including lack of coverage, affordability, awareness, and digital skills8. If current trends continue, more than 40% of the population in these countries will remain offline in 20258.

## **Gender and Digital Divide in Djibouti**

In Djibouti, there is a significant gender gap in mobile internet and mobile ownership28. This gap highlights the need to address the specific challenges faced by women in accessing and using technology.

## **Internet Freedom and Censorship**

### **Algeria**

Algeria's government regulations allow for controls on internet access and content monitoring29. Internet service providers are responsible for the content they host and are required to monitor it to prevent access to material deemed contrary to public order or morality29. These regulations are often used to restrict anti-government activism and online criticism29. The country has a history of disrupting internet connectivity during Baccalaureate exams to curb cheating30.

### **Bahrain**

Bahrain's internet freedom is restricted, with authorities frequently blocking websites and removing online content critical of the government31. Social media platforms are monitored, and self-censorship is prevalent due to fears of surveillance and intimidation31. Journalists and activists face criminal penalties and harassment for online activities31. The Bahraini government also uses spyware and tracking tools to target individuals and suppress dissent32.

### **Other Arab Countries**

While the research material did not provide specific details on internet limitations in other Arab countries, it is important to note that governments in the region often impose restrictions on online content and access for various reasons, including national security, political control, and social values.

## **Education Levels**

### **Algeria**

Algeria has a compulsory education system for children aged 6 to 1633. The literacy rate among adults is 81%, while youth literacy stands at 97%34. Primary and middle school enrollment rates are high, but there are significant dropouts in secondary education34. Access to higher education is improving, with more women than men attending universities34. In 2008, the Algerian government approved a €100 million plan to implement internet networks in every high school in the country29.

### **Bahrain**

Bahrain has a well-established education system with a 95% literacy rate35. Basic education is compulsory for nine years, starting at age 636. The country has invested heavily in the education sector, focusing on quality and inclusivity35.

### **Other Arab Countries**

While specific details on education levels in other Arab countries are limited in the provided research material, it is worth noting that education is generally prioritized in the Arab world, with governments investing in improving literacy rates and access to quality education.

## **Mobile vs. Desktop Internet Usage**

### **Algeria**

Mobile internet usage dominates in Algeria, with mobile devices generating approximately 61.4% of web traffic2. As of January 2025, mobile devices accounted for 62.89% of internet usage, while desktops held a 34.78% share37. This trend reflects the increasing affordability and accessibility of mobile devices and mobile internet services.

### **Bahrain**

While specific data on mobile vs. desktop usage in Bahrain is limited, the research suggests a decline in the use of fixed telephone lines, with most households relying on mobile phone services38. This indicates a potential shift towards mobile internet usage.

### **Other Arab Countries**

Data on mobile vs. desktop internet usage in other Arab countries is not available in the provided research material. However, the global trend shows a significant shift towards mobile internet usage, with mobile devices accounting for the majority of website traffic39.

## **Popular Apps**

### **Algeria**

Popular apps in Algeria include:

* **Communication:** WhatsApp Messenger, Messenger, Telegram, Snapchat, Rakuten Viber Messenger 40  
* **Local Services:** Yassir, BaridiMob, My Ooredoo Algeria, ECCP \- Algérie Poste 41  
* **E-commerce:** Jumia, Algerie Store, Mawdoo3, Modanisa, Algerie Market 42

### **Bahrain**

Popular apps in Bahrain include:

* **Fintech:** BenefitPay, stc pay BH, FLOOSS | Instant Finance, Beyon Money \- بيون موني 43  
* **E-commerce:** SHEIN \- Shopping Online, Brands For Less \- Shopping App, Trendyol, Alibaba.com 43  
* **Local Services:** My stc BH, السوق المفتوح \- OpenSooq, Ninja \- نينجا, Talabat, ila, BeAware Bahrain 43

### **Other Arab Countries**

Information on popular apps in other Arab countries is not available in the provided research material.

## **Average Screen Sizes**

Despite analyzing various sources, including 1, and 44, specific data on average screen sizes was not found for most countries. Further research may be required to gather comprehensive data on screen size preferences in the Arab world.

## **Browser Usage**

Despite reviewing sources like 1, and 44, detailed browser usage statistics for each Arab country were not readily available. However, it is worth noting that globally, Chrome dominates the browser market, with Safari and Edge holding significant shares45. Further research is needed to obtain detailed browser usage statistics for each Arab country.

## **Conclusion**

This report has provided a comprehensive overview of broadband coverage and related aspects in Arab countries. While some countries like Bahrain and Kuwait have made significant strides in internet accessibility and speed, challenges remain in others, particularly regarding infrastructure development, affordability, and internet freedom. The digital landscape in the Arab world is evolving, with increasing mobile internet usage and the emergence of various applications catering to local needs.

The findings of this report have several implications for the region:

* **Economic Development:** Improved broadband access can contribute to economic growth by facilitating online businesses, e-commerce, and digital innovation.  
* **Social Progress:** Increased internet penetration can enhance access to information, education, and social services, promoting social inclusion and empowerment.  
* **Digital Inclusion:** Addressing the digital divide within and across Arab countries is crucial for ensuring that all citizens can benefit from the opportunities offered by the digital economy.

Further research and analysis are crucial for understanding the nuances of internet usage and trends in each country, enabling informed decision-making and policy development in the digital sphere. This will help to foster a more inclusive and digitally advanced Arab world.

#### **Works cited**

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