Telecom giants advance 5G networks across Middle East

Global telecom operators are rapidly advancing beyond basic 5G implementation into more sophisticated technological territories, with significant developments in 5G Advanced, AI integration, and IoT applications. These initiatives reflect the industry’s broader transformation toward intelligent, autonomous networks capable of supporting next-generation services while addressing sustainability concerns. The innovations happening across Kuwait, Turkey, Spain, and other regions demonstrate how telecom providers are leveraging multiple technologies simultaneously to create more capable and efficient infrastructure.

The big picture: Telecom operators worldwide are deploying 5G Advanced capabilities enhanced by AI, edge computing, and specialized spectrum allocations to enable more sophisticated network applications.

• Ooredoo Kuwait has established 5G Advanced readiness through AI integration, spectrum reallocation, and edge computing deployment.
• MasOrange in Spain is driving 5G Advanced innovation by utilizing spectrum across both 26GHz and 3.5GHz bands.
• Turkcell has successfully connected land-based networks to autonomous marine vehicles, demonstrating 5G’s expanding capabilities beyond traditional applications.

Key technological convergence: Operators are increasingly combining multiple advanced technologies rather than pursuing isolated innovations.

• E& (formerly Etisalat) has launched an AI assistant that works across voice, messaging, and app interfaces, reflecting the integration of AI with telecom services.
• Claro Colombia has deployed a comprehensive smart city solution that combines 5G, IoT, and AI for urban management applications.
• Omantel has launched an integrated cybersecurity and data analytics hub, merging network security with advanced data capabilities.

Sustainability focus: Green initiatives are becoming central to telecom infrastructure planning rather than peripheral considerations.

• Du has introduced eco-friendly, solar-powered mobile base stations that significantly reduce carbon emissions while maintaining network coverage.
• Virgin Media O2 has expanded its battery-powered sites initiative to enhance network resilience while reducing environmental impact.
• Telefonica Germany has implemented AI-powered predictive maintenance systems that optimize energy usage while reducing service interruptions.

Why this matters: These developments signal telecommunications’ evolution from basic connectivity providers to integrated technology platforms that enable advanced applications across industries.

• The success of initiatives like Turkcell’s marine vehicle connectivity demonstrates how 5G can extend into previously unserved environments.
• The convergence of 5G, AI, and IoT technologies is creating the foundation for more autonomous systems across industrial, consumer, and public sectors.
• Sustainability innovations address both environmental concerns and operational resilience, allowing networks to function in challenging conditions.

Where we go from here: The telecom industry appears to be entering a new phase where network capabilities will increasingly support specialized vertical applications beyond consumer connectivity.

• The Iliad Group’s expansion of cloud infrastructure indicates telecom providers are positioning themselves as computing platforms, not just communication networks.
• The prevalence of AI across multiple initiatives suggests intelligent, self-optimizing networks will become the industry standard.
• Cross-domain applications connecting land, sea, and urban environments point toward more comprehensive coverage models that eliminate traditional connectivity gaps.