Egypt, located in North Africa, is characterised by a diverse geography with the vast Sahara Desert, fertile Nile River Valley, and the Mediterranean coast. Its population of 109 million is heavily concentrated along the Nile, with densely populated cities including Cairo and Alexandria. This uneven population distribution presents unique challenges in telecommunications and technology infrastructure. Egypt is recognised for its Suez Canal Corridor Project, a mega-infrastructure development fostering economic growth and enhancing digital connectivity. However, the vast desert regions pose significant technological and telecommunication challenges due to remoteness and harsh environmental conditions. In response, Egypt has pioneered solar energy solutions such as the Benban Solar Park, one of the world's largest photovoltaic power stations, utilising the high solar potential of its desert regions. In terms of technology, Egypt is making strides in its digital transformation journey with the implementation of the "Digital Egypt" strategy, aimed at leveraging ICT to improve public services, increase digital literacy, and promote innovation. Despite these advances, there is still a digital divide, particularly between urban and rural areas, and addressing these disparities remains a critical challenge for Egypt.
Mobile Network Operators
The are 4 companies operating mobile networks in this region.
Etisalat Egypt is the third largest mobile network operating in Egypt and a subsidiary of the Emirates Telecommunications Group Company PJSC, commonly known as Etisalat. The network launched in May 2007, following a USD 1.2 billion network construction in partnership with Ericsson and Huawei. The company updated its brand to Etisalat by e& in 2022.
Orange Egypt (اورنچ مٙصر) is the second largest mobile network operating in Egypt. Beginning operations in March 1998, the company, formerly known as Mobinil, was the first Egyptian mobile carrier formed as a collaboration between Orange (then France Telecom), Motorola, Orascom, and several local partners. Until 1998 all mobile telecommunications was provided by Arab Republic of Egypt National Telecommunications Organization (ARENTO), who developed the first GSM network in 1996.
Orange Group acquired a majority and controlling stake in Mobinil in May 2012 when it acquired 94% of the company...
We Telecom Egypt is a primary telecommunications company in Egypt, originating from the first telegraph line established in the country in 1854. The company, initially called the Arab Republic of Egypt National Telecommunication Organization (ARENTO), was renamed to Telecom Egypt in 1998. It is a joint stock company, with the government maintaining full ownership. In 2001, Telecom Egypt established TE Data, its data communications and ISP arm, and also began acquiring shares in Vodafone Egypt, eventually owning 44.95% of the company. In 2017, Telecom Egypt launched its mobile service, branded...
