Saudi Arabia Elevates Mobile Network Experience

Ahmad El-Assasy October 10, 2023

2 minutes read

Saudi Arabia Elevates Mobile Network Experience — 5G

Saudi Arabia has witnessed a remarkable 13.6% rise in mobile download speeds this year compared to 2022, and a 22% availability in the 5G network, as per Opensignal data. Other GCC countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar also recorded notable increases in average mobile download speeds, ranging between 13.6% and 77.6%.

Table of Contents

Opensignal’s In-depth Analysis

Opensignal’s analysis included a comparative study of 40 markets, 32 of which were evaluated for 5G network performance, spotlighting exceptional user experiences delivered by GCC mobile network operators. The analysis involved contrasting the overall mobile experience in GCC countries with data from the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, while also highlighting awards given to mobile network operators.

Noteworthy Download Speeds Across the GCC

In terms of download speed, over 10% growth was witnessed in total mobile network download speed in five Gulf states this year, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In contrast, the UAE experienced a -3.7% decrease in overall download speed and a more significant drop of -13.1% in 5G network download speed. When compared to 34 markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, GCC users enjoyed leading network speed experiences, with Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait standing out in terms of speed.

Impressive 5G Network Speeds

Regarding 5G network download speed, the GCC countries, particularly Qatar, achieved the highest 5G network speeds amongst the countries from the Middle East, Europe, and Africa in the study, exceeding 200 Mbps. Saudi Arabia notably achieved a 5G network speed of 228.3 Mbps.

Saudi Arabia’s remarkable strides in the mobile network experience, especially in 5G technology, signal a strong commitment to bolstering digital infrastructure, underlining its robust position in comparison to its strong neighboring GCC countries. These enhancements in mobile network experiences are crucial in fortifying the digital infrastructure amidst ongoing digitalization efforts in the region.

Network Availability

The UAE and Qatar topped the annual network availability list, showing 98.9% user connectivity to 3G, 4G, or 5G networks in both markets. Additionally, network users in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait spend more than a fifth of their time (20% on average) connected to 5G networks.

Concerning 5G network availability, Kuwait led with 37.6% this year. Despite being the largest market and geographical area in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Saudi Arabia registered 22%, indicating the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing communications and investing in digital infrastructure to achieve Vision 2030’s goals.

Opensignal Awards

Opensignal awards mobile network operators in the GCC based on its semi-annual mobile network experience report results. Although most GCC countries see some operators dominating the awards, over time the proportion of awards each service operator has won has shifted.

Opensignal’s detailed analytics can help network operators improve mobile phone user experiences by tracking the reasons for their results and identifying areas for service improvement. These notable developments in mobile network experience outcomes affirm regional operators’ commitment to providing world-class connectivity to users, solidifying the GCC countries’ position as global leaders in communications.

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