List of mobile network operators in the Middle East and Africa
This is a list of mobile network operators of the Middle East and Africa.
Algeria
In Q3 of 2023, the penetration rate was estimated at 114.42% over a population estimate of 44.20 million.[1]
The telecom regulator in Algeria is Autorité de Régulation de la Poste et des Télécommunications (ARPT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mobilis | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA, HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 22.1 (Q3 2023)[1] | Algérie Télécom |
| 2 | Djezzy | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA, HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 15.6 (Q3 2023)[1] | State-owned[2] |
| 3 | Ooredoo (formerly Nedjma) | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA, HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 12.9 (Q3 2023)[1] | Ooredoo (74.4%) |
Angola
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 63.7% over a population estimate of 13.3 million.[3]
The telecom regulator in Angola is Instituto Angolano das Comunicações (INACOM).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Unitel | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 800/1800 MHz LTE | 7 (November 2011)[4] | Mercury (Sonangol group) (25%), Group GENI (25%), Vidatel (25%), Portugal Telecom (25%)[5] |
| 2 | Movicel | GSM (GPRS, EDGE) 900 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 1800 MHz LTE | 2.5 (September 2010)[5] | Government (Angola Telecom) (18%), Correios Telegrafos de Angola (2%), Porturil (40%), Modus Comicare (19%), Ipang (10%), Lambda (6%) |
| 3 | Africell | 5 (September 2022)[6] | Africell Group |
Bahrain
At the end of 2011 the penetration rate was estimated at 133% over a population estimate of 1.27 million.[7]
The telecom regulator in Bahrain is Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Bahrain (TRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Batelco | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 0.738[8] (Dec 2011) | Bahrain Telecommunications Company |
| 2 | Zain (formerly MTC-Vodafone) | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 1800 MHz LTE WiMAX | 0.787 (Sep 2014)[9] | Zain Group (56.25%) |
| 3 | stc | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | Not Yet Available | STC |
Benin
In December 2015, the penetration rate was estimated at 90.33%[10] (in 2014, the population was estimated as 10.33 millions[11]).
The telecom regulator in Benin is Autorité de régulation des communications électroniques et de la poste (ARCEP Benin).[12]
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-900/1800 MHz | 4.3[10] (Dec 2015) | MTN (75%) |
| 2 | Moov | GSM-900 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 3.3[10] (Dec 2015) | Etisalat |
| 3 | Glo | GSM-900/1800 MHz | 1.7[10] (Dec 2015) | Globacom |
| 4 | Libercom | GSM-900 MHz | 0.056[10] (Dec 2015) | Benin Telecom |
| - | BBcom | GSM-900/1800 MHz | ND[10][13] (Dec 2015) | Bell Benin Communications |
Botswana
In March 2015 the penetration rate was 167% over a population estimate of 2.05 millions.[14]
The telecom regulator in Botswana is Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mascom | GSM-900 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 1.7[14] (March 2015) | Mascom, MTN (53%) |
| 2 | Orange | GSM-900 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 1.1[14] (March 2015) | Orange S.A. (69%), Mosokelatsebeng Cellular (local investors, 26%), local individuals (5%) |
| 3 | btc | GSM-900/1800 UMTS | 0.52[14] (March 2015) | BTC Botswana Telecommunications Corporation |
Burkina Faso
In December 2011 the penetration rate was estimated at 36% over a population estimate of 16.7 million.[15]
The telecom regulator in Burkina Faso is Autorité de régulation des communications électroniques et des postes (ARCEP),[16] the current name of the former Autorité de régulation des communications électroniques (ARCE) and of the previous Autorité de régulation des télécommunications (ARTEL).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orange | GSM 900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 4.1 (2012) | Orange[17] |
| 2 | Telmob (Onatel) | CDMA2000, EVDO GSM 900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 3.9 [18] (2012) | Maroc Telecom (51%) |
| 3 | Telecel Faso | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) | 2 (2012) | Planor Afrique |
Burundi
In 2011 the penetration rate was estimated at 20% over a population estimate of 8 million.[19]
The telecom regulator in Burundi is Agence de Régulation et de Contrôle des Télécommunications (ARCT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lumitel (Viettel Burundi S.A.) | GSM UMTS 4G LTE | 3[20] (December 2020) | Viettel Group (Vietnam) |
| 2 | Econet Leo | CDMA GSM-900/1800 MHz 2100 MHz UMTS | 2.6[21] (July 2015) | Econet Wireless (purchased Leo from Vimpelcom) |
| 3 | ONAMOB | GSM-900 MHz | 0.140 (November 2008)[citation needed] | Onatel (state owned) |
| 4 | Smart Mobile (formerly Lacell) | GSM-1800 MHz UMTS | Not Yet Available | Smart Telecom |
Cabo Verde
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 87.5% over a population estimate of 0.5 million.[22]
The telecom regulator in Cabo Verde is Agência Nacional de Comunicações (ANAC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CV Móvel | GSM-900/1800 MHz UMTS | 0.355[23] (September 2009) | Portugal Telecom (40%) |
| 2 | T-MAIS | GSM-900/1800 MHz | 0.047[24] (Q1 2010) | T-Mais |
Cameroon
In July 2011 the penetration rate was estimated at 43% over a population estimate of 19.7 million.[25]
The telecom regulator in Cameroon is Agence de Régulation des Télécommunications (ART).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-MHz 900 | 10.1 [26] (dec 2014) | MTN Group (70%) |
| 2 | Orange | GSM-900 MHz | 6.2 [26] (dec 2014) | Orange S.A. |
| 3 | Nexttel | GSM-900/1800 MHz UMTS | 2.0 [26] (May 2015) | Viettel Global, Bestinver Cameroon S.A.R.L |
| 4 | Camtel | GSM | new licence in September 2014 | Camtel (government) |
| 5 | YooMee | WiMAX | Not yet available | YooMee |
Central African Republic
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 17.2% over a population estimate of 4.9 million.[27]
The telecom regulator in Central African Republic is Agence de régulation des télécommunications (ART).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | telecel | GSM-900 | 0.143[28] (December 2008) | Orascom Telecom |
| 2 | Orange | GSM-1800 (GPRS) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 0.189[29] (December 2009) | Orange S.A. |
| 3 | azur | GSM-900 | 0.158[30] (December 2008) | Bintel |
| 4 | Moov Africa | GSM-900 | Not Yet Available | Maroc Telecom |
Chad
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 24.3% over a population estimate of 10.7 million.[31]
The telecom regulator in Chad is Office Tchadien de Régulation des Télécommunications (OTRT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Moov | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE. 3G HSPA Plus + 2100 MHz,4G LTE 10 MHz ) | 1.257[32] (October 2010) | Maroc Telecom |
| 2 | Airtel | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 1.199 (June 2009) | Bharti Airtel |
Comoros
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 20.8% over a population estimate of 0.8 million.[33]
The telecom regulator in Comoros is Autorité Nationale de Régulation des TIC (ANRTIC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HURI | GSM-900 | 0.056 (2007)[34] | government (Societe Nationale des Telecommunications) |
| 2 | Telma | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE. 3G HSPA Plus + 2100 MHz,4G LTE 10 MHz) | - | Telecom Madagascar |
Congo
In Q4 2015 the penetration rate was estimated at 95.7%[35] over a population estimate of 4.6 million.
The telecom regulator in Congo is Agence de Régulation des postes et des Communications Electroniques (ARPCE).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-900 MHz UMTS, HSPA, HSPA+ | 2.250[36] (Q4 2015) | MTN |
| 2 | Airtel | GSM-900 MHz 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 1.851[36] (Q4 2015) | Bharti Airtel (90%) |
| 3 | Azur | GSM-900/1800 MHz | 0.313[36] (Q4 2015) | Bintel |
Côte d'Ivoire
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 68.5% over a population estimate of 21.5 million.[37]
The telecom regulator in Côte d'Ivoire is Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications/TIC de Côte d'Ivoire (ARTCI).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orange | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 13.531 (Sep 2017)[29] | Orange S.A. (85%), Comafrique (15%) |
| 2 | MTN | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 11.173 (Sep 2017)[38] | MTN (64.7%), Planor (25.3%), Teylium group (10%) |
| 3 | Moov | GSM (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 7.587 (Sep 2017)[24] | Etisalat |
| 4 | Koz | GSM-900/1800 | 2.500 (April 2010)[39] | Comium (licence revoqued)[40] |
| 5 | GreenN | GSM-900/1800 | 0.617 (Q1 2010)[citation needed] | LAP Oricel (licence revoqued)[40] |
| - | Warid | GSM | Not Yet Available | Warid Telecom (licence revoqued)[40] |
| - | Mobile Cafe | GSM | Not Yet Available | Aircomm (licence revoqued)[40] |
| - | YooMee | TD-LTE | Not Yet Available | YooMee |
Democratic Republic of the Congo
In 2016 the penetration rate was estimated at 50% over a population estimate of 80 million.
The telecom regulator in Democratic Republic of the Congo is Agence de Régulation de la Poste et des Télécommunications du Congo (ARPTC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vodacom | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ WiMAX | 13.766[41] (Mar 2014) | Vodacom (51%), Congolese Wireless Network (49%) |
| 2 | Orange | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 10.674[42] (Q3 2015) | Orange S.A. |
| 3 | Africell | GSM UMTS | 5.5 (Dec 2014) | Africell Holding[43] |
| 4 | Airtel | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 5.0[44] (Aug 2012) | Bharti Airtel (98.5%) |
| 5 | Supercell | GSM-900 | 0.028 (covers Kivu only) | [45] |
| 6 | SemaTel | GSM | not started | Hits Telecom[46] (60%) |
| 7 | U-Com | CDMA | not started | Global Vision Telecom (Telecel International)[47] |
| - | Smile | LTE | launch expected in 2016 [48] | Smile Communications (Al-Nahla Technology, Atheeb Trading Company, Capitalworks, Verene) [49] |
Djibouti
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 14.88% over a population estimate of 0.75 million.[50]
The telecom regulator in Djibouti is Ministère de la Communication chargé des Postes et des Télécommunications (MCPT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Evatis | GSM-900 MHz UMTS, HSPA | 0.106 (Q1 2010)[citation needed] | Djibouti Telecom (government) |
Egypt
Egypt has 99 million mobile users as of December 2017, government figures showed.[51]
The telecom regulator in Egypt is National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vodafone Egypt | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA+ LTE | 45.083[52] (Nov 2022) | Vodafone Group plc (55%), Telecom Egypt (45%) |
| 2 | Orange (formerly Mobinil) | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA+ LTE | 27.601[51] (July 2020) | Orange S.A. (99.39%), free float (0.61%) |
| 3 | Etisalat | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA+ LTE | 26.0[51] (July 2020) | Etisalat (76%), Egypt Post (20%), Other Investors (4%) |
| 4 | We (by Telecom Egypt) | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA+ | 1.6 (December 2017) | Egyptian government (80%), free float (20%) |
Equatorial Guinea
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 74% over a population estimate of 0.6 million.[53]
The telecom regulator in Equatorial Guinea is Órgano Regulador de las Telecomunicaciones Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ORTEL).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orange | GSM-900 MHz | 0.333[29] (Dec 2009) | Orange S.A. (40%), Equatorial Guinea state (60%) |
| 2 | Muni | GSM-900/1800 MHz UMTS | 0.150 (September 2013)[citation needed] | Green-com S.A. (Hits Africa) |
| 3 | Gecomsa | not yet available (created in 2012) | Equatorial Guinea state (51%), China state (49%) |
Eritrea
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 3.4% over a population estimate of 5.9 million.[54]
The telecom regulator in Eritrea is Eritrean Communications Regulatory Authority (ECRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eritel | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS) | Not Yet Available | Eritrea Telecommunications Services Corporation |
Ethiopia
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 4.6% over a population estimate of 90.8 million.[55]
The telecom regulator in Ethiopia is Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ethiotelecom | GSM 900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA, HSPA+ | 26.2[56] | Ethiopian Telecommunications Corporation |
| 2 | Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia | 2G, 3G, 4G | Safaricom (55.7%)|Sumitomo Corporation (27.20%)|British International Investment (10.9%)|Vodacom (6.20%) |
Gabon
In June 2018 the penetration rate was estimated to at almost 157%.[57]
The telecom regulator in Gabon is Autorité de Régulation des communications Electroniques et des Postes (ARCEP) https://www.arcep.ga.
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Airtel (formerly Celtel, Zain) | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 1.181 (June 2018)[57] | Bharti Airtel (90%) |
| 2 | Moov Africa Gabon Telecom | GSM-900 MHz | 1.648 (June 2018) [57] | Maroc Telecom (51%), Gabonese government (49%) |
Gambia
In 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 85.53% over a population estimate of 1.77 million.
The telecom regulator in Gambia is Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Africell | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 1.30 (Jan 2015) [citation needed] | Africell Gambia LTD |
| 2 | Comium | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS) | 0.25 (2012) [citation needed] | Comium Group |
| 3 | Gamcel | GSM-900 | 0.24 (2012) [citation needed] | Gambia Telecommunications Cellular Company Ltd |
| 4 | Qcell | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 0.115 (2012) [citation needed] | Qcell |
Ghana
In March 2021 the penetration rate was estimated at 133.14% over a population estimate of 31.1 million.[58]
The telecom regulator in Ghana is National Communications Authority (NCA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 23.23[58] (March 2021) | MTN (97.7%) |
| 2 | Vodafone Ghana | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 7.537[58] (Q3 2023) | Telecel Group (70%) Government of Ghana (30%) |
| 3 | AirtelTigo | 8.32 (March 2021) | Government of Ghana | |
| 4 | Glo | GSM (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 0.78[58] (March 2021) | Globacom |
Guinea
In Q4 2015, the penetration rate was estimated at 99.1%[59] over a population estimate of 10.8 million.
The telecom regulator in Guinea is Autorité de Régulation des Postes et Télécommunications (ARPT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orange | GSM-900/1800 MHz | 5.24[59] (Q4 2015) | Orange S.A. (52.2%) |
| 2 | MTN (formerly Areeba) | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ WiMAX | 3.21[59] (Q4 2015) | MTN (75%) |
| 3 | Cellcom Guinée | GSM-900/1800 MHz 2100 MHz UMTS | 2.14[59] (Q4 2015) | Cellcom Telecommunications Ltd[60] |
| 4 | Intercel | GSM-900 MHz | 0.11[59] (Q4 2015) | Telecel Guinee SARL |
| 5 | Sotelgui | GSM-900 MHz | 0.16 [citation needed] | Telekom Malaysia, government |
Guinea-Bissau
In March 2015 the penetration rate was estimated at 67.0% over a population estimate of 1.75 million.[61]
The telecom regulator in Guinea-Bissau is Autoridade Reguladora Nacional das Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação da Guiné Bissau (ARN).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-900/1800 UMTS | 0.575 (Sep 2014)[38] | MTN Group |
| 2 | Orange | GSM-900/1800 | 0.477 (Dec 2013)[62] | Orange S.A. (52.2%) |
| 3 | Guinetel | GSM-900 | not available | Guinea Telecom |
Iran
In December 2020 the penetration rate was estimated at 151.91% over a population estimate of 80 million.
The telecom regulator in Iran is Communications Regulatory Authority of Iran سازمان تنظيم مقررات و ارتباطات رادیویی (CRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers[63] (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hamrahe Aval | GSM 900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100/900 MHz (HSPA, DC-HSPA+) 1800/2600/2100/900 MHz (LTE, LTE-A), (VoLTE, VoWiFi) | 68 (Q4 2020) | Telecommunication Company of Iran |
| 2 | Irancell | GSM 900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100/900 MHz (HSPA, DC-HSPA+) 1800/2600/2100/900 MHz (LTE, LTE-A), (VoLTE) | 55 (Q4 2020) | Iran Electronic Development Company (51%) MTN Group (49%) |
| 3 | RighTel | 2100/900 MHz (HSPA, DC-HSPA+) 1800 MHz (LTE) | 2.5 (Q1 2018) | Social Security Investment Company |
Iraq
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 74.2% over a population estimate of 30.4 million.[64]
The telecom regulator in Iraq is Communications and Media Commission هيئة الإعلام والإتصالات (CMC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zain | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE, 3G) | 14.9[9] (July 2020) | Zain Group (71.67%) |
| 2 | Asia Cell | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) | 13.3[65] (Q2 2020) | Ooredoo (30%) |
| 3 | Korek | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, HSPA) | Not Yet Available | Korek Telecom Ltd. |
| 4 | Omnnea | CDMA | Not Yet Available | Omnnea |
| 5 | Itisaluna | CDMA 2000 1x & EVDO-450,800,1900 MHz | Not Yet Available | Itisaluna |
Israel
In 2018 the penetration rate was estimated at 111% over a population estimate of over 10 million.
The telecom regulator in Israel is Ministry of Communications משרד התקשורת (MOC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Network Operators | ||||
| 1 | Cellcom | GSM-1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 850/2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA 700/1800/2600 MHz LTE 3500 MHz 5G NR | 3.641[66] (Q3 2020) | DIC (41.77%), Public (58.23%) |
| 2 | Partner | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 700/1800/2100/2600 MHz LTE 3500 MHz 5G NR Radio network shared with Hot Mobile | 2.760[67] (Q3 2020) | S.B. Israel Telecom (30.4%), exclusive Israeli shareholders (5%), Public (64.6%) |
| 3 | Pelephone | 850/2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 700/1800/2600 MHz LTE 3500 MHz 5G NR | 2.406[68] (Q3 2020) | Bezeq |
| 4 | Hot Mobile | 800 MHz iDEN 900/2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 700/1800/2100/2600 MHz LTE 3500 MHz 5G NR Radio network shared with Partner (other than iDEN) | N/A | HOT |
| 5 | Golan Telecom | GSM-1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE 3500 MHz 5G NR | N/A | ELCO Group |
| 6 | XFONE | 1800 MHz LTE | N/A | Marathon Telecom Ltd |
| Mobile Virtual Network Operators | ||||
| 7 | Rami Levy (using Pelephone) | CDMA2000 EV-DO, UMTS, DC-HSPA+, LTE | N/A | Rami Levy Hashikma Marketing |
| 8 | HomeCellular (using Cellcom) | GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, HSPA, LTE | N/A | |
| 9 | 019 Mobile (using Partner) | GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, DC-HSPA+, LTE | N/A | |
| 10 | Cellact (using Pelephone) | CDMA2000 EV-DO, UMTS, DC-HSPA+, LTE | N/A | Cellact Communication |
Jordan
In March 2016 the penetration rate was estimated at 140% over a population estimate of 14.09 million.[69]
The telecom regulator in Jordan is Telecommunications Regulatory Commission هيئة تنظيم قطاع الاتصالات (TRC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zain Jordan | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+, LTE | 4.94[69] (Q1 2016) | Zain Group |
| 2 | Orange Jordan | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+, LTE | 4.59[69] (Q1 2016) | Orange S.A. |
| 3 | Umniah | GSM-1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+, LTE | 4.55[69] (Q1 2016) | Batelco |
Kenya
The country has 40.8 million subscribers in total, or a 76.9% penetration rate.[70] (Jan 2018)
The telecom regulator in Kenya is Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Safaricom | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ WiMAX 800/1800 MHz LTE | 42[71] (2023) | Vodacom (35%) Govt of Kenya (35%) Vodafone Group plc (5%) Public Float (25%) |
| 2 | Airtel Kenya (formerly Zain) | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 18[72] (2023) | Bharti Airtel (80%) |
| 3 | Telkom Kenya (formerly Orange) | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 3[72] (2023) | Government of Kenya[72] |
| 4 | Jamii Telecommunications (Faiba 4G) | LTE-700 MHz | Jamii Telecommunications Limited |
Kuwait
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 164.7% over a population estimate of 2.6 million.[73]
The telecom regulator in Kuwait is the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zain | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 2.6 (Sep 2014)[9] | Zain Group |
| 2 | Ooredoo (formerly Wataniya) | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 1800 MHz LTE | 2.394[65] (Q2 2014) | Ooredoo (52.5%) |
| 3 | Saudi Telecom Company (formerly Viva Kuwait) | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 1.106[when?][citation needed] | STC (26%) |
Lebanon
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 65.9% over a population estimate of 4.1 million.[74]
The telecom regulator in Lebanon is Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | touch | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 800/1800 MHz LTE, LTE-A | 2.4 (Sep 2014)[9] | government - management contract: Zain Group |
| 2 | Alfa | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 800/1800 MHz LTE, LTE-A | 1.8[75] (2014) | government - management contract: Orascom Telecom |
Lesotho
In 2016 the penetration rate was estimated at 86% over a population estimate of 2.2 million.[76]
The telecom regulator in Lesotho is Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vodacom | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA LTE WiMAX | 1.449[77] (2016) | Vodacom (80%), Sekha-Metsi Consortium (20%) |
| 2 | Econet Telecom Lesotho | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS HSDPA | 0.448[77] (2016) | Econet Ezi Cel Lesotho (Pty) |
Liberia
At the end of 2013, the penetration rate was estimated at 68.3% over a population estimate of 3.8 million.[78]
The telecom regulator in Liberia is Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lonestar Cell MTN | GSM-900 | 1.299 (Sep 2014)[38] | MTN (60%) |
| 2 | Orange | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 0.997[78] (end 2013) | Orange Côte d'Ivoire (formerly owned by Cellcom Telecommunications) |
| 3 | Novafone (formerly Comium) | GSM-900 (GPRS) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 0.236[78] (end 2013) | Comium Services BVI |
| 4 | LTC Mobile | ? | 0.005[78] (still active) | Liberia Telecommunications Corporation |
Libya
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 169.74% over a population estimate of 6.6 million.[79]
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Libyana | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE), 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSPA+, 4G, LTE, LTE-A, 5G(testing) | 6.2[80] (December 2019) | State-owned via GPTC |
| 2 | Almadar Aljadid | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE), 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSPA+, | 5.0[81] (December 2019) | State-owned via GPTC |
Madagascar
In 2014 the penetration rate was estimated at 42% (9.7 million) over a population estimate of 23 million.[82]
The telecom regulator in Madagascar is Autorité de Régulation des Technologies de Communication (ARTEC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Airtel | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 2.56 (April 2013)[83] | Bharti Airtel |
| 2 | Telma Mobile | CdmaOne GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA | 1.98 (April 2013) | Distacom Group, Telma SA, Hiridjee group |
| 3 | Orange | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) | 1.85 (April 2013) | Orange S.A. (40.01%) |
| 4 | Blueline | LTE | N/A | Gulfsat |
Malawi
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 19.32% over a population estimate of 15.9 million.[84]
The telecom regulator in Malawi is Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Airtel (formerly Zain) | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 3.5 (September 2015) [85] | Bharti Airtel |
| 2 | TNM | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 2 (July 2013) [86] | Malawi Telecommunications Limited, Telekom Malaysia |
| 3 | MTL (Malawi Telecommunications Limited) | LTE-1800 | Press Corporation, NICO, Malawi Government | |
| 4 | Access | GSM-900, LTE-800 | 0.1 | |
| 5 | G-Mobile (license revoked [87]) | GSM | Globally Advanced Integrated Networks,[88] Beryl (South Africa) | |
| 6 | Lacell | GSM | La Cell Private Limited[89] | |
| 7 | G-Expresso | GSM | Expresso Telecom Group Limited[89] |
Mali
The country had 20.2 million subscribers in total (end 2016), or a 113% penetration rate.[90]
The telecom regulator in Mali is Autorité Malienne de Régulation des Télécommunications/TIC et des Postes (AMRTP).[91]
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orange[92] | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 13.1 (end 2016) | Orange S.A. 52.2% |
| 2 | Moov Africa Malitel[93] | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 7.1 (end 2016) | Maroc Telecom 51%, local investors 20%, government 19%, staff 10%[94] |
| 3 | Planor | GSM | licensed in Jan 2012 | Planor (support of Monaco Telecom) |
Mauritania
At the end 2020 the penetration rate was estimated at 101% over a population estimate of 4 million.[95]
The telecom regulator in Mauritania is Autorité de Régulation (ARE).[96]
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Moov Mauritel | GSM-850 MHz,900 MHz,1800 MHz,1900 MHz UMTS,HSPA+,4G/LTE | 2.600 (Dec 2020)[citation needed] | Maroc Telecom (51.5%) |
| 2 | Chinguitel | GSM-850 MHz,900 MHz,1800 MHz,1900 MHz,CDMA,UMTS,HSPA+ | 1.40 (May 2008) | Sudatel (60%) |
| 3 | MATTEL | GSM- 850 MHz,900 MHz,1800 MHz,1900 MHz,UMTS,HSPA+,4G/LTE | Not Yet Available | Tunisie Telecom (51%), Mauritanian Investors (49%) |
Mauritius
The telecom regulator in Mauritius is Information and Communication Technologies Authority of Mauritius (ICTA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mauritius Telecom | GSM-900 (EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 1800 MHz LTE | 0.628[29] (Dec 2009) | Orange S.A. (40%)| Government of Mauritius (33.49%)| SBM Investments Managers Ltd(19%)| National Pensions Fund (6.55%)| Employees of Mauritius Telecom (0.96%) |
| 2 | Emtel | GSM-900 (EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 1800 MHz LTE | 0.437[97] (Dec 2009) | Currimjee |
| 3 | CHiLi | CdmaOne, EvDo, GSM, UMTS | 0.318 (March 2019) | Mahanagar Telephone Mauritius Limited (MTML) |
Morocco
The country has 55.873 million subscribers in total, or a 150.92% penetration rate.[98] (December 2023)
The telecom regulator in Morocco is Agence Nationale de Réglementation des Telecommunications (ANRT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maroc Telecom | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, 800/1800/2100/2600 MHz LTE, LTE-A | 19.717 (December 2023) | Etisalat (53%), Government Morocco (22%) |
| 2 | Orange Morocco | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, DC HSDPA, 800/1800/2600 MHz LTE, LTE-A | 18.149 (December 2023) | Orange S.A. (49%), FinanceCom+CDG (51%) |
| 3 | inwi | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+, | 18.006 (December 2023) | Zain Group (31%) |
Mozambique
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 27.19% over a population estimate of 22.95 million.[99]
The telecom regulator in Mozambique is Instituto Nacional das Comunicações de Moçambique (INCM).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tmcel | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 5.3[100][when?] | Partially state-owned |
| 2 | Vodacom | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 4.3[41] (Mar 2014) | Vodacom (85%) |
| 3 | Movitel | GSM | 2[101] (May 2013) | Viettel (70%), SPI (30%)[102] |
Namibia
In December 2016 Namibia had 2.66 million active SIM cards.[103]
The telecom regulator in Namibia is Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN).[104]
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTC[105] | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSUPA, HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 2.422 (Dec 2016) | Namibia Post and Telecommunications Holdings (66%) Portugal Telecom (34%) |
| 2 | TN Mobile[106] (formerly Cell One, Leo) | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 0.187 (Dec 2016) | Telecom Namibia Ltd. |
Niger
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 20.63% over a population estimate of 16.5 million.
The telecom regulator is Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications et de la Poste (ARTP).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Airtel | GSM-900 | 1.31 (June 2009) | Bharti |
| 2 | Niger Telecoms | GSM-900 | 2.5 (Q1 2012) | Sahel-Com, Lap Green overtaken by government[107] |
| 3 | Zamani Telecom | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 0.462[29] (Dec 2009) | Zamani Com |
| 4 | Moov Africa Niger | GSM-900 | Not Yet Available | Maroc Telecom |
Nigeria
The telecom regulator in Nigeria is Nigerian Communications Commission.
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 74.04 [108] (May 2021) | MTN (41.5%) |
| 2 | Airtel (formerly Zain) | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 50.02 [109] (May 2021) | Bharti Airtel (20.6%) |
| 3 | Glo Mobile | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 49.78 [110] (May 2021) | Globacom (20.78%) |
| 4 | 9mobile (formerly Etisalat) | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 12.84 [110] (May 2021) | Etisalat, Mubadala, Nigerian Investors (15.60%) |
Oman
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 142.19% over a population estimate of 3 million.[111]
The telecom regulator in Oman is Telecommunications Regulatory Authority هيئة تنظيم الاتصالات (TRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Omantel | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 1800 MHz FD-LTE, 2300 MHz TD-LTE | 2.72[112] (Dec 2013) | Omantel (99%) |
| 2 | Ooredoo (formerly Nawras) | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 800/1800 MHz FD-LTE, 2300 MHz TD-LTE | 2.472[65] (Q2 2014) | Ooredoo (55%) |
Palestine
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 97.5% over a population estimate of 2.5 million.[113]
The telecom regulator in Palestine is Palestinian Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (PTRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jawwal | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 2.45[114] (Q1 2012) | Paltel |
| 2 | Ooredoo | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 0.679[65] (Q2 2014) | Ooredoo (57%), Palestine Investment Fund (43%) |
Qatar
As of Q3 2022, Qatar had 4.5 million active mobile subscribers in total.[115]
The telecom regulator in Qatar is Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ooredoo (formerly Qtel) | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 800/1800/2600 MHz LTE, LTE-A | 2.5[115] (Q3 2022) | Ooredoo |
| 2 | Vodafone | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 800/1800/2600 MHz LTE, LTE-A | 2.0[115] (Q3 2022) | Qatar Foundation LLC (50%), Pension Fund (13.05%), free float (36.95%) |
La Réunion
This French overseas territory has ? million subscribers in total, or a 74.7% penetration rate.[116] (2008)
The telecom regulator in La Réunion is Autorité de Régulation des Communications Electroniques et des Postes (ARCEP).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SFR | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | Not Yet Available | SFR |
| 2 | Orange | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | Not Yet Available | Orange |
| 3 | FREE | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | Not Yet Available | fr: ILIAD and TELCO OI |
Rwanda
In December 2013 the penetration rate was estimated at 63.5% over a population estimate of 11.4 million.[117]
The telecom regulator in Rwanda is Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Agency (RURA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN Rwanda | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 3.65[118] (Dec 2017) | MTN Group (55%), Crystal Telecom (35%) |
| 2 | Airtel | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ LTE | ~5.00 [118] (Dec 2017) | Bharti Airtel |
| - | Rwandatel | CdmaOne GSM-900/1800 2100 MHz UMTS | [119] (license revoked Apr 2011) | LAP Green Networks (80%) |
Saint Helena
As of the 2021 census, 73.7% of households reported having access to at least one mobile phone, and 66.0% reported having access to the internet.[120]
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sure | GSM-900 | Not Yet Available | Batelco |
São Tomé and Príncipe
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 57.94% over a population estimate of 0.18 million.[122]
The telecom regulator in São Tomé and Príncipe is Autoridade Geral de Regulação (AGER).[123]
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CST[124] | GSM-900 UMTS[125] | 0.078[23] (September 2009) | Portugal Telecom (51%) |
Saudi Arabia
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 162.6% over a population estimate of 26.1 million.[126]
The telecom regulator in Saudi Arabia is Communications and Information Technology Commission هيئة الاتصالات وتقنية المعلومات (CITC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | stc | 2G :GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 3G :900/2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 4G FD-LTE :700/1800/2100 MHz 4G TD-LTE :2300 MHz 5G NR:3500 MHz | 19.914[127] (Q3 2010) | 70% state owned and 30% private[citation needed] |
| 2 | Mobily | 2G : GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 3G :900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 4G TD-LTE:2600 MHz 4G FD-LTE:800/1800/2100 MHz | 15.06[127] (Q3 2010) | Etisalat (27.45%) |
| 3 | Zain | 2G:GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 3G:900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 4G FD-LTE:800/900/1800/2100 MHz LTE, LTE-A | 11.40 (Dec 2015) | Zain Group (37%) |
| 4 | Virgin mobile KSA | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 1800 MHz FD-LTE, 2300 MHz TD-LTE | 2.8 (2017)[128] | |
| 5 | Lebara Mobile KSA | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 1800 MHz FD-LTE, 2600 MHz TD-LTE | Lebara |
Senegal
At the end of December 2015 the penetration rate was estimated at 110,74%, over a population estimate of 13,5 millions.[129]
The telecom regulator in Senegal is Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications et des Postes (ARTP).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orange | GSM-900 2100 MHz UMTS | 9.936[129] (31 Dec 2015) | Sonatel, Orange S.A. (52.2%) |
| 2 | Free | GSM-900 UMTS, HSPA+ | 3.355[129] (31 Dec 2015) | Teyliom, NJJ and AXIAN [130] |
| 3 | Expresso | CDMA GSM-900/1800 UMTS | 3.188[129] (31 Dec 2015) | Sudatel |
| 4 | Hayo Telecom | CDMA GSM-900/1800 UMTS | 0.483[129] (31 Dec 2015) | CSU |
Seychelles
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 245% over a population estimate of 0.09 million.[131]
The telecom regulator in Seychelles is Department of Information Communications Technology (ICT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Airtel | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 0.065[132] | Bharti Airtel |
| 2 | Cable & Wireless | GSM-900 MHz | Not Yet Available | Cable & Wireless |
Sierra Leone
The country has 0.8 million subscribers in total, or a 13.23% penetration rate.[133] (2007)
The telecom regulator in Sierra Leone is National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Africell | GSM-900 UMTS | 2.9[134] (Feb 2015) | Lintel Limited |
| 2 | Orange | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 0.644[135] (Feb 2012) | Orange[17] |
| 3 | Sierratel | CDMA | Not Yet Available | government, managed by MDIC[136] |
| 4 | Qcell | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | Qcell | |
| Comium | GSM-900/1800 WiMAX | 0.650[137] (2009) | Comium licence revoked since October 2014,[138] while NATCOM managers have been sacked in 2015[139] | |
| GreenN | GSM | Not Yet Available | Ambitel (LapGreen) licence revoked since September 2014[140] |
Somalia
As of 2009, dial up internet services in Somalia were among the fastest developing in the region, with an annual landline growth rate of over 12.5%. Internet via satellite also had a steady growth rate of 10% to 15% per year.[141]
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hormuud | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 2.38[142] (Q4 2015) | Hormuud Telecom Somalia Inc |
| 2 | Telcom Somalia | GSM 2100 MHz UMTS | 1.00[142] (Q4 2015) | Haatif Telecom Somalia |
| 3 | Telesom Mobile | GSM 2100 MHz UMTS | 0.80[142] (Q4 2015) | Telesom Group |
| 4 | Nationlink | GSM-900 | 0.71[142] (Q4 2015) | Bintel |
| 5 | Somtel | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 0.46[142] (Q4 2015) | Dahabshiil |
| 6 | Golis Telecom Somalia | GSM-900 | 0.24[142] (Q4 2015) | Golis Telecom Somalia, Gaani Wireless |
| 7 | Somafone | GSM-900 | 0.20[142] (Q4 2015) | Somali Telecom Group |
| 8 | Netco | GSM-900 | Not Yet Available | Somali Telecom Group |
| 9 | SomNet[143][144] | GSM-900 LTE | Not Yet Available | SomNet Telecom |
South Africa
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 99.6% over a population estimate of 49 million.[145]
The telecom regulator in South Africa is Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vodacom | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE | 39.433[146] (August 2020) | Vodacom (65.1%) |
| 2 | MTN | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE 5G 3500 MHz | 29.028[147] (August 2020) | MTN Group |
| 3 | Cell C | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 1800/2100 MHz LTE, LTE-A | 14.407[148] (Mar 2020) | Oger Telecom in process of diluting it's 70% stake to 27% Blue Label Telecoms is planning to acquire a 30% stake in Cell C[149] |
| 4 | Telkom | GSM-1800 (GPRS) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 2300 MHz LTE | 4.0[150] (March 2017) | Telkom |
| 5 | Rain | 1800 MHz LTE 5G 3500 MHz | Rain (formerly Wireless Business Solutions) 80% ARC 20% |
South Sudan
The country has 1 million subscribers in total, or an 8% penetration rate.[151]
The telecom regulator in South Sudan is Ministry of Telecommunication and Postal Services (MOTPS).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 0.787[38] (Sep 2014) | MTN Group |
| 2 | Zain | GSM (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 0.664[9] (Sep 2014) | Zain Group |
| 3 | Sudani | GSM (GPRS) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | Not Yet Available | Sudatel[not operationally active] |
| 4 | Vivacell (NOW) | GSM-900/1800 MHz | Not Yet Available | Fattouch Investment Group (75%), Wawat Securities (25%)[152] |
| 5 | Gemtel | GSM-900/1800 MHz | Not Yet Available | Lap Green Networks (80%) |
Sudan
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 42.3% over a population estimate of 45 million.[153]
The telecom regulator in Sudan is National Telecommunication Corporation (NTC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zain | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+, LTE | 11.095[9] (Sep 2014) | Zain Group |
| 2 | MTN | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, LTE | 8.474[38] (Sep 2014) | MTN Group (85%) |
| 3 | Sudani | CDMA GSM-1800 MHz (GPRS) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA | Not Yet Available | Sudatel |
| 4 | Canar | CdmaOne | Not Yet Available | Bank of Khartoum (100%) |
Eswatini
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 49.55% over a population estimate of 1.37 million.[154]
The telecom regulator in Swaziland is Swaziland Communications Commission (SCCom).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 0.928 (Sep 2014)[38] | MTN Group (30%) |
| 2 | Eswatini Mobile | LTE | Not Yet Available |
Syrian Arab Republic
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 46.6% over a population estimate of 22.5 million.[155]
The telecom regulator in Syrian Arab Republic is Syrian Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (SyTRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN (formerly Areeba) | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, LTE | 5.676 (Sep 2014)[38] | MTN Group (39%) |
| 2 | Syriatel | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+, LTE | 7.1 [156] (Aug 2014) | Rami Makhlouf |
Tanzania (United Republic of)
In March 2020 the penetration rate was estimated at 86% [157] over a population estimate of 51 million.
The telecom regulator in Tanzania is Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vodacom | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 15.59 [157] (March 2020) | Vodacom (75%) |
| 2 | Airtel (formerly Zain) | GSM-900/1800 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 13.39 [157] (March 2020) | Bharti Airtel (51%) |
| 3 | Tigo | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ LTE | 12.64 [157] (March 2020) | Axian Group |
| 4 | Halotel | GSM UMTS | 5.5 | Viettel Tanzania Limited (Subsidiary of Viettel Group[158][159]) |
| 5 | Zantel | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 0.93 [157] (March 2020) | Etisalat (51%) and Zanzibar Telecom Ltd |
Togo
In June 2014 the penetration rate was estimated at 60.7% over a population estimate of 7.2 million.[160]
The telecom regulator in Togo is Autorité de Règlementation des secteurs de Postes et de Télécommunications (ARTP).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Togocel | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 2.751 (Q4 2014) [citation needed] | Togo Telecom (state owned) |
| 2 | Moov Africa Togo | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) | 1.648 (Q4 2014) [citation needed] | Maroc Telecom |
Tunisia
The country has 14.7 million subscribers in total, or about 125.6% penetration rate.[161] (Q3 2017)
The telecom regulator in Tunisia is Instance Nationale des Télécommunications (INT).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ooredoo (formerly Tunisiana) | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+, DC-HSPA+ | 8,836,544 [161] (Q3 2017) | Ooredoo (75%) |
| 2 | Tunisie Telecom | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 4,462,998 [161] (Q3 2017) | Tunisie Télécom Group (65%), Tecom DIG (35%) [162] |
| 3 | Orange | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 3,907,791 [161] (Q3 2017) | Orange S.A., Divona |
Türkiye Cumhuriyeti
Türkiye Cumhuriyeti has 91.3 million subscribers in total, or a 107.1% penetration rate.[163] (Q2 2023)
The telecom regulator in Turkey is Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK : Bilgi Teknolojileri ve Iletisim Kurumu).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Turkcell | GSM 900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA, HSPA+, DC-HSPA+, 3C-HSDPA 800/900/1800/2100/2600 MHz LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro VoLTE, VoWiFi 5G (testing) | 37.64 (Q2 2023)[163] | Turkey Wealth Fund (26.2%), LetterOne (19.8%), free float (54%) |
| 2 | Vodafone (Formerly Telsim) | GSM 900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA, HSPA+, DC-HSPA+ 800/900/1800/2100/2600 MHz LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro VoLTE, VoWiFi 5G (testing) | 24.890 (Q3 2024)[163] | Vodafone Group plc |
| 3 | Türk Telekom (Formerly Avea, Aria, Aycell) | GSM 900 (only in rural areas)/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA, HSPA+, DC-HSPA+ 800/900/1800/2100/2600 MHz LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro VoLTE, VoWiFi 5G (testing) | 25.61 (Q2 2023)[163] | Türk Telekom |
Uganda
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 30.78% over a population estimate of 34.6 million.[164]
The telecom regulator in Uganda is Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN Uganda | CDMA GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 2600 MHz TD-LTE WiMAX | 10.181[38] (September 2014) | MTN Group (96%) |
| 2 | Airtel Uganda | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 4.6 [165] (April 2013) | Bharti Airtel |
| 3 | UTel | CdmaOne GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 1.0 (July 2016) | Uganda Telecommunications Corporation Limited |
| 4 | Smile Telecom (Uganda) | |||
| 5 | Lycamobile |
United Arab Emirates
As of June 2023, the total number of active mobile subscriptions was 20.3 million.[166]
The telecom regulator in United Arab Emirates is Telecommunications Regulatory Authority الهيئة العامة لتنظيم قطاع الاتصالات (TRA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Etisalat | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 900 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 800/1800/2100/2600/3500 MHz LTE, LTE-A, 5G NR | 10.8[167] (July 2019) | UAE Federal Government (40%) and public shareholders (60%) |
| 2 | du | GSM-900/1800 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ 800/1800/2100/2600/3500 MHz LTE, LTE-A, 5G NR | 7.9[168] (2022) | UAE Federal Government (39.5%), Mubadala Development Company (19.75%), TECOM Investments (19.5%), and public shareholders (21.25%) |
Yemen
In September 2010 the penetration rate was estimated at 38.4% over a population estimate of 24.1 million.[169] Because of unreliable coverage of mobile services in certain areas, particularly in rural areas, it is common for Yemenis to utilize a phone with Dual SIM capability.
The telecom regulator in Yemen is the Public Telecommunication Corporation.
| Rank | Operator | Mobile Prefix | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yemen Mobile | +967-77 | CDMA2000/1xEVDO-RevA (800 MHz) 4G LTE FDD: Bands 3, 20, 28 (700/800/1800 MHz)[170] | 9.5 (2021)[171] | Government-run company with shareholders. |
| 2 | Sabafon | +967-71 | GSM 900 MHz | 6 (2021)[172] | Al-Ahmar Group Batelco Hayel Saeed Anam & Co. Ltd. Consolidated Constructors International company S.A.L. (CCC) |
| 3 | YOU (formerly, MTN) | +967-73 | GSM 900 MHz | 4.7 (2021)[173] | Emerald International Investment, a subsidiary of the Zubair Corporation [174] |
| 4 | Y Telecom (formerly HiTS-UNITEL) | +967-70 | GSM 900 MHz | Unknown | Formerly, owned by Saudi and Kuwaiti corporations. Currently owned by the family of Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi[175] |
Zambia
In December 2011 the penetration rate was estimated at 62% over a population estimate of 13.9 million.[176]
The telecom regulator in Zambia is Zambia Information & Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MTN | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, DC-HSPA+ | 4.447[38] (Sep 2014) | MTN Group |
| 2 | Airtel | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 4.04[177] (May 2014) | Bharti Airtel (78.88%) |
| 3 | Zamtel | GSM-900 MHz (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ | 1.2 (Dec 2011)[citation needed] | Zambia Telecommunications Company Ltd |
Zimbabwe
In December 2011 the penetration rate was estimated at 74.7% to 9.037 million subscribers.[178]
The telecom regulator in Zimbabwe is Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ).
| Rank | Operator | Technology | Subscribers (in millions) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Econet | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 1800 MHz LTE WiMAX | 5.686[179] (February 2012) | Econet Wireless (Private) Limited |
| 2 | telecel | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA | 1.875 [179] (February 2012) | State-owned |
| 3 | NetOne | GSM-900 (GPRS, EDGE) 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 1800 MHz LTE | 1.456[179] (February 2012) | NetOne Cellular (Pvt) Ltd (government) |