The Middle East market expects a surge in wireless broadband

Mobile penetration in the Middle East reached 56% at end 1H08, although this figure is much higher across GCC markets. We expect these more mature markets to see a surge in wireless broadband usage as operators look to develop their networks and drive an increase in data traffic levels.

This superlative growth translates to a myriad of opportunities in the region. This December, Informa Telecoms & Media's GSM>3G Middle East - Towards a Broadband World will bring together 2500+ telco decision makers, 160 exhibitors and 65+ expert speakers for agenda setting, strategic debate. Reflecting the changing dynamics of the telco market, the congress has extended beyond mobile to focus on the opportunities presented by convergence, the evolution to 3G, broadband and beyond.

Abdulaziz Ibrahim Fakhroo, Chairman, GSM Arab World supports the expanded agenda:

"An annual meeting place for every kind of operator and service provider, as well as investors, technology vendors, regulatory agencies and all other players in mobile and broadband. The conference will focus on all competing and complementary forms of broadband access and services, and the appeal is now truly global as the telecoms businesses of the Middle East expand into emerging markets beyond the region."

WiMAX - the new kid on the block

Informa Telecoms & Media believes there will be only 650,000 mobile WiMAX subscriptions by the end of 2012, with rival mobile broadband technologies, particularly HSDPA and its successors, set to remain more popular. Despite some barriers to high take-up - a lack of equipment and spectrum availability - mobile WiMAX does have some potential, and used as a platform for convergence, it could yet exceed current expectations.

1 of the 6 conference streams and an afternoon plenary session in GSM>3G Middle East - Towards a Broadband World will be dedicated to Wireless Technology Evolution and Broadband Networks. MENA Telecom Bahrain, Zain Bahrain and Packet One Malaysia will detail their experiences of WiMAX rollout in sessions interspersed with an HSPA masterclass and case studies in CDMA and HSPA deployment.

The other 8 streams and plenary sessions that make up the strategic conference will include case studies, panel sessions and presentations on:
• Wireless Technology Evolution - HSPA and Beyond
• Effective Fixed Mobile Convergence Strategies
• Using Marketing to Outdistance the Competition
• Building Future Wireless Broadband Networks


• The Emergence of MVNOs and the Implications for the Region
• Growing the Market for VAS
• Maximising Efficiencies through Managed Services & BPO
• Thriving in New Regulatory & Competitive Environments

"This year's GSM>3G Middle East - Towards a Broadband World is positioned to set the Telco Agenda for the Middle East," explains Informa Telecoms & Media CEO, Ian Hemming. "With senior level attendance from 90+ operator companies, this is the de-facto one-stop shop for the region's telcos to network, learn and do business."

The 13th annual GSM>3G Middle East - Towards a Broadband World will take place 15-16 December in the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dubai, UAE. Attendance is free to operators and regulators and exhibition only passes are available.