Madar Research releases projected figures for 2008

The forecast will identify how mobile phone subscriptions will grow from its current level. At a level of 44 million subscriptions as of September 2004, Madar Research projects this figure to rise to 110 million by the end of 2008.

While mobile phone subscriptions will witness a 26 percent compound average growth rate (CAGR) over 2003-2008. The number of Internet users is projected to increase to 52 million. The Internet figure demonstrates a 35 percent CAGR over the same period.

'These figures bear much significance on how information and communication technology companies (ICT) draw their long term business development models in the region,' states Abdul Kader Kamli, Research Director and President of Madar Research.

An in depth look for future business opportunities in the Arab ICT industry, namely mobile phone and Internet use reports, is demonstrated through Madar Research's report available in 18 Arab countries. Recently published, this report can also be found at the Madar Research stand located within the DIC Community Zone during GITEX.

Concluded Kamli: 'Notwithstanding impressive increase in the number of Internet users across the Arab world - which is even higher than the growth mobile phone subscriptions will undergo in the next four years - there will be more than twice as many mobile phone lines in use than Internet users by end 2008.'

During GITEX Madar Research has also launched Volume III of Dubai Knowledge Economy 2003-2008. The complete series of Dubai Knowledge Economy offers an in depth look into the development of Dubai's information society. With compiled information based on analysis of today's statistics and planned projects, Volume III includes forecasts for the next four years.