Kuwait leads digital change: 5G, FTTH and cybersecurity in focus!

Kuwait leads digital change: 5G, FTTH and cybersecurity in focus!

In recent years, the digital landscape of Kuwaits has changed rapidly. With an internet penetration rate of around 99.6 % and over 4.5 million inhabitants, the country has developed into a remarkable actor in the field of digital technologies. According to msig , most households are now equipped with fiber optic services that offer speeds of up to 1 GBPS.

There are more than 7.1 million mobile phone subscriptions in the mobile area, which indicates that the Kuwaiters are happy to use several devices. Since the introduction of 5G networks in 2019, many users have learned to appreciate the advantages of this new technology that offers average download speeds of 250 MbPs. In comparison, it is also exciting to observe that providers such as STC, Ooredoo and Zain Kuwait dominate about 95 % of the market and recorded significant growth rates in 2024.

economic diversification through digital transformation

A central component of the Kuwaiti future plan "Vision 2035" is the diversification of the economy. In this way, the country wants to develop from oil addiction and to a regional financial center. This vision includes not only investments in digital infrastructures, but also the promotion of innovations as well as the creation of an ecosystem for start-ups, as it is Trade.gov

Information and communication technology (ICT) is considered a key area with a market size of $ 22.48 billion in 2023, which could grow to $ 39.83 billion by 2028. The focus is on innovative technologies such as 5G and 6G. In addition, Kuwait strives to digitize over 90 % of its government services to increase efficiency and transparency.

cybersecurity as an increasingly important aspect

With the increase in digital services, the need for robust security measures also grows. The city has experienced an increase in cyber attacks in recent years and has even been identified as the third strongest goal for ransomware attacks within the Golf cooperation council. The competition on the cybersecurity market is strong, and according to a forecast of Statista will increase to 89.43 million US dollars, with security services to have the largest share in it.

Kuwaits National Cybersecurity Center, which was launched in 2022, plays a crucial role in protecting critical infrastructures. It focuses on the integrated risk management strategy and the protection of sensitive data, which also includes the legal obligation to store certain data within Kuwaits.

future prospects and opportunities

The future for the digital economy in Kuwait looks promising. The implementation of 5G, the expansion of fiber optic networks and the development of smart city projects offer basic building blocks for a technologically advanced country. In addition, the demand for advanced threat protection solutions remains high in view of the increasing cyber threats. The regulating bodies, such as the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (Citra), promote competition and at the same time promote consumer rights, which supports a healthy and dynamic market.

With a view to the coming years, exciting events such as the Gitex Global Tech Exhibition and Leap Tech events in the region will enable the exchange of ideas and innovations, while Kuwait is further strengthening its place in the global digital ecosystem.