LTE in the Middle East

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- The Middle East is expected to be an LTE powerhouse with an expected 18.3 million subscriptions across nine AME countries (excluding figures for Kuwait) by 2016. But before the benefits of LTE can be realized, operators must carefully consider the design of the LTE network they deploy, as well as when and why to make the LTE upgrade, according to a new report from Pyramid Research.

LTE in the Middle East: Timing and Pricing Are Key, but So Is Device Strategy examines the current status of LTE in the Middle East and the decline of 2G, the congestion found on 3G networks and the strengths of LTE in order to demonstrate the efficacy of LTE in the Middle Eastern context. Pyramid Research also suggests directions for future LTE rollout design to improve customer experience by expanding data-carrying capacity and reach. Next, Pyramid discusses three pricing strategies and the importance of making a variety of affordable LTE-capable devices available to customers when LTE service is introduced. Throughout this analysis, case studies from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates provide insight into how LTE rollouts are currently being managed and planned. Finally, Pyramid provide recommendations that will help guide operators in the Middle East and beyond that are looking to join the LTE fray.

Download an excerpt or purchase the report here. For more information, contact Jarka Justova or Lorena Marani (for those in Latin America).

"In nine countries – Bahrain, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates – we have seen great interest in LTE technology, ranging from full-blown rollouts to trial demonstrations," says Ronda Zelezny-Green, Associate Research Analyst at Pyramid Research. This is because these countries already enjoy high levels of mobile phone penetration and most have a base of users with high levels of disposable income and a passion for the latest and greatest technology.

Pyramid Research believes that LTE has the potential to be a competitive technology in the Middle East. However, in order to maximize the ROI for LTE, the network rollout must be handled with care. For operators that have already launched, successful management of LTE networks will be imperative, too. "Before the benefits of LTE can be realized, operators must carefully consider the design of the LTE network they deploy, as well as when and why to make the LTE upgrade. Operators must also team LTE rollouts with pricing plans that are in reach of their target consumer base and clearly outlined, and ensure that existing and potential customers understand and appreciate the inherent value of making the switch to LTE," Green adds.

LTE in the Middle East: Timing and Pricing Are Key, but So Is Device Strategy is part of Pyramid Research's Telecom Insider Report Series and is priced at $595. Download an excerpt or purchase the report here. For more information, contact Jarka Justova or Lorena Marani (for those in Latin America).

Pyramid Research