GCC 5G IoT Market Overview
As per MRFR analysis, the GCC 5G IoT Market Size was estimated at 71.96 (USD Million) in 2023.The GCC 5G IoT Market Industry is expected to grow from 91.2(USD Million) in 2024 to 195.6 (USD Million) by 2035. The GCC 5G IoT Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 7.183% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Key GCC 5G IoT Market Trends Highlighted
The GCC 5G IoT Market is currently undergoing a number of significant trends that are being driven by technological advancements and a transition to digital transformation. The adoption of 5G IoT solutions is significantly influenced by the increased government investment in digital infrastructure and smart city initiatives. For example, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are currently initiating initiatives that integrate IoT devices into urban planning and resource management, thereby improving sustainability and efficiency.
The expansion of 5G networks is driven by the increasing demand for data processing capabilities and higher connectivity in a variety of industries, such as healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing.
This technology enables real-time data analytics and enhanced operational efficiency. The GCC market is experiencing a rapid emergence of opportunities as businesses attempt to capitalize on the advantages of low-latency communication that 5G offers. Additionally, the region is experiencing an increasing number of partnerships between telecommunications providers and developers of IoT solutions.
These partnerships are designed to establish comprehensive ecosystems that facilitate a wide range of applications, including automated supply chain processes and remote healthcare solutions.
Furthermore, the heightened accessibility of IoT devices and platforms is motivating startups and SMEs to create distinctive applications that are specifically designed to meet the requirements of the local market. The GCC has experienced a recent increase in the number of initiatives that are aimed at improving cybersecurity measures for IoT devices as the number of connected devices continues to increase.
This heightened emphasis on security is essential for the purpose of fostering widespread adoption and preserving user trust. Additionally, the GCC's emphasis on environmental responsibility and sustainability is encouraging industries to implement innovative solutions that enhance resource management and reduce waste. Consequently, the GCC 5G IoT market is on the brink of substantial expansion, propelled by these enabling trends that facilitate economic development and industry transformation.

GCC 5G IoT Market Drivers
Government Initiatives and Investments
The Government of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has been actively promoting the adoption of 5G technology through various initiatives aimed at enhancing digital transformation across industries.
In particular, national policies such as the UAE's Vision 2021 and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 are driving investments in infrastructure development and smart city projects, establishing a conducive environment for the GCC 5G Internet of Things (IoT) Market Industry.
For instance, official reports reveal that the combined investments for digital economy initiatives in the GCC are expected to exceed USD 100 billion by 2025. Additionally, the growing collaboration between telecom operators like Etisalat and STC with technology firms is resulting in advancements in 5G IoT deployment, further stimulating market growth.
These government-led programs not only aim to boost connectivity and economic diversification but also serve as a backbone for the rapid escalation of IoT applications in the region, indicating a robust forecast for the GCC 5G IoT Market.
Rising Demand for Smart City Solutions
The demand for smart city solutions in the GCC region has surged significantly, driven by urbanization and the need for efficient resource management. According to the Gulf Cooperation Council Smart City Index, cities like Dubai and Riyadh are investing significantly in smart technologies to improve urban living, which propels the utilization of 5G IoT systems.
For instance, Dubai aims to become the world's smartest city by 2021, with a significant portion of its resources allocated towards developing smart infrastructure and IoT solutions.
This transition is expected to create an increasing number of use cases for the GCC 5G IoT Market Industry, from smart lighting to traffic management systems, thus attracting both public and private sector investments.
Increased Internet Connectivity and Mobile Device Penetration
With the GCC region witnessing a remarkable increase in internet connectivity and mobile device penetration, the market for 5G IoT applications is set to expand rapidly. Statistics show that mobile connectivity in the GCC is pegged to grow by over 15% annually, with smartphone penetration rates already exceeding 90%.
The GCC 5G IoT Market Industry stands to benefit from this trend, as enhanced mobile connectivity allows for quicker data transfer and communication between devices, which is essential for IoT applications.
Organizations such as Ooredoo and du are at the forefront, enhancing network capabilities and expanding their 5G infrastructure, thus creating a favorable ecosystem for the adoption of IoT technologies in sectors like healthcare and manufacturing.
Focus on Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation
The GCC region is experiencing a shift towards Industry 4.0, characterized by automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies. This transformation is being fueled by the integration of IoT, big data analytics, and robotics, leading to increased operational efficiency and productivity. GCC governments are emphasizing digital transformation initiatives within sectors such as oil and gas, logistics, and manufacturing.
According to the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in the UAE, about 60% of manufacturers are expected to adopt IoT-enabled technologies by 2025.This focus on digital transformation ensures continuous growth opportunities for the GCC 5G IoT Market Industry as organizations seek to leverage data to enhance decision-making and optimize processes.
GCC 5G IoT Market Segment Insights
5G IoT Market Service Insights
The Service segment of the GCC 5G IoT Market plays a pivotal role in the advancement of connectivity and automation within the region, driven by rising demand for high-speed internet and seamless connectivity across various sectors. Enhanced Mobile Broadband is particularly crucial, catering to the increasing data needs of consumers and businesses alike, enabling applications that require fast and reliable internet connectivity.
This segment supports a wide array of applications ranging from augmented reality experiences to smart city initiatives, demonstrating its significance in fostering innovation and enhancing the quality of life in GCC nations.
Additionally, Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications serves as a backbone for mission-critical applications in areas such as healthcare, transportation, and industrial automation. This sub-sector ensures that communications are not only timely but also dependable, which is essential for applications that rely on real-time data transmission, such as remote surgeries and autonomous vehicles.
Furthermore, Massive Machine Type Communications is instrumental in supporting a burgeoning ecosystem of connected devices. With IoT devices proliferating, this service type enables seamless communication between machines, driving efficiency in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture.
The GCC region, through governmental initiatives and investments, has focused on developing a robust infrastructure to support these services, which in turn promotes economic diversification and enhances overall productivity. The synergy among these service types within the GCC 5G IoT Market segment is fostering a more interconnected and technologically advanced society, setting a strong foundation for future advancements in various sectors.
Overall, the vitality of services in the 5G IoT context in the GCC region reflects a commitment to embracing emerging technologies, which can ultimately lead to improved quality of life, organizational efficiency, and sustained economic growth.As the region continues to hone its infrastructure and regulatory framework, the growth potential of these services is immense, presenting numerous opportunities for stakeholders across the board.

5G IoT Market Technology Insights
The GCC 5G IoT Market within the Technology segment plays a pivotal role in the region's digital transformation journey. Notably, the 5G New Radio Standalone Architecture is significant as it provides enhanced networking capabilities and greater efficiency, enabling the deployment of innovative applications across various industries, including smart cities and healthcare. This architecture allows for lower latency and improved reliability, making it essential for mission-critical applications.
On the other hand, the 5G New Radio Non-Standalone Architecture serves as a bridge for operators transitioning from existing 4G LTE networks to the robust 5G landscape.Its importance lies in supporting seamless connectivity while operators upgrade infrastructure, thus fostering an environment conducive to rapid technological advancement.
As cities in the GCC continue to focus on smart solutions and IoT integration, the demand for both architectures is set to increase significantly, highlighting their pivotal role in the overall progression of the GCC 5G IoT Market industry.
Moreover, with ongoing government initiatives promoting digital innovation and infrastructure development, the Technology segment is expected to see substantial growth opportunities in the evolving marketplace.
5G IoT Market Type Insights
The GCC 5G IoT Market has experienced significant growth, driven by emerging technologies and increasing demand for efficient connectivity. In this market, the Type segment includes Short-Range IoT Devices and Wide-Range IoT Devices, each with its unique advantages tailored to various applications. Short-Range IoT Devices play a crucial role in environments where quick data transmission is essential, such as smart homes and healthcare sectors where immediate responses and localized operations are necessary.
Conversely, Wide-Range IoT Devices cater to large-area applications, including smart cities and industrial automation, enabling vast coverage and extensive data collection across diverse platforms.In recent years, the GCC region has witnessed growing initiatives to enhance digital infrastructure through government-driven policies, facilitating the deployment of 5G.
This environment fosters innovation and growth opportunities for both types of devices as businesses increasingly leverage them to improve operational efficiency and customer experiences. The ongoing development of advanced communication protocols complements these device types, enabling enhanced interconnectivity and interoperability that support a broader range of applications, solidifying their importance within the GCC 5G IoT ecosystem.
5G IoT Market Vertical Insights
The GCC 5G IoT Market exhibits a dynamic landscape across various verticals, significantly contributing to its overall growth. In sectors such as Consumer Electronics, the integration of 5G technology empowers smart devices to communicate seamlessly, enhancing user experience and driving market demand.
Automotive applications leverage 5G for connected vehicles, promoting safety and efficiency, while the Railway sector benefits from improved operational efficiency and real-time monitoring.
In Mining, 5G facilitates remote operations and automation, vital for safety and productivity.The Utilities sector also sees transformation through smart grids, enabling better resource management and efficiency. Healthcare is significantly impacted by the ability to support telemedicine and health monitoring systems. Agriculture benefits from precision farming technologies, optimizing yields and resource usage.
Manufacturing processes are enhanced through smart factory solutions that increase productivity and reduce downtime. As these verticals embrace 5G innovation, they position the GCC region as a hub for technological advancement, aligning with governmental initiatives that aim to diversify economies and leverage emerging technologies for sustainable growth.The diverse applications within these sectors further underscore the role of 5G IoT in shaping the future of industrial transformation in the GCC region.
GCC 5G IoT Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The GCC 5G IoT market has been gaining significant traction as countries in the region continue to invest in advanced mobile network technologies. This market is characterized by increasing demand for high-speed connectivity and the integration of IoT devices across various sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and smart cities. As 5G networks roll out, competition intensifies among key players who are shaping the market dynamics through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships.
The landscape is buzzing with opportunities driven by government initiatives aiming to enhance digital infrastructure and enhance the region's position as a tech hub.
Various companies are vying for market share, focusing on developing robust IoT solutions that can leverage the ultra-low latency and high bandwidth capabilities offered by 5G technology.Qualcomm has established itself as a formidable player in the GCC 5G IoT market thanks to its strong emphasis on research and development. The company is known for its advanced semiconductor technologies, which provide the backbone for numerous IoT devices.
Qualcomm's strengths in this domain stem from its leading-edge 5G chipsets that have been instrumental in driving fast and reliable connectivity for IoT applications. Its extensive ecosystem of partnerships with OEMs and telecom providers enhances market penetration and strengthens its positioning in the region.
In addition, Qualcomm frequently collaborates with local entities to tailor its solutions, aligning with the unique needs of various industries across the GCC, ensuring that it remains agile and responsive to market demands.Cisco has carved a significant niche in the GCC 5G IoT market by offering a comprehensive suite of networking solutions tailored for IoT implementations. The company's strengths lie in its expertise in providing scalable and secure infrastructure, enabling seamless device connectivity and data management across multiple sectors.
Cisco's key products in the region encompass IoT networking hardware, mobile edge computing solutions, and advanced analytics platforms, allowing businesses to make data-driven decisions. The company maintains a strong market presence through strategic partnerships and collaborations, fostering innovation and enhancing its service offerings.
With a focus on transformative solutions, Cisco continuously invests in research and development and explores mergers and acquisitions to bolster its capabilities in the GCC market, remaining committed to driving the evolution of IoT within a 5G-enabled framework.
Key Companies in the GCC 5G IoT Market Include
- Qualcomm
- Cisco
- Intel
- ZTE
- Qatar Telecommunications Company
- Ooredoo
- Saudi Telecom Company
- Huawei
- Nokia
- Etisalat
- Bahrain Telecommunications Company
- Microsoft
- Ericsson
- IBM
- Du
GCC 5G IoT Market Industry Developments
In September 2023, Ooredoo announced the launch of its dedicated 5G IoT network in Qatar, enhancing connectivity for smart devices across various sectors. Meanwhile, Saudi Telecom Company has completed trials for advanced 5G IoT solutions, demonstrating its commitment to leveraging this technology for diversified applications.
Moreover, Etisalat has partnered with Nokia to implement IoT solutions that improve smart city initiatives across the UAE.In terms of mergers and acquisitions, in August 2023, ZTE confirmed its acquisition of a local tech firm, strengthening its position within the GCC 5G ecosystem.
In April 2023, Qatar Telecommunications Company secured a partnership agreement with Microsoft to foster innovation in IoT services. The market is projected to grow substantially as companies continue to invest in IoT infrastructure, with market valuation increasing due to rising demand from various sectors, including healthcare and smart cities.
Over the past few years, the GCC has made substantial investments in 5G technology, further enhancing the region's capabilities in IoT deployment and integration.
GCC 5G IoT Market Segmentation Insights
5G IoT Market Service Outlook
- Enhanced Mobile Broadband
- Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications
- Massive Machine Type Communications
5G IoT Market Technology Outlook
- 5G New Radio Standalone Architecture
- 5G New Radio Non-Standalone Architecture
5G IoT Market Type Outlook
- Short-Range IoT Devices
- Wide-Range IoT Devices
5G IoT Market Vertical Outlook
- Consumer Electronics
- Automotive
- Railway
- Mining
- Utilities
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
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Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
Details |
MARKET SIZE 2023 |
71.96(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2024 |
91.2(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2035 |
195.6(USD Million) |
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) |
7.183% (2025 - 2035) |
REPORT COVERAGE |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
BASE YEAR |
2024 |
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD |
2025 - 2035 |
HISTORICAL DATA |
2019 - 2024 |
MARKET FORECAST UNITS |
USD Million |
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED |
Qualcomm, Cisco, Intel, ZTE, Qatar Telecommunications Company, Ooredoo, Saudi Telecom Company, Huawei, Nokia, Etisalat, Bahrain Telecommunications Company, Microsoft, Ericsson, IBM, Du |
SEGMENTS COVERED |
Service, Technology, Type, Vertical |
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Smart city infrastructure development, Industrial automation solutions, Enhanced healthcare telematics, Connected vehicle technologies, Agriculture precision monitoring |
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
Rapid technology adoption, Government initiatives and regulations, Increased investments in infrastructure, Growing demand for smart solutions, Enhanced connectivity and reliability |
COUNTRIES COVERED |
GCC |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The GCC 5G IoT Market is expected to be valued at 91.2 USD Million in 2024.
The market is anticipated to reach 195.6 USD Million by the year 2035.
The expected CAGR for the GCC 5G IoT Market during this period is 7.183%.
Among the segments, Enhanced Mobile Broadband is projected to have significant market share, growing from 30.0 USD Million in 2024 to 70.0 USD Million in 2035.
This segment is expected to be valued at 25.0 USD Million in 2024 and 50.0 USD Million in 2035.
By 2035, the Massive Machine Type Communications segment is forecasted to reach 75.6 USD Million.
Key players in the market include Qualcomm, Cisco, Intel, ZTE, and regional telecom companies like Ooredoo and Saudi Telecom Company.
The increasing demand for ultra-reliable low-latency communications is a prominent trend shaping the market.
Each segment shows distinct growth, with Enhanced Mobile Broadband and Massive Machine Type Communications demonstrating notable expansions.
Applications such as smart cities, industrial automation, and connected healthcare are key drivers of market growth.