GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Research Report By Solutions (Voice Termination, SMS Messaging Services, VoIP Solutions, Data Roaming Services, International Call Services, SIP Trunking, Mobile Number Portability, Cloud Communication Services, Network Security Solutions), By Organization Size (SMEs, Large Enterprises) andBy Passive Device Type (Internet Service Providers (ISPS), Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), VoIP Service Providers, Cable TV Operators, Government Agencies, Educational Institutes, Content Providers, Others)- Forecast

GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Overview

As per MRFR analysis, the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Size was estimated at 5.28 (USD Billion) in 2023. The GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Industry is expected to grow from 5.89(USD Billion) in 2024 to 19.92 (USD Billion) by 2035. The GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 11.714% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).

Key GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Trends Highlighted

The GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market is currently experiencing significant growth driven by the rising demand for high-quality connectivity and the expansion of digital services across the region. Key market drivers include the increasing penetration of smartphones, widespread internet adoption, and government initiatives aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure. Countries like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in 5G technology and smart city projects, creating an ecosystem conducive to telecom growth. Opportunities lie in the expansion of fiber optic networks and data centers, which are essential for supporting the burgeoning demand for data services and cloud computing.

Moreover, as firms in the region's industries continue pursuing digital transformation, collaborations between technology companies and telecom operators are emerging, allowing for more innovative services. Recently, the market has experienced a trend of inter-carrier collaborations and consolidations, which enable cost-sharing along with wider coverage. The ongoing shift towards sustainability and energy-efficient technologies is affecting telecom strategies, too, as many operators are trying to lower their carbon footprints while staying competitive. In addition, the easing of restrictions in some Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has opened the telecommunications market to new competitors, which has raised competition and improved services.

Overall, the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market is poised for substantial advancements as digital transformation continues to gain momentum in the region.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Drivers

Increasing Demand for High-Speed Internet Services

The GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Industry is experiencing a significant surge in demand for high-speed internet services, driven by the rapid digitization of various sectors such as education, healthcare, and e-commerce. According to the Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) of Saudi Arabia, the number of broadband subscriptions reached 18.5 million in 2021, showcasing a substantial demand for enhanced connectivity solutions.

Additionally, the proliferation of mobile devices and smart technologies is expected to accelerate this growth, with data consumption projected to quadruple in the region by 2025. Major players like STC and Etisalat are investing heavily in infrastructure development, aiming to cater to this increasing demand while enhancing network capabilities and service quality in the GCC.

Government Initiatives and Policies Supporting Telecom Growth

Governments across the GCC region are actively promoting digital transformation through various initiatives that benefit the Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Industry. For instance, the UAE Vision 2021 emphasizes the importance of enhancing digital infrastructure and fostering innovation within the telecom sector. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 also aims to improve the country's digital services, with investments aimed at boosting telecommunications infrastructure by 40% over the next decade.

These policies are expected to create a favorable environment for telecom carriers, enhancing the market by enabling better connectivity solutions and increasing investments from established organizations such as Du and Ooredoo.

Adoption of 5G Technology

The rollout and adoption of 5G technology in the GCC region are anticipated to be major drivers of growth in the Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Industry. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 5G technology is expected to generate more than 1.3 trillion USD in economic value globally by 2035. In the GCC, this trend is evident as countries like Qatar and the UAE have already initiated 5G services, with operators such as Qatari Ooredoo and Etisalat leading the deployment efforts.

The introduction of 5G not only enables faster internet speeds but also supports the growth of IoT applications, which are crucial for smart city developments in the region, thus expanding market opportunities for telecom carriers.

GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Segment Insights

Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Solutions Insights

The Solutions segment within the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market encompasses a variety of services that play a crucial role in modern telecommunications infrastructure, reaching a market estimated to be valued at 5.89 Billion USD by 2024. This segment includes services such as Voice Termination, SMS Messaging Services, VoIP Solutions, and Data Roaming Services, which are increasingly critical due to the rising demand for seamless communication across borders. Voice Termination stands out as a pivotal offering, facilitating international calls and ensuring superior call quality, which is vital for both personal and business communications. SMS Messaging Services continue to flourish as businesses increasingly use this channel for marketing and customer engagement, enhancing user experience and satisfaction. The VoIP Solutions segment has gained significant traction, driven by the necessity for cost-effective communication options and flexible connectivity, which appeals to both enterprises and individual users in the GCC region.

Additionally, Data Roaming Services are vital, especially with the increasing mobility of users and the growth of mobile devices, contributing to the connectivity needs of travelers in the GCC, where tourism plays an essential part in the economic landscape. International Call Services offers further enhancements to voice demands, allowing users to connect globally with reduced costs and improved reliability. Moreover, SIP Trunking has become increasingly significant, enabling businesses to integrate their voice services with existing data infrastructures, facilitating easy scalability and improving operational efficiency. Mobile Number Portability has further transformed consumer behavior by providing users the freedom to switch telecom providers without losing their phone number, enhancing competition and service quality among carriers.

As businesses evolve towards cloud technologies, Cloud Communication Services present a range of solutions for enhancing collaboration and communication through scalable platforms. Network Security Solutions are paramount in securing communications against cyber threats, addressing growing concerns regarding data privacy and regulatory requirements in the GCC nations, where cyber security is a key focus given the rapid digitization. Overall, the Solutions segment reflects the dynamic nature of the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market, where the increasing demand for innovative and reliable communication services drives competition and technological advancement, supporting the region's economic growth and interconnectivity aspirations. As various solutions continue to emerge, they reinforce the GCC's position as a hub for telecom services in the region, addressing the needs of both enterprise and individual customers effectively.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Organization Size Insights

The GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market showcases a diverse and dynamic landscape shaped by Organization Size, encompassing both Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Large Enterprises. SMEs play a crucial role in the region's economic development, accounting for a significant share of total enterprises and contributing actively to employment and innovation. Their agility allows for rapid adoption of new technologies, enhancing service offerings and competition within the telecom sector. Large Enterprises, on the other hand, dominate the market with substantial resources, enabling them to invest heavily in infrastructure and advanced technologies.

This segment benefits from extensive networks and partnerships that enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. The growth of the digital economy within the GCC further drives demand in both segments, propelled by governmental initiatives aimed at diversifying economies and developing smart city projects. As a result, the development of the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market not only reflects the robust growth trajectory of these organizations but also highlights the ongoing transformation in the telecom landscape influenced by emerging trends such as cloud connectivity, 5G deployment, and the increasing need for reliable and scalable communication solutions.

The combined efforts of SMEs and Large Enterprises are essential in shaping a competitive and sustainable telecom environment, providing substantial value to customers and facilitating the region's digital transformation.

Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Passive Device Type Insights

The Passive Device Type segment within the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market plays a vital role in shaping the telecommunications landscape of the region, driven by rising demand for seamless connectivity and advanced digital solutions. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are significant contributors to this sector, as they facilitate robust internet access essential for both personal and business requirements. Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) dominate the market, focusing on enhancing mobile broadband services to accommodate the growing number of smartphone users and mobile data consumption trends.VoIP Service Providers ensure affordable and reliable communication services, catering to both local and international demands.

Additionally, Cable TV Operators are adapting to changing consumer preferences, integrating OTT services, and enhancing customer experience through innovative passive devices. Government Agencies and Educational Institutes increasingly leverage this technology for e-governance and distance learning, respectively, accentuating the importance of efficient communication infrastructure in both public and academic domains. Content Providers continually seek to optimize distribution through effective passive devices, playing a crucial role in the GCC’s digital economy.

The interconnectivity and functionalities among these segments exemplify the evolving dynamics of the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market, asserting its importance in a technology-driven environment.

GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Key Players and Competitive Insights

The GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market is characterized by its dynamic landscape, driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving consumer demands, and an increasing emphasis on digitalization across the region. As a vital segment of the telecommunications industry, wholesale carriers play a crucial role in enabling connectivity and delivering various telecommunications services to end-users. Competitive insights into this market indicate a strong focus on innovation, price competitiveness, and the strategic development of value-added services, which are fundamental for sustaining market leadership. The market is marked by a diverse range of players, including traditional telecom operators and new entrants, all vying for market share through enhanced service packages and robust infrastructure investments. Additionally, regional dynamics, such as regulatory frameworks and economies of scale, significantly influence the competitive landscape, pushing companies to adapt and evolve continuously.

Qatar Telecom operates with significant strengths that enable it to maintain a robust position within the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market. The company has invested heavily in enhancing its infrastructure, thereby ensuring high-quality and reliable connectivity services across the region. Due to its strategic partnerships and collaborations, Qatar Telecom can offer a range of competitive services tailored to meet the needs of wholesale customers, from voice and data services to advanced digital solutions. Moreover, the company has established a strong presence in various GCC countries, leveraging its extensive network to provide seamless interconnectivity and diversify its service offerings. Qatar Telecom's focus on innovation and quality has allowed it to outperform many competitors, thereby solidifying its reputation as a leading player in the wholesale telecom space.

Omantel has emerged as a key player in the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market, distinguished by its comprehensive portfolio of services and a strong market presence in the region. The company offers a variety of key products, including international voice, data services, and capacity leasing, which cater to the needs of a wide array of clients. Omantel's strengths lie in its expansive network, which ensures reliable connectivity, and its commitment to quality and performance, making it a trusted partner for telecommunication services. The company has also actively pursued mergers and acquisitions to bolster its market position and broaden its service capabilities. This strategy not only enhances its operational efficiencies but also allows Omantel to expand its reach within the GCC. The ongoing investment in technology and infrastructure exemplifies the company’s dedication to staying competitive in a continually evolving market landscape, ensuring its place as a prominent player in the wholesale telecom sector.

Key Companies in the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Include

• Qatar Telecom


• Omantel


• Etisalat


• Vodafone Qatar


• Zain


• Bahrain Telecommunications Company


• Viva Bahrain


• Reliance Jio


• Omani Qatari Telecommunications


• Telecom Egypt


• STC


• du


• Ooredoo

GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Industry Developments

Recent developments in the GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market have shown significant shifts, particularly with investments in infrastructure and technology upgrades. Qatar Telecom is modernizing its network to support increased demand for high-speed data services, while Omantel has been focusing on expanding its international connectivity through partnerships. In September 2023, Etisalat and Vodafone Qatar intensified their collaboration in 5G technology to enhance service delivery. 

Meanwhile, Zain and Bahrain Telecommunications Company are improving their digital offerings to strengthen market competitiveness. There have been notable mergers and acquisitions, such as STC's acquisition of a minority stake in Omani Qatari Telecommunications in August 2023, enhancing regional synergies. The market valuation is expected to grow substantially, driven by advancements in cloud services and the increasing demand for data across the region. Additional happenings in the last couple of years included Viva Bahrain's strategic investments in data centers and du's expansion into AI-driven services, reflecting a trend towards modernization and increased capacity across the GCC telecom landscape.

GCC Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Segmentation Insights

Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Solutions Outlook

• Voice Termination


• SMS Messaging Services


• VoIP Solutions


• Data Roaming Services


• International Call Services


• SIP Trunking


• Mobile Number Portability


• Cloud Communication Services


• Network Security Solutions

Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Organization Size Outlook

• SMEs


• Large Enterprises

Wholesale Telecom Carrier Market Passive Device Type Outlook

• Internet Service Providers (ISPS)


• Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)


• VoIP Service Providers


• Cable TV Operators


• Government Agencies


• Educational Institutes


• Content Providers


• Others

Report Attribute/Metric Source:	Details
MARKET SIZE 2018	5.28(USD Billion)
MARKET SIZE 2024	5.89(USD Billion)
MARKET SIZE 2035	19.92(USD Billion)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)	11.714% (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 Billion
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED	Qatar Telecom, Omantel, Etisalat, Vodafone Qatar, Zain, Bahrain Telecommunications Company, Viva Bahrain, Reliance Jio, Omani Qatari Telecommunications, Telecom Egypt, STC, du, Ooredoo
SEGMENTS COVERED	Solutions, Organization Size, Passive Device Type
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES	5G infrastructure deployment, Cross-border telecom partnerships, Enhanced data center services, VoIP and cloud solutions, IoT connectivity expansion
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS	increasing demand for data services, expansion of 5G networks, competition among regional carriers, regulatory changes and mandates, strategic partnerships and alliances
COUNTRIES COVERED	GCC