Egypt is transforming its telecommunication sector by officially finalizing a historic AED 12.8 billion spectrum agreement with the nation’s 4 major mobile operators. This massive deal, signed on 7 February 2026, doubles the amount of wireless frequency available to Vodafone Egypt, Orange Egypt, e& Egypt, and Telecom Egypt (WE).
By adding 410 MHz of new capacity, equivalent to all the spectrum released over the last 30 years, the Egyptian government is ensuring that high-speed 5G services reach millions of its citizens and businesses.
This deal is a major upgrade for Egypt’s connection to the world. For a long time, the country had limited mobile data capacity, which led to slow internet and crowded networks. The government has now added significant new capacity. Communications Minister Amr Talaat said this sector has attracted massive capital inflows within a short time.
According to TechAfrica News, "The deal provides mobile network operators with an additional 410 MHz of spectrum, an amount equivalent to the total allocated over the past three decades" (published 9 February 2026). This means phone networks will be able to handle more data at once, ensuring people experience less ‘buffering’ and fewer dropped calls.
While the AED 12.8 billion deal may look expensive, it is important to understand how it helps local people and small businesses. New 5G mobile plans may be available in the next 6 months, some designed exclusively for gamers who need high speeds, while others could help small businesses maintain their online presence.
Local businesses like farms and clinics can also benefit from better internet connectivity, as it helps them track products and talk to customers easily. Shop owners might receive faster digital payments, and high-quality video calls can help doctors with remote diagnosis.
As Vox Markets explains, "The next phase of the programme... will involve spectrum in the 1,800MHz and 3,500MHz bands," which are critical for city-wide 5G capacity (published 9 February 2026). New ‘Smart City’ projects will likely begin in Cairo in the next few months.