NEWS
Qatar and UAE top Ookla Speedtest Intelligence data study with 370 Mbps + 5G roaming speeds
A study based on Speedtest Intelligence data by Ookla , a global provider in connectivity intelligence , has revealed that Gulf nations offer some of the best 5G roaming speeds globally , facilitating an enhanced digital experience for visitors . The study assessed the mobile user experience of inbound roamers visiting Gulf countries , including Kuwait , Qatar , Saudi
Arabia , and UAE , in 2024 and compared it with their home network experiences .
Karim Yaici , Lead Industry Analyst , Middle East and Africa at Ookla , said : “ By leveraging 5G technology ’ s capabilities when roaming , users can access high-speed internet , stream HD videos , and perform lag-free video calls .”
The research revealed that many travellers visiting Qatar , UAE , and Kuwait enjoyed top speeds on 5G networks , with median download speeds over 5G reaching 381.05 Mbps in Qatar , 374.60 Mbps in the UAE , and 240.37 Mbps in Kuwait . It also revealed that visitors to the Middle East from Austria , Saudi Arabia , and Hong Kong were most likely to use 5G while roaming . On the other hand , travellers from Pakistan ,
India , and Egypt were identified as being least likely to use 5G while roaming .
In the UAE , over 37 % of roaming users anonymously identified by Speedtest were visitors from India , Saudi Arabia , Austria , Russia , and Hong Kong . However , their network experiences varied significantly , with Saudi Arabian and Russian travellers experiencing the fastest download speeds across all technologies and over 5G .
Russian tourists experienced more than a threefold increase in median download speeds compared to their home networks .
On the other hand , travellers from Austria , India , and Hong Kong experienced comparatively lower performances in the UAE . Saudi visitors to Kuwait experienced a high 5G roaming speed of 240.37 Mbps , but their ‘ all technologies ’ speeds were around 40 % lower than 5G .
Ooredoo Qatar upgrades Aamali Mobile , Mobile Broadband and introduces Aamali GoConnect
Ooredoo Qatar , the nation ’ s telecommunications provider , has announced significant upgrades to its popular Aamali portfolio , designed to deliver a unified ecosystem of solutions that keeps businesses connected . These upgrades focus on key offerings , including enhanced Aamali Mobile and Mobile Broadband , as well as the introduction of the all-new Aamali GoConnect , all empowering customers to stay productive and ahead in today ’ s increasingly demanding business environments .
The upgraded Aamali Mobile plans now offer a simplified structure to suit businesses of all sizes , from Standard plans with customisable add-ons to Advanced and Premium tiers with unlimited data , calls , and Roam Like Home in 35 countries . The newly introduced Aamali Mobile 1500 plan , tailored for executives , includes exceptional benefits such as two free Multi SIMs with 100GB each and a new device every 12 months .
For businesses on the move , the new Aamali Mobile Broadband plans deliver reliable internet connectivity with options ranging from 150GB to 5TB . The new 5TB 5G Extreme Plus SIM plan is designed for highdemand users , providing full-speed data and Roam Like Home in 35 countries , making it ideal for industries such as content creation , remote education , and e-gaming .
Ooredoo has also launched Aamali GoConnect , a revolutionary solution combining premium eSIM-enabled devices with global data plans . Customers can lease-toown laptops and tablets , benefit from up to 400GB of global data , and receive complimentary Accidental Damage Support throughout the agreement period . With seamless connectivity in Ooredoo Passport partner countries , Aamali GoConnect ensures uninterrupted productivity , no matter where businesses operate .
Thani Al Malki , Chief Business Officer at Ooredoo Qatar , commented : “ With enhanced plans and the introduction of Aamali GoConnect , we are equipping our customers with the tools and connectivity they need to thrive in today ’ s digital-first marketplace .”
14 INTELLIGENTCIO MIDDLE EAST www . intelligentcio . com