New 20-Year Mobile License Offers Strategic Entry into Syria’s Telecom Market
The license is designed to strengthen Syria’s digital infrastructure, supporting the rollout of 5G services and improving coverage in rural and underserved areas.
Syria’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCT) has opened an international tender for a 20-year mobile network operator license, providing a strategic opportunity for investors to enter an underpenetrated market with significant growth potential. The new license will replace MTN Syria ’s operations, giving the winning operator control of an existing network and subscriber base, enabling immediate revenue generation.
The license is designed to strengthen Syria’s digital infrastructure, supporting the rollout of 5G services and improving coverage in rural and underserved areas. With around six million active subscribers, a 37% market share, and a resilient retention rate, the new operator will inherit a strong operational base within a two-operator market structure. No third mobile license will be issued for the next five years, ensuring market stability.
The spectrum package includes access to key bands from 800 MHz to 3500 MHz, offering nationwide coverage and long-term capacity for advanced mobile broadband. The license also allows phased capital expenditure over a five-year transition period, supporting cost-efficient network upgrades and 5G deployment.
The tender process will follow a six-step approach, starting with the release of the Request for Applications and draft license on March 3, 2026, with the final award expected by May 30. The license structure follows a Build–Transfer–Operate model, giving the operator control of existing assets while enabling sustained growth and modernization across Syria’s telecom sector.
