Kuwait’s 5G networks move from coverage to AI deployment focused on efficiency

Zain Kuwait has become the first telecom operator in MENA to run end-to-end AI across its 5G-Advanced network, the company said. The move comes after Zain wrapped early gaming tests that showed some 60% improvement in performance indicators covering latency, jitter, and throughput.

How it works: The new AI layer coordinates the radio and core networks in real time, shifting resources to where demand is, ensuring efficiency in connectivity.

The upgrade is backed by a 40% increase in Zain’s capex 40% to USD 1.5 bn in 2025, equal to a fifth of revenue. Its Kuwait unit grew revenue 4% to KD 386 mn, which the group credits to enterprise and government business and the 5G-A launch.

BACKGROUND- All three of Kuwait’s telecom operators launched commercial 5G-Advanced at the end of June 2025 — a nationwide-build developed by Huawei and local partner Knetco. Zain has added more than 500 5G-A sites since.

On Kuwait’s borders, Iraq is also working on its telecoms infrastructure, but from a lower base. The country’s General Company for Communications and Informatics signed an MoU with Huawei to develop its telecoms infrastructure and explore 5G development. Iraq is still operating on 4G, with plans to begin rolling out 5G service next year. Asiacell, one of Iraq’s three current operators, is first in line to roll out the service, with approvals currently pending.