Zain to Start Operating in Syria Within Days, 5G Next Year

Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdulsalam Haykal announced at the SYNC 26 technology and entrepreneurship conference that Zain will begin operating in Syria within days and is preparing to launch a full 5G network at the start of next year.

Academic View on Prospects

Dr. Musab Shabib, Dean of the Faculty of Informatics at Idlib University, told Al-Watan that Zain's success will depend not only on the size of the investment, but on its ability to balance network realities, community needs, competitive requirements and the priorities of the coming phase.

Infrastructure Priorities

Shabib said the priority is to address several core issues:

• Power outages.
• Damaged telecom stations.
• Weak fiber optic networks.
• Limited international connectivity.
• Difficulties with maintenance and securing equipment.

He added that a commercial launch does not automatically mean every area is ready for advanced technologies such as 5G. In his view, a phased plan is needed, starting with wider coverage and better network stability, then moving to more advanced services according to each area's readiness.

Zain's Experience in Iraq

Shabib pointed to Zain's experience in Iraq as a useful reference, explaining that the company relied on continuous investment, expanded sites, network upgrades and new technologies launched in successive stages. He said projects in challenging environments need an operating system able to sustain itself and deliver stable service.

Competition and User Needs

Shabib said competition will center on coverage quality, internet speed, prices and enterprise services, and noted the importance of clear regulation that ensures equal opportunities, protects consumers and encourages long-term investment.

He said the project should be tied to the real needs of Syrians through affordable packages, coverage outside cities and support for education, work and digital services, adding that the value of the investment lies in turning telecoms into a tool for recovery, business growth and job creation.