Egypt Launches Its Largest-Ever Frequency Spectrum Deal: $3.5 Billion and Usage Rights Until 2039

Cairo – EcoPulse24

In a move described as historic and unprecedented, Dr. Amr Talaat, Egypt’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, announced the release of 410 MHz of new mobile frequency spectrum under the 2026-2030 spectrum strategy. The total value of the deal is $3.5 billion, with operators granted usage rights until 2039. The payment will be made in US dollars over five annual installments, beginning in 2026 and ending in 2030.

This allocation equals all the frequencies made available to Egyptian mobile operators over the past 30 years, effectively doubling network capacity and enabling more efficient services. All mobile operators in Egypt are included in the deal, and the proceeds will be paid directly to the state treasury, supporting foreign currency reserves.

For the first time, the frequencies are offered under a usufruct (usage rights) model, not outright sale. After 2039, the frequencies revert to the state, preserving this strategic resource for future generations.

Key figures:
- Total value: $3.5 billion
- Capacity: 410 MHz
- Payment period: 5 years (2026-2030)
- Currency: US dollar
- Usage right duration: until 2039

The deal represents 35% of all telecom sector investments since 1994 and matches the total spectrum previously allocated over three decades.

Benefits for users include improved service quality, faster internet (especially on 4G and 5G), reduced network congestion, and support for new applications like IoT and smart cities. The National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA) held extensive workshops with operators to assess their needs across various frequency bands.

The official signing ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly on February 7, 2026, included government officials and company representatives.

Strategic benefits:
- For the state: $3.5 billion in new revenue, stronger foreign reserves, future recovery of frequencies, and digital infrastructure development.
- For operators: Enhanced service quality, operational capacity, and flexible installment payments.
- For citizens: Faster, more reliable internet, wider coverage, and potentially more competitive pricing.

Key terms explained:
- Frequency Spectrum: Electromagnetic bands enabling wireless data and voice transmission.
- MHz: Unit of frequency (1 million hertz); higher MHz means more network capacity.
- Usufruct Rights: Temporary usage rights, not full ownership.
- NTRA: The Egyptian telecom regulator overseeing spectrum allocation and service quality.
- 4G/5G: Fourth and fifth-generation mobile networks, offering increased speed and new technology support.

Last updated: February 8, 2026.