MENA Enterprises to Invest Heavily in Digital Transformation Despite Regulatory Delays

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Enterprises in the Middle East and North Africa expect to allocate 9.3% of revenues to digital transformation by 2032, though one in nine have delayed projects due to telecoms policy and regulatory hurdles, GSMA Intelligence reveals.

Enterprises across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region are preparing for significant digital transformation investments in the coming years, according to recent findings from GSMA Intelligence showcased at the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Doha. On average, companies plan to dedicate approximately 9.3% of their revenues to digital initiatives through to 2032, signaling a substantial commitment to advancing their technological infrastructure and capabilities.

Despite this optimistic outlook, the report highlights that regulatory and policy challenges remain a notable obstacle. About one in nine enterprises in the MENA region reported postponing some digital investment projects over the past two years due to complexities in telecoms policy and regulatory frameworks. These delays may slow the pace at which companies can implement innovative technologies that are crucial for competitiveness and efficiency in an increasingly digital economy.

The GSMA Intelligence research reflects the growing awareness among MENA enterprises of the critical role that digital transformation plays in business growth and resilience. Yet, it also underscores a pressing need for policy reforms to align with the rapid technological evolution and to facilitate smoother implementation processes.

Industry experts attending MWC26 pointed out that addressing such regulatory bottlenecks would be essential for the MENA region to fully capitalize on the benefits of digital technologies, including improved connectivity, automation, and data analytics capabilities.

The findings suggest that while the appetite for digital investment in MENA remains strong, governments and regulators might need to engage more closely with stakeholders to streamline telecom regulations and support the digital economy’s expansion. This approach could help minimize project delays and unlock the full potential of digital transformation across diverse sectors in the region.

The GSMA Intelligence insights offer a valuable perspective on the intersection of technology investment and regulatory environments, providing guidance for policymakers and business leaders aiming to foster a digitally empowered MENA region.