In a strategic move that amplifies its reach and impact, IICIE 2026 is co-located with the 27th China International Optoelectronic Exposition (CIOE 2026) and the 23rd Shenzhen International Electronics & Embedded Expo (elexcon 2026). This powerful three-show convergence spans a record-breaking 340,000 square meters, hosts over 5,000 exhibitors and is expecting to attract more than 240,000 professional visitors from across the semiconductor, optoelectronics, and electronics sectors. A single badge grants access to all three events, delivering an unprecedented, cross-industry resource integration and business matching platform that effectively bridges the gap between chip design, manufacturing, photonics, and embedded systems.

A Full-Chain Showcase from Silicon to Systems

IICIE 2026 has assembled the entire semiconductor manufacturing chain within Halls 14-16, creating a comprehensive ecosystem that encompasses IDMs, fabless companies, foundries, and OSATs. The exhibition demonstrates the industry’s full-spectrum capabilities, with leading players from each critical segment showcasing their latest innovations:

• Chip Design and Applications: The expo features a powerhouse of design houses, including BYD Semiconductor, CR Micro, iA Semiconductor, Montage Technology, Sanechips, and Unigroup Guoxin. These innovators are showcasing cutting-edge products for high-performance computing, automotive electronics, and consumer electronics, such as ultra-high-performance cloud security chips, memory expansion controllers, RISC-V CPUs, and 4nm automotive-grade intelligent driving chips.
• Foundry and OSAT Leaders: The critical manufacturing backbone is strongly represented by industry giants like GTA Semiconductor, HT-tech, Huahong Group, Nexchip, XMC, and Tongfu Microelectronics, who are demonstrating 12-inch wafers (28nm process technologies), silicon photonics wafers, and advanced 3D integration technologies.
• Equipment & Materials Ecosystem: IICIE 2026 highlights the industry’s drive for self-reliance with a significant presence of key equipment and materials suppliers. Major equipment manufacturers such as ACM Research, Aspiring Semiconductor, Hwatsing, and Piotech are exhibiting alongside materials leaders like Anji Microelectronics, NSIG, and TankeBlue.
• Core Parts: The critical role of domestic components is on display, with leading suppliers like SKY, SIASUN Microelectronics, and VACREE showcasing essential parts like vacuum pumps, electrostatic chucks, and RF power supplies, which are vital for a robust and secure supply chain.

Hot Technology Zones and University Research Showcase

This year’s IICIE is sharply focused on the industry’s most dynamic growth areas. The show floor is abuzz with featured zones for chip applications, chips, and RISC-V ecosystem, where pioneers like C*Core Technology, Sophgo Technologies, and Xuantie are demonstrating their full-scenario RISC-V solutions. The dedicated IWAPS lithography Zone further unites metrology, inspection, and process control players to support the stable mass production of advanced lithography processes.

Furthermore, a dedicated University & Research Institute Zone has been established in Hall 16, bridging the gap between academic innovation and industrial application. Top-tier institutions, including School of Integrated Circuits, Tsinghua University; Shanghai Insititute of IC Materials; School of Integrated Circuits, Sun Yat-sen University; Guanzhou HKUST Fok Ying Tung Research Institute, and more, are presenting cutting-edge research such as wafer-level thin-film lithium niobate photonic chips and advanced packaging reliability solutions.

A Premier Forum for Global Industry Insights

Complementing the expansive exhibition, IICIE 2026 hosts over 20 high-level professional forums and conferences. Flagship events include the International Workshop on Advanced Patterning Solutions (IWAPS), focusing on the latest lithography technologies, and the Global Semiconductor Analyst Conference, themed “Navigating the New Semiconductor Era 2026-2030,” which brings together global analysts to decode the industry’s transformation path toward collaborative innovation. A key session will also feature Counterpoint Research discussing global automotive market trends and semiconductor demand, underscoring the expo’s role as a knowledge hub.

The launch of IICIE as a full-chain platform could not come at a more critical time for the global semiconductor industry. With the surge in AI, HPC, and automotive applications, the need for a deeply integrated, cross-industry collaboration platform is paramount. IICIE 2026, in synergy with our partner shows, is that platform – where the entire ecosystem converges to drive innovation, tackle challenges, and forge the future of the IC industry.

IICIE 2026 runs from September 9-11. For more information, please visit the official IICIE website: https://iicieexpo.com/en/index.html

Running from September 9 to 11, CIOE 2026 has evolved beyond a standalone exhibition into a massive 340,000-square-meter “Mega Show” through strategic co-location with the International Integrated Circuit Innovation Expo (IICIE) and Shenzhen International Electronics & Embedded Expo (elexcon). This tri-show convergence brings together over 5,000 exhibitors and is projected to attract more than 240,000 professional attendees from over 30 countries and regions, transforming the venue into a comprehensive industrial ecosystem connecting photonics, semiconductors, and electronics.

The AI Imperative: Optical Interconnects Take Center Stage

The spotlight at CIOE 2026 falls squarely on the Information and Communication Expo, which has evolved into the definitive showcase for addressing the bandwidth, power, and density bottlenecks of AI computing clusters. As large language models and AI training clusters expand to hundreds of thousands of GPUs, traditional copper interconnects are reaching fundamental physical limits. The industry consensus is clear: the future of AI infrastructure is optical.

This year’s show floor demonstrates the industry’s rapid shift toward high-speed photonics. Leading manufacturers are showcasing the full spectrum of enabling technologies:

• High-Speed Optical Modules: Following the large-scale commercialization of 800G modules, the industry is now accelerating toward 1.6T and beyond. LightCounting projects 800G and 1.6T modules to reach a combined market of approximately $14.6 billion in 2026, accounting for roughly 64% of the optical module market. Chinese module makers are advancing rapidly, with major players demonstrating complete 400G-to-1.6T lineups built on silicon photonics and thin-film lithium niobate, alongside next-generation approaches such as LPO, NPO, and CPO.
• Next-Generation Optical Engines and Chips: CIOE 2026 features advanced solutions from global technology leaders, including POET Technologies showcasing its high-power laser light sources for AI interconnects. Domestic champions like ZJEAGLES COMSEMI Semiconductor are presenting GaAs and InP dual-material-system products covering both AI optical interconnect and physical AI applications.
• Silicon Photonics and CPO Solutions: Co-packaged optics (CPO) and silicon photonic integrated circuits (PICs) are taking center stage as critical enablers for reducing power consumption and increasing interconnect density. Equipment providers such as ASMPT are demonstrating high-precision die bonding and multi-chip integration solutions that address the key challenge of transitioning CPO from technology validation to stable, repeatable, and scalable mass production.
• The Complete Computing Chain: Thanks to the three-show convergence, visitors can explore the entire AI computing value chain in one venue from silicon photonic chip fabrication and advanced packaging to high-speed optical interconnects, HBM memory, power delivery, and data center system clusters.

Eight Thematic Expos Covering the Full Photonics Spectrum

Beyond the information and communication sector, CIOE 2026 features seven additional thematic expos that together cover the entire optoelectronics ecosystem:

• Precision Optics & Camera Technology Expo: Focused on AI-powered computational optics, this expo showcases optical materials, optical lens, camera modules, test and measurement equipment, and optical imaging system driving innovations in consumer electronics, automotive vision, medical, and industrial machine vision.
• Laser Technology & Intelligent Manufacturing Expo: Presenting laser sources, intelligent laser equipment, and automated precision production lines that are transforming manufacturing across semiconductors, new energy, and industrial automation.
• Infrared Applications Expo: Highlighting the convergence of AI and infrared thermal imaging, with commercial applications in in-vehicle perception, drone surveillance, industrial quality inspection, security, and robotics.
• Intelligent Sensing Expo: Covering LiDAR, 3D sensing, spectral sensing, and industrial sensors for intelligent driving, robotics, consumer electronics, smart homes, and environmental monitoring.
• Display Technology Expo: Featuring Mini/Micro LED, advanced display materials, intelligent display modules, automotive displays, and flexible displays with AI-powered image optimization and dynamic power management.
• AR & VR Expo: Showcasing AI glasses, Pancake VR optical architectures, metasurface optical components, and AI-simulated optical path systems for next-generation immersive experiences.
• Photonics Innovation Expo: Bringing together technology startups, research institutes, and university-led commercialization projects to bridge the gap between laboratory research and market applications.

Specialized Featured Zones and Real-World Demonstrations

CIOE 2026 features several dedicated product and technology zones that provide hands-on exposure to cutting-edge applications. These include the Automotive Optical Communication Zone, Embodied Robot Zone, Automotive Display Zone, XR Glasses Teardown Zone, Telescope and Astronomical Equipment Zone, Laser Medical Aesthetics Zone, and multiple Advanced Manufacturing Zones covering laser welding and optical precision fabrication.

90+ Forums Bringing Global Industry Insight

Complementing the expansive exhibition, CIOE 2026 hosts over 90 concurrent forums and conferences that bring together industry leaders, academic experts, and investment professionals. Flagship events include the Information Communication Industry Forum, the Optics Industry Forum, and the Laser Industry Forum, covering topics from high-speed optical transmission and AI computing interconnects to computational optical imaging and precision manufacturing. International partners including Yole Group, the European Photonics Industry Consortium, and ePIXfab are contributing global perspectives on market trends and technology roadmaps.

CIOE 2026 has truly become the strategic nexus where the photonics and AI industries converge. With the explosive growth of AI infrastructure, optical interconnect has shifted from a supporting technology to a core strategic asset. This year’s three-show convergence creates an ecosystem that addresses the complete AI computing chain from semiconductor manufacturing and advanced packaging to high-speed optical interconnects and system deployment. We are proud to be the platform where the industry comes together to drive innovation, tackle challenges, and build the future of computing.

CIOE 2026 will continue through September 11 at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center. For more information, please visit the official CIOE website at www.cioe.cn/en.

The project will add to Torrecom’s inventory of over 2,550 towers in Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and Paraguay as well as Peru, improving local connectivity standards.

Apparently, IDB Invest led and structured the $140 million long-term financing package with 5 international investors comprised of development finance institutions, funds, and commercial banks, including Allianz Credit Emerging Markets Fund, DEG, Proparco, and ILX Fund as well as BAC.

This contract is indeed a milestone in the execution of the Originate-to-Share business model of IDB Invest. It serves as a reflection of IDB Invest’s function as a bridge connecting international private-sector investors with the potential of Latin America and the Caribbean. IDB Invest applies deep regional understanding and novel financial structuring to turn development possibilities into viable monetary assets and attract global capital at scale.

The effort will encourage tower co-location to enhance network productivity and support the expansion of next-generation technologies like 5G. The project is anticipated to minimize costs, optimize utilization of resources, and permit mobile network operators to prioritize capital on core network improvements by means of the promotion of infrastructure collaboration.

As per the president of the IDB Group, Ilan Goldfajn, “Expanding access to robust digital infrastructure is key to driving productivity and unlocking new economic opportunities across Latin America and the Caribbean. Initiatives like this help accelerate innovation, strengthen competitiveness, and support sustained growth in the region.”

Maria Scotti, CEO of Torrecom, adds that “At Torrecom, we are committed to expanding the wireless infrastructure needed to strengthen connectivity and support the continued growth of digital services across Latin America. We see significant opportunities to extend infrastructure into markets where demand for connectivity continues to grow, and we look forward to working with IDB Invest to assist in advancing more accessible infrastructure in the region.”

It is worth noting that Latin America also saw major improvements in mobile broadband availability, with 4G coverage in 90% in most nations. But still 5G penetration is less than 15%, indicating the need to continue investing to remain competitive. Torrecom’s expansion will be critical to satisfying the increasing demand for data and fostering economic growth throughout the region.

In addition to financing, IDB Invest will assist Torrecom with advisory services in order to bolster its Social Engagement Plan.

This deal to expand digital infrastructure in Latin America highlights commitment by IDB Invest to improve connectivity and encourage investment from the private sector within Latin America.

According to Justin Hotard, Nokia’s President and CEO, AI-RAN is the most significant advancement in radio in decades.  AI-RAN helps make the network smarter, connects AI to the physical world, and enables telecommunications companies to get more from their current infrastructure, which includes a software upgrade path to 6G. The anyRAN software of Nokia, backed by NVIDIA’s Aerial AI-RAN platform, allows for more performance from the spectrum operators already own and can be implemented with current Nokia or ORAN-compliant radio units. This implies higher performance, better returns, and faster distribution of new services to operators.

It is worth noting that Nokia’s first commercial AI-RAN platform offers a step change in network performance along with economics, built on AI-native network architecture of Nokia and NVIDIA’s accelerated computing. AI-driven radio developments have already enabled the AI-RAN platform to accomplish over 20% spectral efficiency gains. The company is on course to offer 50% spectral gains by 2027, plus more than 100% by 2028, enabling telecom providers to handle substantially more traffic in dense cells while lowering cost per bit and enhancing the user experience.

Says Founder and CEO of NVIDIA, Jensen Huang, “Telecommunications is entering the AI era — the radio access network is the next AI infrastructure. Together with Nokia, we are bringing NVIDIA CUDA and AI into the baseband, transforming RAN into a planet-scale AI computer. This is a generational shift for operators — unlocking more capacity and efficiency from today’s spectrum while creating the foundation for new AI services and the 6G era.”

A new software subscription model allows telecommunication providers to take advantage of AI innovation, novel features, and performance improvements without the need for hardware refresh cycles. Nokia will commercially launch its AI-RAN solutions in 2027, with trial deployments beginning at the end of 2026, on a roadmap that makes use of NVIDIA’s programmable merchant silicon platforms.

According to Practice Leader, Mobile Infrastructure, Omdia, Rémy Pascal, “Nokia’s AI-RAN launch represents an important step in bringing AI-RAN from industry vision to commercial reality. The addition of the new AI-RAN node alongside the AirScale capacity plug-in unit and cloud-native deployment options gives operators practical choices for adopting AI-native networks based on their existing infrastructure and transformation goals. By combining AI-accelerated computing with a software-defined architecture and a clear product roadmap, Nokia is helping operators unlock greater capacity, improve network economics, and accelerate the transition toward AI-native RAN.”

One AI-native platform and three ways to adopt it

It is well to be noted that the first commercial AI-RAN platform by Nokia is built on a unified software-defined framework driven by Nokia’s anyRAN software and NVIDIA’s accelerated computing, recognizing that telecom providers have different network plans and established RAN bases. It supports 4G and 5G as well as future network evolutions and comes with three hardware platform choices that include an expansion card for standard AirScale deployments and a Cloud RAN option. The platform is completely Open RAN compliant and allows for open and interoperable multi-vendor configurations, giving users the ability to select the hardware and cloud environments that satisfy their needs. These hardware platform choices enable telecommunications companies to modernize at their own pace, while safeguarding current infrastructure investments, taking advantage of common software roadmaps, and speeding up innovation at software speed. Telecommunication providers can roll out AI-RAN in phases, employing the approach that matches their deployment approach, capacity requirements, and installed base.

Extend existing investments

The new GPU-powered AirScale capacity plug-in unit is the most effective way forward for existing Nokia customers. Built for Nokia’s deployed AirScale base, the approach brings accelerated computing power from NVIDIA to current network infrastructure, making possible a major capability leap with an easy upgrade path that preserves standard network investments. The AI-accelerated merchant silicon from Marvell also enables this approach as part of the broader ecosystem approach by Nokia towards software-defined AI-RAN architectures. Telecommunication providers may implement advanced AI capabilities, continually enhance performance with software, and boost the value of deployed infrastructure.

Scale AI-native capability at all time

Nokia has introduced what it says is the industry’s first independent AI-RAN node powered by a GPU for telecom operators who want the greatest possible installation flexibility and superior performance. It offers AI-accelerated RAN performance for every network environment and allows for 4G, 5G, and future 6G workloads on a universal platform. It can be installed as a standalone node, in distributed configurations, or together with AirScale as a single logical base station, offering operators an extremely flexible path to grow AI-native networks while retaining deployment preference.

Developing a cloud-native AI-RAN 

Nokia is launching GPU-powered AI-RAN COTS server solutions with ecosystem partners for telecom providers adopting cloud-native architectures. The platforms facilitate an open and safe supply chain and deployment based on industry-standard rapid computing infrastructure integrating cloud-native flexibility with the efficiency requirements of AI-native radio networks.

Innovation at the speed of the software

AI-RAN by Nokia is a fundamental shift from hardware-driven radio networks to software-defined platforms, where innovations in software and AI are constantly enhancing performance. Through Nokia’s new subscription-based commercial model, telecommunication companies receive continuous availability of cutting-edge artificial intelligence algorithms, spectral efficiency optimization, network optimization capabilities, and future AI-native features, which can be enabled via software. This strategy enables them to leverage ongoing innovation while optimizing long-term infrastructure yields for better TCO as well as performance with no hardware premium. Networks can improve efficiency, performance, resilience, and security on an ongoing basis as new features become readily accessible as opposed to waiting for the next hardware cycle.

With AI-accelerated computing, advanced artificial intelligence algorithms as well as an open ecosystem approach, Nokia is assisting telecommunications companies in gaining access to higher capacities, stronger economics and constant innovation, all while building a solid foundation for future network transformation.

The platform is intended to help telecom operators increase network capacity, improve spectrum efficiency and run AI workloads on existing mobile infrastructure. Nokia and NVIDIA first announced their strategic partnership in late 2025. Pilot deployments are expected to begin by the end of 2026, before commercial availability in 2027.

AI-RAN capabilities and NVIDIA’s role

According to Nokia, the platform represents the industry’s first commercial AI-RAN architecture built for telecom operators. AI-RAN integrates artificial intelligence directly into the radio access network, enabling AI-driven radio optimization, higher spectrum efficiency, dynamic network management and AI inference at the network edge.

Unlike conventional RAN upgrades, AI-RAN allows operators to improve network performance largely through software running on accelerated computing platforms. The AI mobile network gear is designed to support AI-native 5G-Advanced and future 6G services, while also providing software-based performance upgrades.

NVIDIA’s GPUs supply the computing capability required to execute AI models directly within telecom networks. Nokia brings anyRAN software, mobile network expertise, network management and telecom software, while NVIDIA contributes accelerated GPU computing, the AI-RAN platform, AI acceleration and edge AI infrastructure. Together, the companies aim to enable real-time optimization and edge AI applications.

Efficiency targets and operator benefits

Nokia says the platform can substantially improve network efficiency. Reported targets include more than 20% improvement in spectral efficiency demonstrated through AI-driven radio innovations, a target of 50% spectral efficiency gains by 2027, and more than 100% improvement targeted by 2028.

The platform could provide higher network capacity without requiring additional radio spectrum, as well as a lower cost per transmitted bit. Nokia’s AI mobile network gear is also expected to support better utilization of existing infrastructure, reduced capital expenditure, faster software-based upgrades, lower operating costs and new AI-powered services at the network edge.

A software subscription model would allow operators to receive continuous AI enhancements without frequent hardware refreshes. These capabilities are intended to help operators respond to rapidly growing demand for AI services and mobile data while supporting a smoother transition toward 6G.

Industry implications and deployment challenges

AI-RAN is emerging as a major telecommunications trend, reflecting the convergence of AI and telecom infrastructure, greater use of GPU-accelerated networks, expansion of edge computing and smarter network automation. Several telecom operators have already begun evaluating AI-RAN technologies through pilot programs.

Large-scale deployment nevertheless faces high GPU infrastructure costs, integration with existing networks, increased energy consumption, the skills required to manage AI-native networks and return on investment for operators. Commercial adoption will depend on successful pilot deployments and demonstrated cost savings.

By embedding artificial intelligence directly into radio networks, Nokia’s AI mobile network gear could improve capacity, automate network optimization and support emerging AI applications without relying solely on expensive hardware upgrades.

The move aims to aggressively build up local AI computing facilities at a time when there is enormous demand for AI model training and inference, and high-performance computing systems is essential for national competitiveness.

It is well to be noted that SKT is taking charge of the project by connecting it with the government’s AI G3 strategy with the objective of becoming one of the three top AI powers in the world along with the U.S. and China and the mission of balancing regional growth. It is analyzing thoroughly core infrastructure components like power and siting as well as operations for the AI data center.

Ulsan AI Data Center to be scaled up to GW Scale – 5GW to be activated in stages from 2029 for a total of 15GW

A standard AI data center of 1GW class might need a significant project cost of roughly 70 trillion Korean won because of the construction of high-performance AI computing infrastructure as well as skyrocketing memory prices.

Such costs are anticipated to be borne by the company’s own investment, strategic partner investment, and long-term customer contracts, as well as project financing of the company.

The context for SKT’s decision to construct an AI data center of this magnitude is a worldwide shortage of supply. Global demand when it comes to data centers will grow 19–22% each year, and supply is unlikely to keep up.

As per McKinsey & Company, the global consulting firm, the U.S. alone will encounter a projected shortage of approximately 15GW by the end of the decade.

Therefore, global big tech companies are raising investment in data centers far away from the U.S. to places around the world. In this regard, Korea has attracted the interest of global big tech companies as a potential investment location for AI data centers.

The fact is that Korea remains highly competitive when it comes to core AI components like high-bandwidth memory – HBM. Moreover, the steady power supply conditions centered around nuclear power as well as liquefied natural gas – LNG and the GW-class infrastructure operation resources gained by means of operating semiconductor fabs serve as an attractive site for AI data center and the aim of becoming an AI infrastructure hub in Asia by SK telecom is indeed not a long shot.

Demand is high, location is favorable, and SKT intends to build 15 GW of AI data center capacity.

First, commencing with the AI data center being constructed in Ulsan, SKT will establish a cluster of over 2 GW in the southeastern region – Gyeongsang and utilize it as a basis to draw demand for AI infrastructure coming from global big tech companies to Korea.

It also looks forward to another 1 GW in the southwestern region at Jeolla so that its AI data centers, established in 2029 and beyond, will have 5 GW of overall domestic capacity.

SKT will take into account multiple variables, including site selection and power supply as well as securing essential anchor tenants in tandem in accordance with the balanced regional development tasks and strategic supply plans of the government so as to pursue AI data center construction.

SK Group has comprehensive AI infrastructure capabilities with SKT to take overall project leadership as AI Infrastructure Architect

The three main foundations of AI data center infrastructure are semiconductors, energy solutions as well as data center construction and operation capabilities. SK Group demonstrates these core capabilities across all of its affiliates. This project will put together the group’s complete AI infrastructure, taking advantage of the capabilities of every affiliate.

Particularly, SKT will take the crucial position of overseeing the design, construction, and operation of the AI data centers. SKT had already been active in the AI data center business and proceeded to collaborate with global big tech companies.

In November 2025, SKT President and CEO Jung Jai-hun at the SK AI Summit 2025 laid out the AI infrastructure roadmap of the company, declaring that SKT would spearhead the evolution of AI infrastructure as the top AI operator in the nation. He additionally laid out a long-term plan to strengthen cooperation with global big tech companies and to boost the size of the Ulsan AI Data Center to a total exceeding 1GW.

Recently, SKT announced plans for an AI Factory, which it defined as a next-generation AI data center. SKT plans to open the AI Factory in 2027 and increase its capacity to GW scale in the future.

Third National Infrastructure Revolution of Korea after Gyeongbu Motorway, High-Speed Internet

It is worth noting that the AI industry anticipates AI data centers becoming not just a new growth engine for Korea but also a national strategic resource. More specifically, it is likely that connecting AI data centers to regional industries is going to contribute toward balanced regional development.

The construction is anticipated to act as a catalyst for Korea to develop into an AI infrastructure hub with the 15GW-scale AI data center. SKT considers AI data centers the third innovative infrastructure in Korea after the Gyeongbu Motorway – 1968 and high-speed internet – 1998 and plans to guide its development.

According to the President and CEO of SKT, Jung Jai-hun, “This AI data center project is aimed at preemptively preparing the computing infrastructure that the global AI ecosystem needs. We will work closely with the government, industry, and local communities to help Korea grow into Asia’s core AI infrastructure hub.”

This milestone comes after a stringent and extremely competitive tender process for the current MTN network, which was overseen by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology – MCOT of the country and included meticulous technical and financial assessments, and in which Zain won the contract with the most competitive and fully compliant bid submitted for a total amount of USD 747 million.

Zain will create a new operational entity in Syria in which the group will own 75% and a Syrian government entity will own 25%. The Zain Syria brand is scheduled for commercial launch in Q1 2027, contingent upon the fulfillment of all legal and license requirements.

The Zain team is going to closely work together with the Syrian MCOT and the MTN team in order to support the enhancement and consistency of services to the existing 6.3 million customer base throughout a 6-month transition handover time frame.

The license to operate mobile telecom network in Syria marks the entry of Zain as the second operator in one of the most promising markets of the Levant, supported by a young demographic and growing demand for superior mobile and data services for individuals and companies considering the improving economic and social scenarios.

As part of the award, the Zain Syria entity will allocate more than USD 800 million to broaden and modernize the system with a 5G network and additional AI-powered digital technologies in the next 10 years. The financial resources resulting from the Syrian operation will contribute to this. The technical, investment, and operational expertise of the Zain Group will support efficient allocation of capital, accelerate network creation, and boost service performance and quality.

According to Bader Al-Kharafi, vice chairman & group CEO of Zain, “We extend our sincere appreciation to the government of the Syrian Arab Republic and H.E. Abdulsalam Haykal, minister of communications and information technology, and his team for conducting a transparent, professional, and rigorous tender process. Their confidence in Zain is a responsibility we embrace with the highest level of commitment. The Zain Group Board and executive management are fully committed to building a modern, reliable network that supports Syria’s digital transformation and delivers high‑quality telecom and digital services to the Syrian community. Guided by the directives and wise vision of H.H. The Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, we reaffirm our firm belief in the importance of strengthening Arab cooperation and advancing development and investment initiatives that foster stability and prosperity across the region while reinforcing the foundations of sustainable development for generations to come. I was honored to meet with the president of Syria, H.E. Ahmed Al-Sharaa, during which I emphasized that Zain’s entry into the Syrian market represents more than a strategic business expansion; it reflects our deep confidence in Syria’s future, the capabilities of its people, and its development ambitions.”

“I also conveyed Zain Group’s commitment to being a true partner in supporting Syria’s digital transformation and economic growth through investing in local talent, advancing digital infrastructure, and supporting SMEs and government entities through advanced AI-powered digital solutions that will serve generations to come. We are confident in Syria’s economic recovery and long-term prospects. Zain’s entry into the market, alongside the operation’s committed CAPEX investment over the coming decade, reflects this confidence. This expansion strengthens our presence in the Levant, reinforces longstanding Kuwaiti Syrian ties, and enhances regional connectivity by enabling cross-border digital services that leverage Zain’s regional footprint and technological capabilities. Guided by our ‘4WARD‑Progress with Purpose’ corporate strategy and our purpose of creating ‘Better Lives and Lasting Connections’, we look forward to welcoming the people of Syria into Zain’s Wonderful World and becoming a trusted partner in the country’s digital transformation and socio‑economic progress.”

“Established Zain entities such as ZainTECH, Zain Omantel International (ZOI), our fintech platforms, and other digital businesses will extend their services to the country. In parallel, financial support and innovation-driven initiatives will be implemented to foster the Syrian entrepreneurial startup ecosystem. This approach underscores Zain’s commitment to creating long-term value that extends beyond telecom and contributes meaningfully to the country’s digital development. Established Zain entities such as ZainTECH, Zain Omantel International (ZOI), our fintech platforms, and other digital businesses will extend their services to the country. In parallel, financial support and innovation-driven initiatives will be implemented to foster the Syrian entrepreneurial startup ecosystem. This approach underscores Zain’s commitment to creating long-term value that extends beyond telecom and contributes meaningfully to the country’s digital development. We are confident that this expansion will enhance shareholder value through an expanded customer base and increased revenues, driven by synergies with neighboring markets, while reinforcing Zain’s position as a leading regional TechCo on the global stage.”

During the six months of the transition, the Zain Syrian business will carry out a full network upgrade program while ensuring a continuous level of service for about 6.3 million existing users. 5G deployments, upgrades to infrastructure, and AI-powered solutions will be major features of the deployment. The first phases will focus on over 98% of the population.

Zain will take advantage of its operational technical expertise and systematic investment procedures developed in new and intricate market conditions to guarantee high service accessibility and a superior client experience for Syrian customers, companies, and SMEs as well as government entities.

Once officially launched, Zain Syria is going to provide a wide range of voice, data, digital, and content-based entertainment offerings for families, youth, and enterprises as well as public sector organizations. Customers will gain advantages from collaborations with Zain Group’s popular products, localized and digital offerings, and new services created specifically for the Syrian market.

Notably, Zain has 51.2 million customers and is active in 8 markets in the Middle East and Africa. Zain will further broaden its footprint to Syria, reinforcing its standing as a leading regional TechCo and supporting its 4WARD-Progress with Purpose approach to speed up the business through its expansion into high-potential neighboring markets. The group will provide 5G services across Kuwait, KSA, and Bahrain as well as Jordan with a dominant regional 5G position alongside the launch of Zain Syria.

The AI-integrated 5G Network digital twin solution aims to assist communications service providers in upgrading their network processes, enhance service quality, and boost the commercialization of next-generation 5G connectivity.

It is well to be noted that the solution combines Microsoft Azure and Microsoft Fabric as well as Azure Digital Twin services so as to consolidate high-volume network telemetry information into a real-time, AI-ready data estate that can be used for sophisticated simulation as well as predictive modeling. The platform integrates Microsoft Foundry and Fabric IQ along with agentic AI frameworks to enable intelligent rational thought, self-sufficient decision-making, and tightly coupled coordination throughout network operations. It is targeted at large and medium-sized telecom operators who operate in complex, multiple-vendor networks and want to gain higher levels of operational flexibility and tangible business results. The approach will additionally allow telecom providers to expedite revenue generation of enterprise-focused services with SLA-driven offerings, like network slicing and edge orchestration, having upgraded service assurance and risk forecasting functionality.

As per Chief Transformation Officer, Tech Mahindra, Amol Phadke, “As telecom networks evolve to support increasingly sophisticated services and enterprise use cases, operators are under pressure to manage growing operational complexity while unlocking new sources of value from their infrastructure. Many continue to face challenges arising from reactive operational models, rising costs, and limited visibility into service performance, which can hinder scalability and the monetization of advanced 5G capabilities. Through our integration with Microsoft, we are combining digital twin technology, unified data intelligence, and agentic AI to help operators move toward autonomous network operations, improve service assurance, and create new opportunities for revenue growth through AI-driven network innovation.”

This solution will enable telecom operators to move from conventional network modeling techniques to digital twins at cloud scale, which integrate real-time telemetry and semantic intelligence, as well as AI-driven automation. The solution blends simulation and unified data management along with AI-powered operational intelligence to push digital twins to a new level, converting them from a visual layer into an interactive decision-making platform that is capable of delivering tangible business results in live network settings. The solution additionally allows data-led decision-making throughout the network lifespan to help maximize investments in infrastructure, optimize asset utilization, and improve governance standards while at the same time lowering operational costs.

According to Senior Global Director, Strategy, Microsoft, Alessandra Antonelli, “Tech Mahindra’s AI-powered 5G network digital twins bring real-time intelligence to even the most complex network environments. By combining Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Foundry, and Microsoft Fabric with Tech Mahindra’s deep telco expertise, operators can move from passive monitoring to active, intelligent decisioning, with agentic AI that reasons, simulates, and acts across live network environments in real time.”

The combination further reinforces the ability of Tech Mahindra to supply unique AI-led telecom solutions leveraging advanced cloud, data, and AI services from Microsoft. Further engagement with customers, co-go-to-market, and rapid development are also enabled. Customers will profit from the integration by gaining access to a secure, unified technology ecosystem that can accelerate the implementation of solutions that are scalable along with being operationally efficient and service quality-driven with business value creation.

The satellite internet provider, owned by SpaceX from Elon Musk, has been rapidly expanding its offerings across Africa, providing rapid connectivity that does away with traditional terrestrial fibre as well as mobile network infrastructure. Its expanding footprint has already begun challenging traditional mobile network operators – MNOs along with fixed-line providers, especially in underdeveloped and rural regions where connectivity has traditionally been limited.

Now regulators across the continent are evaluating their structures in order to take into account new players like Starlink. They are also grappling with issues of equal competition, spectrum distribution, and regional content standards.

The regulatory environment is still developing, and how quickly Starlink and comparable satellite-based services can function as full-scale telecom operators will depend on that.

Industry analysts say that the pricing strategy from Starlink and the reliability of its service may significantly alter market dynamics. The company could also use competitive pricing along with uniform service quality to apply pressure on conventional operators to enhance their services and in turn potentially reduce expenses for consumers and boost innovation across competitors.

The stakes are getting higher for telecom operators of Africa. With Starlink approaching fully licensed telecom operator status, the race for customers, especially in rural and remote areas, is bound to get fiercer. The move also poses questions about the long-term market share as well as the future of conventional mobile along with fixed-line services throughout the region.

The trend is part of a larger worldwide shift, with satellite-based internet providers fighting off the supremacy of traditional telecom operators. In Africa, where the digital divide remains a huge challenge, the rise of Starlink could bring possibilities as well as obstacles – closing the digital gap while raising competition in an increasingly crowded market.

Organized by VAP Group and powered by the Times of Games, the event will present the latest technologies through AR/VR live demonstrations, immersive experiences in the world of gaming, panels on the evolution of gaming, game publisher and developer trends, and the future of eSports. Visitors get information about new gaming technologies and monetization models, including ways to engage players.

In addition to linking all of the different aspects in the gaming ecosystem, the Global Games Show heavily focuses on networking since many designated networking areas are used for various types of matchmaking to connect developers, game publishers, and game investors. Start-up game developers will have an opportunity to demonstrate their cutting-edge innovations, and established video game developers will showcase how technology is changing storytelling, graphics, and gameplay.

The Global Games Show has previously hosted some of the most influential names shaping the future of gaming, esports, and Web3. Esteemed speakers have included Johnson Yeh, Founder and CEO of ROEHL/Ambrus Studio; Yat Siu, Co-Founder and Chairman of Animoca Brands; Dirk Lueth, Ph.D., Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Uplandme, Inc.; and Paul Dawalibi, CEO of Holodeck Ventures. Industry innovators such as Ilman Shazhaev, Founder of Farcana, and Klaus Kajetski, Founder and CEO of YaLLa Esports, have also shared their insights, alongside Jonathan Bouzanquet, Chief Strategy Officer and Founder of PLAYA3ULL Games, and Assad Dar, Co-Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Medieval Empires. Combined, these leaders are infusing the room with views on the convergence of gaming, blockchain, esports, and immersive digital economies. It fosters an environment where ideas thrive and connections take shape, and learning can pass from one industry to another.

“We have two dynamic days of cooperation and innovation in the heart of the industry at Saudi gaming capital,” the Global Games Show Riyadh.

Day One will explore gaming tech’s next frontier, Saudi Arabia’s rise to become an esports juggernaut, groundbreaking innovations in gaming engines, and futuristic breakthroughs such as brain-computer interfaces and AI-assisted game design. Day Two dives into gameconomics, examining the business of gaming, from crowdfunding options to mobile and community empowerment and investor-developer partnerships. Expect visionary talks, engaging discussions, and vibrant networking moments, culminating in the gathering of world-renowned creators, developers, and gamers shaping the future of interactive entertainment across both days.

The Global Games Show 2026 Riyadh takes the city a step further in establishing that new hub for digital entertainment and interactive technology to move beyond mere production. A unique point to appreciate about this event is that one ticket also allows access to other events, including the Global AI Show and the Global Blockchain Show. Grab this unique opportunity to explore, learn, and connect.