The Syrian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology announced an international tender for a new mobile network operator license valid for 20 years, as part of broader efforts to restructure the telecommunications sector. Communications Minister Abdulsalam Haykal unveiled the initiative during his participation in the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, describing it as a milestone in the sector’s reform program.
Attracting International Investment
Haykal said the new licensing framework prioritizes service quality and is designed in line with international standards to attract major investors. He emphasized accountability mechanisms to ensure improved coverage and performance nationwide.
The license will replace that of MTN Syria while maintaining a two-operator market structure for five years to guarantee service continuity. The winning bidder will operate an existing revenue-generating network, including subscribers and infrastructure, while also committing to long-term investment in next-generation technologies.
Spectrum and Ownership Structure
The 20-year license includes access to spectrum in the 800 MHz, 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands, enabling deployment of advanced mobile broadband and 5G services. Officials said the 800 MHz band, valuable for rural and indoor coverage, will be allocated entirely to the new operator.
The roadmap also incorporates the 6 GHz band, positioning the network for future 5.5G and 6G technologies. Under the plan, the Syrian Sovereign Fund will hold a 25% stake in the new company, with the remaining shares owned by the selected operator and its partners.
Regional Expansion and Phasing Out Legacy Networks
The ministry outlined a phased plan to shut down second and third-generation networks, reallocating spectrum to 4G and 5G services to deliver faster and more reliable connectivity. The tender process includes pre-qualification and financial evaluation stages. The deadline for final submissions is May 2, 2026. Existing Syrian mobile operators are excluded from bidding, opening the market to new international entrants.
The project is closely tied to the SilkLink regional fiber initiative supported by Saudi Telecom Company (STC), aimed at expanding international transmission capacity and strengthening Syria’s role as a regional digital corridor.
The ministry described telecommunications modernization as a central pillar of economic recovery, noting that the license requirements include national coverage obligations, universal access commitments and performance standards aligned with international specifications. Officials say the new mobile license and the SilkLink initiative together form the backbone of Syria’s long-term digital infrastructure strategy.
