Dreaming in 4G

While most industries are still struggling to re-find their momentum in a slow economy, the Egyptian telecom industry is maintaining a positive outlook. There are many reasons for the optimism; new technology continues to make its way into the Egyptian market, while an insatiable demand for data is being fueled by growing internet use, particularly on mobile devices.

After remaining resilient throughout the economic downturn, the telecommunications industry is set to get a boost from several key developments. In particular, says Sameh Atalla, CEO of Mobiserve, the arrival of 4G technology is not far off, and will meet the growing demand for data.

Atalla’s insight into the direction of the industry is based on his experience at the helm of Mobiserve since its inception in 1999, the time when cell phones first started appearing in Egyptians’ hands. Since then Mobiserve, a subsidiary of Mobiserve Holding, has been largely responsible for building the physical infrastructure of Egypt’s three telecom service providers.

Atalla launched his career holding an undergraduate degree in telecom and electrical engineering and an MBA in corporate finance and management. He went on to gain extensive and varied experience during the course of 10 years working abroad in Scotland, Thailand, and closer to home in Syria, Jordan, Oman, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. In 1999, Atalla returned to his native country prepared to help lead Egypt into the telecommunications era.