Where is Bahrain in 5G race?

Closer than you think is the answer. “Preparations are complete,” said Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications in Bahrain, Kamal Ahmed last month pointing out the availability of handset as the only hurdle. As you read, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) here is finalising the licensing and spectrum allocation procedures for the country’s 5G radio network. Most probably, starting June, Bahrainis would officially start enjoying the perks of super fast communication.

All licensed operators here have begun rolling out the infrastructure required to support commercial 5G services. “There were a lot of challenges along the way – ensuring spectrum availability as soon as possible was a big challenge, but overcoming these obstacles exemplifies the support and cooperation amongst Team Bahrain and demonstrates how Bahrain can move quickly, deliver enormous progress against an accelerated timeframe, and be a partner to technology leaders,” said the Minister.

Batelco has selected Ericsson to launch 5G, while VIVA Bahrain has partnered with Huawei that has registered 1,529 5G patents, according to data analysis firm IPlytics.