Qatar has emerged as the second in the Middle East for median download speeds, clocking in at 68.63Mbps for 4G and a remarkable 462.96Mbps for 5G networks. These speeds indicate that Qatar provides mobile users with the necessary bandwidth to enjoy an uninterrupted gaming experience, particularly for data-intensive multiplayer games.
The report highlights Qatar’s impressive standing in terms of median download speeds for both 4G and 5G networks, as well as its strong position in mobile gaming, reflecting the nation’s commitment to superior telecom infrastructure.
Notably, Qatar also attained the third-highest game score in the Middle East, an impressive 82.81 out of 100, on a scale that evaluates the overall gaming experience. Ookla noted that this achievement directly correlates with the exceptional mobile network performance in the Qatari market, enhancing the gaming experience for its residents.
The report further highlights that 5G networks outperformed 4G in terms of game scores across all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, confirming the advantages of 5G technology in gaming. The larger bandwidth and reduced latency offered by 5G contribute to smoother and more responsive gameplay. On average, game scores on 4G networks lagged behind 5G by percentages ranging from 5.37 percent in Oman to 8.26 percent in Saudi Arabia.
Ookla’s report also provides recommendations for further enhancing the gaming experience in the region. It suggests that GCC operators can continue to improve by investing in 5G infrastructure, encouraging more customers to migrate to 5G, and establishing local gaming servers. These measures are seen as crucial for the region, given its large youth demographic, a burgeoning casual gaming community, widespread smartphone adoption, and high-speed Internet access.
Download speed is identified as a vital factor in ensuring a seamless gaming experience, especially for downloading games and updates. Ookla recommends that mobile operators in the GCC focus on delivering high download speeds to cater to the demands of gamers. The report assumes that 25Mbps is the minimum download speed required for casual gamers to enjoy a good gaming experience, and the data shows that GCC markets comfortably exceed this requirement on 4G while significantly surpassing it on 5G.
In addition to download speeds, upload speed also plays a crucial role in multiplayer gaming, and GCC markets excel in this regard. Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE are noted for offering the fastest upload speeds, reaching a maximum of 38.48Mbps.
The report concludes by highlighting the untapped potential of the gaming market in the GCC region, which can experience tremendous growth with continued investments in robust telecom infrastructure. The investments made by Gulf operators in 5G infrastructure have not only improved their Game Score rankings but have also demonstrated their dedication to fostering the gaming industry. Ookla suggests that the region can further minimise latency and enhance the gaming experience by deploying local gaming servers, edge computing infrastructure, and 5G SA technology, positioning it to lead in game development and nurture a thriving local gaming ecosystem.
