ME to pass 50% mobile penetration rate

The Middle East is set to pass the 50% mobile penetration rate in the second quarter of 2007, according to Wireless Intelligence.

The mobile penetration rate in the region currently hovers just below the 50% mark.

The region is the second-fastest growing in the world behind Africa in terms of mobile penetration, the research firm said, growing 30% in 2006 and expected to grow a further 25% this year.

Saudi Arabia currently represents around 15% of total connections in the region, but with a penetration rate of around 80% still has room for growth, according to the firm.

In terms of growth, Iran is one of the fastest growing markets in the region, the firm noted.