The Ericsson Mobility Report released this month reveals continued global momentum for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and 5G, with FWA expected to account for over 35% of new fixed broadband connections and reach 350 million connections by 2030. As 5G capabilities evolve, FWA emerges as a powerful alternative to wired infrastructure—particularly in underserved regions—offering service providers the flexibility to roll out high-speed broadband where cables can’t reach.
The report forecasts 5G subscriptions will reach 2.9 billion globally by end of 2025, representing around a third of all mobile subscriptions. That figure is projected to hit 6.3 billion by 2030, with 5G networks carrying more than 80% of global mobile data traffic by then—up from 35% at the end of 2024.
In the Gulf region, where digital transformation is progressing rapidly, Ericsson expects 90% of all mobile subscriptions to be 5G-based by 2030. Mobile subscriptions in GCC nations are forecast to grow 3% annually, reaching 95 million by the decade’s end. The region’s advanced digital agenda and high urbanization levels are further driving demand for FWA, as governments pursue smart city initiatives and seek to bridge remaining digital divides.
Petra Schirren, President of Ericsson Gulf, emphasized:
“Service providers in the Gulf are evolving into TechCos, leveraging AI, cloud computing, and edge solutions. Fixed Wireless Access is a key enabler of smarter, more connected urban environments across the region.”
The report also explores monetization opportunities from 5G Standalone (SA) and 5G Advanced, including network slicing and open APIs that support tailored services for enterprise, government, and media sectors. Highlighted use cases include live broadcasting, point-of-sale systems, gaming, VPNs, and arena connectivity.
Additional insights include a co-authored study with Sony, outlining how dynamic slicing and Quality on Demand (QoD) APIs can enhance live media production over mobile networks. Another segment explores how generative AI (GenAI) may affect future mobile data traffic, noting only high-adoption, high-bandwidth applications will significantly impact overall traffic volumes.
The June 2025 Ericsson Mobility Report positions 5G and FWA not only as connectivity enablers but as core pillars of digital transformation, redefining user experience and network value across sectors.
