An article by the World Bank highlights the digital transformation strategy of governments in the MENA region in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the steps taken consist of improving broadband networks and enhanced Internet services; payment flexibility for prepaid users, allowing them to pay after consumption; and increased bandwidth of Internet packages and speeds for users without additional costs. E-learning platforms have been developed in many countries of the region, such as in Saudi Arabia, where the national education portal 'Ain' has become the main education channel for more than six million users.

The article goes on to provide an overview of priority actions in the short, medium, and long term to help eliminate obstacles to private sector investment and facilitate the entry of new operators into the telecommunications market. Among other recommendations, the actions include: encouraging competition, reducing licensing fees, and sharing revenue.