As Iraq accelerates its digital transformation, Zain Iraq positions itself as a key driver by modernizing networks for 5G readiness, expanding fiber, and partnering with global tech leaders like Ericsson, Nokia, and Huawei. CEO Emre Gurkan outlines the company’s focus on innovation, inclusion, and public-private collaboration shaping a digitally empowered Iraq.
Zain Iraq’s ecosystem companies offer ICT services, cloud, data centers, cybersecurity, and distribution, complementing government efforts to build a digitally inclusive future. A major focus is youth empowerment through the Zain Youth program, offering coding bootcamps, innovation labs, and entrepreneurship competitions with partners like The Station and Google Developers, aiming to prepare Iraq’s youth for tech careers.
Innovation drives tailored telecom products like the Kafoo plan and supports smart cities, SMEs, and customer-centric platforms ensuring digital inclusion across sectors including education and healthcare. Zain Iraq fosters entrepreneurship via incubation programs, co-working spaces, and mentorship, collaborating on events like ITEX Iraq and the Baghdad International Fair.
Public-private partnerships underpin Zain’s 5G strategy, working closely with regulators and global tech firms to prepare for nationwide 5G deployment, unlocking value in healthcare, education, and fintech. The company is also nurturing Iraq’s burgeoning eSports scene through sponsorships, local tournaments, and dedicated platforms, with over 50 activations in 2024 alone to promote Iraqi talent regionally and globally.
