Image: Supplied
As Iraq accelerates its digital transformation, Zain Iraq is emerging as a key architect of this new future. From pioneering 5G readiness and network modernization to investing in youth empowerment, tech entrepreneurship, and eSports, the telecom giant is leveraging its capabilities and partnerships to redefine connectivity and innovation in the country.
In this exclusive interview, Emre Gurkan, CEO of Zain Iraq, outlines the company’s strategic roadmap, the role of innovation and inclusion, and how public-private collaboration is shaping a digitally empowered Iraq.
Iraq’s digital transformation is gaining momentum. How is Zain Iraq driving this journey forward?
Iraq’s digital transformation presents significant opportunities, and at Zain Iraq, we are committed to playing a pivotal role in its advancement. We are investing in network modernisation, with a focus on 5G readiness and expanded fiber deployment. Additionally, we are forging partnerships with global technology leaders like Ericsson, Nokia, and Huawei to bring advanced solutions to Iraq.
Beyond connectivity, our ecosystem companies such as Horizon Scope and Next Generation are delivering ICT services, cloud and data center solutions, cybersecurity, and distribution. These efforts, combined with government collaboration, are reshaping Iraq’s telecom experience and enabling a digitally inclusive future.
What challenges does Iraq’s digital ecosystem face, and how is Zain Iraq addressing them?
Zain Iraq plays a strategic role in Iraq’s public-private partnership framework. We leverage regional expertise and our ecosystem of sister companies to bridge infrastructure gaps and support the digital economy. We also advocate for forward-looking policies and introduce digital tools that benefit sectors like education and healthcare.
A major priority is youth skills development. Through our Zain Youth programme and partnerships with organisations like The Station, we offer mentorship, digital literacy training, and innovation platforms to prepare young Iraqis for future careers in tech.
Tell us what initiatives you have launched to empower youth and foster innovation?
Iraqi youth are at the heart of our transformation strategy. Under our Zain Youth program, we have launched coding bootcamps, innovation labs, and entrepreneurship competitions in partnership with The Station, Google Developers, and others. We also support digital literacy initiatives in schools and universities to build a more inclusive, future-ready society.
How is Zain Iraq using innovation to ensure digital inclusion across sectors?
Innovation is embedded in everything we do. Whether it’s data analytics for public service improvement or tailored telecom products like the Kafoo plan, our approach is to adapt global tech to local needs. We are enabling smart cities, supporting SMEs, and delivering customer-centric platforms to ensure no one is left behind in Iraq’s digital journey.
How is the company supporting Iraq’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem?
We are deeply invested in fostering tech entrepreneurship. Zain Iraq supports incubation programs, co-working spaces, and mentorship platforms in partnership with educational institutions and government bodies. We also back events like ITEX Iraq and the Baghdad International Fair, in collaboration with Horizon Scope.
Additionally, our tailored connectivity and cloud solutions help startups scale their operations, with the goal of expanding their reach regionally and globally.
How is Zain Iraq collaborating with the government and global tech firms to support 5G and broader digital expansion?
Public-private collaboration is central to our strategy. We work with regulators to shape digital policy and partner with global tech leaders such as Huawei, Nokia, and Ericsson. We are technically ready to launch 5G services across all Iraqi governorates and are focused on initiatives that unlock digital value across sectors like healthcare, education, and fintech.
With eSports on the rise in Iraq, how is the company nurturing this space?
eSports is one of Iraq’s fastest-growing sectors, and we are supporting it with low-latency connectivity, local tournament sponsorships, and dedicated gaming platforms. Through our Zain eSports arm, we are bringing Iraqi talent to regional and global platforms.
In 2024 alone, Zain eSports held 50 activations across our operations, reflecting our commitment to building a vibrant gaming ecosystem.
