The IoT Regulatory Framework in the Arab Republic of Egypt

January 2022

View the original document

Strategies and Action Plans

Author: National Telecom Regulatory Authority

The IoT Regulatory Framework in the Arab Republic of Egypt, issued by the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA) in January 2022, provides a comprehensive structure for managing the development, deployment, and licensing of internet of things (IoT) services and technologies across the country. The framework is grounded in Law No. 10 of 2003 on Telecommunication Regulation and supports Egypt Vision 2030, with a focus on enabling smart city infrastructure and secure digital services.

Scope and operational model

The framework defines a layered operational model involving:

IoT Network Operators (entities licensed to build and run networks),
IoT Service Providers (entities providing services to users),
and End-Users (individuals or entities consuming services).

Additional actors may include platform developers, hardware suppliers, and application providers. The model distinguishes between mobile operators, satellite operators, and non-cellular LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network) providers.

Regulatory model and licensing structure

The regulatory model is divided into several license categories:

Annex to Mobile Service Provider License: Allows mobile operators to offer IoT services using mobile networks (e.g., NB-IoT, LTE-M) and to deploy non-cellular LPWAN.
License for Non-Cellular LPWAN: Available to non-mobile operators for providing connectivity and IoT services over LPWAN frequencies (863–870 MHz). These licensees are obligated to adhere to specific technical standards and must allow non-discriminatory access to their networks.
Satellite IoT License: Grants satellite operators the ability to provide connectivity (not direct services) using their satellite networks. Services must be routed through licensed IoT service providers within Egypt.
IoT Service Provider License: Required for any entity offering IoT services to third parties. Providers must comply with international standards, ensure data protection, submit to performance monitoring, and seek prior approval when serving government clients or using satellite services.
Private Networks: Companies and government entities may build non-commercial private IoT networks under strict conditions, including bans on external connectivity unless approved by NTRA.

Licensing terms and obligations

All licensees must be Egyptian corporations with demonstrated technical and financial capability. The framework outlines:

License durations (e.g., 10 years for LPWAN, 5 years for service provision),
Upfront and annual fees (based on revenue, network usage, and administrative overhead),
Obligations such as network availability, non-discrimination, cybersecurity reporting, user privacy, and compliance with national security regulations.

Service providers are also required to:

Submit detailed technical and operational proposals,
Maintain databases for terminal devices and users,
Adhere to customer service standards,
Obtain NTRA approval for tariffs and contracts,
Avoid transmitting IoT data or traffic outside Egypt without prior consent.

Device and technology regulation

All IoT devices used must be certified by NTRA and must support security features such as password control and reset functions. Rules are provided for both wireless and wired connectivity methods, including: