Mobile Use in Muslim Countries up 70%

Mobile usage in Arab nations jumped by 70% in 2005, according to Dubai-based Madar Research. Madar puts the rise down to increased competition and the fact that mobile tariffs are becoming more attractive and competitive with landline calling rates.

Current statistics put penetration in these countries at 28%, which is respectable when considering the average per capita income and geography of the region. North Africa grew the fastest within the collection of Muslim countries, with penetration rising by 83% year-on-year. Morocco now has 10 mobile lines for every one landline, according to Madar.