Key Insights Ahead of Capacity Middle East 2026: AI, Cable Resilience, and Iraq’s Digital Future

The telecommunications industry is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events of the year, Capacity Middle East 2026, which is set to take place from February 10-12 in Dubai. This year’s conference promises a packed agenda, tackling critical issues such as the Middle East’s role in shaping artificial intelligence (AI) advancements and the telecom sector’s recovery from the significant February Red Sea cable disruptions. Capacity Middle East is known for being a hub for industry leaders to exchange insights and explore collaborative opportunities, but this year, the region’s focus on AI-driven infrastructure and undersea cable innovation makes it an event not to miss.

Iraq Connect: Driving Digital Transformation in Iraq

In conjunction with Capacity Middle East 2026, the event will feature a special one-day program on February 9—Iraq Connect. As Iraq emerges as a key player in the region’s digital transformation, this program aims to bring together digital infrastructure executives, government officials, and investors to lay the foundation for the nation’s digital future. Iraq’s telecom market, valued at around $2.5 billion in 2024, is anticipated to experience robust growth, powered by increasing smartphone adoption and internet penetration.

Located at the crossroads of the Middle East and Europe, Iraq is uniquely positioned to develop low-latency terrestrial connectivity routes that bypass the traditional reliance on undersea cables in the Red Sea. This strategic position could redefine connectivity between Asia and Europe, offering new opportunities for innovation and investment. Attendees of Iraq Connect will have the chance to explore topics critical to developing these alternative routes, which could significantly enhance global network resilience.

The Growing Role of Undersea Cables in Regional Connectivity

Undersea cables remain an essential part of global communications, and the Middle East continues to position itself as a key player in this domain. With several new intercontinental cable systems, such as SEAMEWE 6, slated for completion in the upcoming year, the conference will dedicate significant discussion to these developments. SEAMEWE 6, an ambitious project connecting Europe and Asia, is just one example of the ways global connectivity is evolving.

Rob Schult, Research Director at TeleGeography, will convene a panel to provide expert analysis of these new cable systems, while Senior Research Manager Paul Brodsky will present an in-depth overview of the regional cable market. Brodsky’s presentation is particularly anticipated, as the insights he has shared in previous years have become vital resources for industry professionals working on cable resilience and data traffic optimization. If you’re planning to attend, pre-conference materials and past year content presented by Paul Brodsky could prove invaluable for an informed conference experience.

Why Capacity Middle East 2026 Matters

Capacity Middle East not only sets the tempo for telecom innovation and collaboration but also reflects the region’s growing significance in global connectivity strategies. The conference’s spotlight on topics like AI integration into regional infrastructure, Iraq’s digital transformation, and the advancement of undersea cables highlights its pivotal role in shaping the future of telecommunications. This year, the event is expected to attract key stakeholders from across the globe who are eager to explore emerging opportunities in the Middle East’s rapidly advancing telecom landscape.

As the industry prepares for another transformative year, attendance at Capacity Middle East 2026 offers participants the chance to walk away with actionable insights and new connections. Don’t miss the limited-time registration incentives for TeleGeography readers, and use the code TELEGEOGRAPHY10 to save on admission. Mark your calendars, and get ready to dive into the discussions driving the next wave of telecom innovation.