ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has finalised its preparations for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction, set to take place on February 26, 2026.
Reports said the auction design is complete, with detailed plans in place for network, technology, quality of service, and rollout strategy.
The auction is expected to be the largest telecom auction in Pakistan’s history, with approximately 600 MHz of spectrum up for bidding. The government anticipates generating at least $630 million in tax-free revenue from the auction.
Once the auction concludes, successful telecom operators will be granted a 15-year technology-neutral license. The rollout of 5G services will take place in phases, with an initial requirement for a minimum download speed of 50 Mbps in the first phase.
In addition to 5G, telecom operators will also be required to enhance the quality of 4G networks, with a mandate to improve speed and service quality by at least four to five times. This move addresses the longstanding issue of quality of service in the country.
Initial 5G Service Locations
Reports said the 5G telecom service will initially be launched in major cities and selected commercial areas, where 5G devices are more widely available.
Key areas in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and other provincial capitals are set to receive 5G service in the first phase.
During the first year, telecom operators will be required to provide 5G service at a minimum of 10% of their existing network sites. The 5G service is expected to offer speeds 14 to 15 times faster than current network speeds in areas where it is available.
PTA has confirmed that the 5G network will be backward compatible. This means that users without 5G-enabled devices will still be able to access uninterrupted 4G services in 5G-enabled areas.
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