The ultra-fast, high-capacity data streams opened up by the fifth generation of wireless telecommunications technology (5G) will enable transformational technologies ranging from artificial intelligence to autonomous vehicles.

Around the world, we are seeing the roll out of 5G networks. The first contracts have been placed and 2020 is set to be the year that 5G takes off.

The coming decade will see a wave of investment in 5G, with wealthy Middle East states such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE at the forefront.

But the development of 5G will not be uniformly spread over the next 10 years.

The initial phase of investment will see the development of the network infrastructure needed for 5G. This will be followed by a surge of investment in end-use applications, ranging from smart cities to holographic communication and many other uses still to be conceived. A peak in investment is expected by around 2025.

The pace of investment will depend on what is in place. 5G capacity sits on top of 4G networks. Markets with established long-term evolution (LTE) infrastructure, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, will move fastest, while others will continue to struggle to develop 4G.

Left unmanaged, 5G will increase the divide between the region’s haves and have nots, with countries such as the UAE moving ahead while Egypt, Jordan, Iraq and others fall further behind.

Even more troubling is the growing chasm between the region’s urban and rural populations. In countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Algeria, there are large rural youth populations who are becoming increasingly disenfranchised within society and the modern economy.

Inclusivity must be a top priority when it comes to 5G network planning.

More from this month's Agenda

• Main Agenda: 5G to feed Mena region’s need for speed
• Expert opinion: What 5G in the Middle East means for business
• 5G investment: 5G means a step change for telecoms network services
• Infographic: Caching in on connectivity