Jazz launches 5G services after securing PTA licence, rollout begins in major cities

ISLAMABAD: Jazz officially launched 5G services after securing the Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) licence from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), marking a shift in digital connectivity with rollout in major cities, faster speeds and increased competition among telecom operators

The license agreement was signed by DG Licensing PTA Brig. (Retd.) Aamir Shahzad and CEO Jazz Aamir Ibrahim at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Chairman PTA Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Hafeez Ur Rehman, and senior leadership from both public and private sectors.

In the initial rollout phase, 5G services are already live across around 180 sites, covering Islamabad, all provincial capitals, and major metropolitan hubs including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, and Faisalabad.

Leveraging a strengthened spectrum portfolio, Jazz is offering ultra-fast speeds, low latency, and enhanced network reliability. The company is simultaneously expanding and upgrading its 4G footprint to ensure more inclusive connectivity nationwide.

Speaking at the launch, CEO Jazz Aamir Ibrahim said the development marks the beginning of a new digital era for Pakistan, unlocking innovation, economic opportunity, and technological advancement. He emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering reliable connectivity while ensuring inclusive access across the country.

Jazz emerged as the only operator in the recent spectrum auction to secure spectrum across all key bands—700 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3500 MHz—positioning it to deliver both wide coverage and high-capacity performance through a multi-layered network.

The launch is backed by a recently announced $1 billion investment commitment, adding to over $11 billion invested in Pakistan over the past three decades. Through its digital platform, Jazz now serves more than 100 million users, enabling them to learn, earn, transact, and thrive in an increasingly connected world.

Other Operators’ 5G Status:

Following the spectrum auction, Zong has also launched 5G services in multiple major cities, enhancing competition and expanding advanced connectivity options for users. Ufone, meanwhile, has not yet formally launched commercial 5G services, though it is expected to announce rollout plans and target cities in the near future.

The development follows the successful completion of Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction, marking a critical step in the country’s digital evolution and setting the stage for wider adoption of advanced connectivity technologies.

Following the spectrum auction, Zong has also switched on 5G in multiple major cities, ramping up competition and giving Pakistani users more high-speed connectivity options. Ufone, meanwhile, has yet to launch commercial 5G, but the operator is expected to roll out services in key cities soon, keeping the race for next-generation digital dominance alive.