VEON’s Strategic Upskilling Play: A Telecom Giant’s Path to Dominance in 5G and IoT

In an era where 5G, IoT, and cybersecurity are reshaping the telecom landscape, VEON has positioned itself as a disruptor by leveraging its partnership with GSMA Advance. This strategic alliance isn’t just about technology—it’s about workforce upskilling, a catalyst that’s enabling VEON to close skill gaps, accelerate innovation, and secure its place as a leader in high-growth markets. With its relocation to Dubai’s tech-centric ecosystem, VEON is now primed to capitalize on digital transformation trends like never before.

The Power of Upskilling: Bridging the Tech Divide

VEON’s partnership with GSMA Advance provides its workforce with cutting-edge certifications in 5G network security, IoT policy compliance, and quantum-resistant cybersecurity—skills critical to dominating the next wave of telecom innovation. For instance:
- 5G Security Training: Employees gain expertise in securing standalone 5G networks, which are essential for enterprise-grade IoT deployments.
- IoT Policy Mastery: Courses on global IoT regulations ensure VEON can navigate complex compliance frameworks, reducing operational risks.
- Cybersecurity Certifications: Post-quantum cryptography training prepares teams to defend against emerging threats, a must in an era of escalating cyberattacks.

These programs aren’t just academic—they’re actionable: GSMA’s “Security in 5G” course, priced at $500 per participant, equips engineers with tools to mitigate vulnerabilities in real-time. Meanwhile, the 5G and Transport Networks program ($790) trains staff to integrate 5G with smart infrastructure, unlocking new revenue streams.

Dubai: A Talent Hub for the Future of Connectivity

VEON’s relocation of its headquarters to Dubai’s Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) isn’t just a geographic shift—it’s a strategic move to access a world-class talent pool. Dubai’s status as a global tech hub, bolstered by initiatives like Nasdaq Dubai and GITEX Global, ensures VEON can recruit top-tier engineers, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts.

This proximity to GSMA events—such as the April 2025 GSMA WAS #21 conference in Dubai—also grants VEON direct access to industry leaders and roaming partners. The event, focused on 5G roaming agreements and network slicing, positions VEON to negotiate partnerships that will fuel its IoT and 5G expansion.

Market Dominance Through Agility

VEON’s dual focus on upskilling and Dubai’s tech ecosystem creates a moat against competitors:
1. Reduced Skill Gaps: Trained teams can deploy advanced 5G and IoT solutions faster, outpacing slower rivals.
2. Enhanced Operational Agility: Certifications in quantum encryption and AI-driven fraud mitigation (via GSMA’s T-ISAC) enable real-time threat responses.
3. First-Mover Advantage: VEON’s pilot projects with the Aina Alliance—developing AI for under-resourced languages—position it as a pioneer in inclusive tech.

Why Invest Now?

• Growth Markets: VEON operates in high-potential regions like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Ukraine, where 5G adoption is surging.
• Cost Efficiency: Dubai’s lower regulatory costs and talent density reduce operational expenses.
• Scalable Model: The partnership with GSMA Advance ensures a pipeline of skilled workers to sustain innovation.

The data speaks for itself: ****. With a $1.4 trillion addressable market by 2030, VEON’s strategic bets on upskilling and Dubai’s ecosystem are poised to deliver outsized returns.

Conclusion: A Play for the Future of Connectivity

VEON isn’t just adapting to the digital era—it’s leading it. By harnessing GSMA Advance’s certifications and Dubai’s talent pool, the company is building a workforce capable of dominating 5G, IoT, and cybersecurity. Investors who act now are betting on a telecom giant that’s not only surviving disruption but driving it.

The question isn’t whether to invest in VEON—it’s whether you can afford to wait.

—Jeanna Smialek

Ask Aime: How will VEON's partnership with GSMA Advance impact the telecom industry?