PCCW Global, Sparkle, Telecom Egypt, and ZOI Collaborate on AAE-2 Cable
Deal News | Jun 12, 2025 | Zawya

In a significant endeavor to boost global connectivity, four major subsea cable operators – PCCW Global, Sparkle, Telecom Egypt, and Zain Omantel International (ZOI) – have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop the Asia-Africa-Europe-2 (AAE-2) subsea cable system. This next-generation cable will connect major hubs from Hong Kong and Singapore to Italy, traversing through Thailand, the Arabian Peninsula, and Egypt. The AAE-2 aims to satisfy the burgeoning demand for high-capacity internet services, supporting cloud computing, content delivery, and digital transformations in the regions. The project is intended to provide a more geographically diverse and resilient transmission path, integrating terrestrial and subsea infrastructures. The AAE-2 symbolizes a collaborative commitment from the operators to support business growth, improve data transfer speeds, and strengthen regional networks. Each partner plays a core role, with an emphasis on expanding economic opportunities and technological advancements throughout Asia, Africa, and Europe, continuing their efforts from the first AAE cable system.
Sectors
- Telecommunications
- Infrastructure
Geography
- Asia – The subsea cable will connect major hubs in Asia, including Hong Kong and Singapore.
- Africa – The project involves major sites in Africa, notably around the Arabian Peninsula and Egypt.
- Europe – The subsea cable connection extends to Europe, expected to land in Italy.
Industry
- Telecommunications – This industry is relevant as the article discusses the construction of a subsea cable system aimed at improving global telecommunications connectivity.
- Infrastructure – The article involves the development of physical infrastructure, specifically the subsea cable system that spans multiple continents.
Financials
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PCCW Global | Consortium Member | Company | A leading digital infrastructure provider involved in the AAE-2 project, empowering businesses with secure connectivity solutions. |
Sparkle | Consortium Member | Company | A major telecommunications operator and part of the TIM Group, contributing to the AAE-2 cable system with a vast network in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. |
Telecom Egypt | Consortium Member | Company | A total telecom operator in Egypt, providing comprehensive services and with significant stakes in subsea cable infrastructure. |
Zain Omantel International (ZOI) | Consortium Member | Company | A joint venture serving as a major player in telecommunications, specifically focused on wholesale services in the Middle East. |