LEBANON - Lebanese mobile operator Touch has officially begun the implementation phase of its fifth-generation (5G) mobile network project.

The company announced on July 30 that it had launched the first executive phase of the project in close coordination with the Ministry of Telecommunications. The announcement coincided with the arrival in Beirut of the first shipment of 5G equipment and base stations, signaling the start of field deployment.

According to the company’s deployment roadmap, 15 5G sites equipped with the latest technologies will become operational before the end of August. The initial rollout will cover key areas in Beirut.

Between September and November, Touch plans to activate an additional 60 sites across Beirut, the vicinity of Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, the Greater Beirut Area, Batroun, Byblos, Jounieh, Tripoli and Zahle, among other locations outside the capital.

The company said it would then move to a second phase focused on expanding 5G coverage across Lebanon, including the country’s south, as part of a strategy aimed at ensuring equitable digital access nationwide.

Touch said subscribers with 5G-enabled smartphones in covered areas will be able to access the new network without additional charges or activation procedures. Users will also benefit from seamless transitions between 4G and 5G networks.

The operator emphasized that the 5G project forms part of a broader infrastructure modernization plan. The initiative includes upgrades to 75 additional 4.5G sites and the construction of 75 new sites in rural areas to improve coverage and service quality before the end of the year.

Touch said it would continue working closely with the Ministry of Telecommunications and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) to implement subsequent phases of the project.

The company described the rollout as a strategic investment in Lebanon’s digital future, aimed at supporting digital transformation efforts and contributing to long-term economic growth.