What KEMS Zajil Telecom does

KEMS Zajil Telecom is a Kuwait-headquartered, privately held managed ICT and connectivity operator and a subsidiary of Bahrain-based Kalaam Telecom Group. Founded in 1991 as the first Internet Service Provider licensed by Kuwait's CITRA, the company today serves approximately 5,000+ enterprise, SME, government, and consumer customers across Kuwait and the broader GCC through a full-stack portfolio spanning connectivity, cloud, cybersecurity, managed networks, unified communications, and ICT project deployment. Notable reference customers include the Kuwaiti Ministry of Education (national bus GPS project), Ministry of Interior, Gulf Bank, and oil sector enterprises, with regional exposure via Kalaam Group's F1 motorsport broadcast partnership with Riedel Networks.

The company's technology stack is built on owned and operated infrastructure: a 100 Gbps DWDM national backbone expandable to 400 Gbps, GPON fiber access, MPLS/GMPLS/IPLC/AVPN enterprise data networking, Managed SD-WAN, Managed WiFi and routers, a Tier III data center in Kuwait with a secondary site, and the Kalaam Group-owned KNOT terrestrial fiber system across Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar combined with the EIG submarine cable spanning 12 countries from India to Europe. The 2024 launch of the Kalaam Iraq Transit Route adds a terrestrial GCC-to-Europe corridor that bypasses Red Sea submarine cable risks. Cloud and security capabilities are delivered through formal partnerships with Huawei (DWDM/OTN, next-gen cloud), Google Cloud, Microsoft (Azure, Office 365, Copilot), CrowdStrike (Falcon AI endpoint security), Broadcom/MBCOM, and Quadron.

Revenue is generated primarily through recurring subscription and managed-services contracts across connectivity, cloud, cybersecurity, voice/UC, and data center services, supplemented by project-based ICT deployment revenue (in-building fiber, ELV, CCTV, fleet GPS). Pricing is quote-based for enterprise and SME segments with multi-year terms and SLA-backed 24/7 support; consumer pricing is published. Go-to-market combines direct enterprise field sales, inside sales for SMEs, and partner co-selling with global technology vendors. The company rebranded in 2023 from an ISP into a 'Digital Solutions Partner' and operates under ISO 9001/27001/22301/14001/45001/20000 and PCI-DSS certifications.

Name

KEMS Zajil Telecom

Legal name

Gulfnet International Company – KEMS (شركه شبكه الخليج الدوليه كيمز)

Website

https://kems.net

Company type

Private

Founded year

1991

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

251–500 employees

Short description

KEMS Zajil Telecom is a Kuwaiti managed ICT and connectivity operator serving 5,000+ enterprise, government, SME, and consumer customers across Kuwait and the GCC via owned fiber, a Tier III data center, and partnerships with Huawei, Google, Microsoft, and CrowdStrike.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Telecommunications and Managed ICT Services

NAICS

Wired Telecommunications Carriers (517111), All Other Telecommunications (517810), Satellite Telecommunications (5174)

SIC

Communications Services, Nec (4899), Services-Telephone Interconnect Systems (7385), Computer Communications Equipment (3576)

akta.pro primary industry

IoT Connectivity Management (Private APN, SIM/eSIM, Device Connectivity) (HDAIAGAG)

akta.pro secondary industries

Satellite IoT & Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Connectivity (LPWAN over Satellite) (HDAIAJAF), Industrial/IoT Network Perimeter Security (OT DMZ, gateways) (HDADABAO), Wi‑Fi IoT & Device Onboarding/Provisioning (802.1X, DPSK, MDM integrations) (HDAFACAL)

Keywords

• Managed ICT services
• Enterprise connectivity
• Cloud infrastructure services
• Network security solutions
• Data center services

Headquarters

HQ city

Kuwait City

HQ country

Kuwait

HQ region

Middle East

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B and B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Infrastructure, Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Connectivity Services: Recurring subscription and usage-based charges for internet access (GPON, ADSL, DIA), data networking (MPLS, GMPLS, IPLC, AVPN), and VSAT services for enterprise, SME, and consumer segments. Revenue is generated through monthly/annual subscriptions with SLA-backed service delivery.
2. Managed ICT Services: Recurring managed services revenue from SD-WAN, managed WiFi, managed routers, managed security services, and managed network solutions. Typically bundled with connectivity in enterprise contracts.
3. Cloud Services: Cloud-as-a-Service, private cloud, cloud security, and Cloud Connect services provided through partnerships with Huawei, Google Cloud, and Microsoft. Revenue from cloud infrastructure consumption and platform services.
4. Cybersecurity Solutions: Security consulting, managed security services, network/infrastructure security, data/application security, and endpoint protection via partnerships with CrowdStrike, Broadcom, and Quadron. Provided as managed security services.
5. Voice & Communication Services: Voice services, unified communications, collaboration tools, contact center, and bulk SMS. Revenue from per-seat or per-minute models for enterprise communication needs.
6. ICT Solutions & Projects: One-time and project-based revenue from ICT infrastructure deployment including in-building fiber/GPON, ELV solutions, CCTV solutions, and GPS fleet management. Includes the Ministry of Education bus GPS project and national infrastructure projects.
7. Data Center Services: Co-location, hosting, disaster recovery, backup, and storage services from KEMS Zajil's Tier III data center facility in Kuwait.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

KEMS Zajil Telecom is a Kuwait-based integrated telecom and digital solutions provider offering connectivity (GPON fiber, MPLS/GMPLS/IPLC/AVPN, SD-WAN, Managed DIA), cloud services (private/sovereign cloud, Cloud-as-a-Service, Cloud Connect), cybersecurity (managed security, CrowdStrike Falcon integration), managed networks, unified communications, and ICT deployment (in-building fiber, ELV, CCTV) for enterprise, SME, government, and consumer customers. It operates a Tier III data center in Kuwait, a 100 Gbps DWDM backbone, the KNOT terrestrial fiber system, the EIG submarine cable, and the Kalaam Iraq Transit Route as core infrastructure assets.

Product overview

KEMS Zajil Telecom operates as a comprehensive digital solutions provider offering a modular portfolio of integrated services. The core offering spans connectivity infrastructure (GPON fiber, Business Fiber, Managed DIA, MPLS, IPLC) paired with specialized modules including cloud solutions (Private Cloud, Cloud Security, Cloud Connect, Microsoft Azure, AWS), unified communications (Voice, UC, Collaboration, Contact Center), managed networks (SD-WAN, Managed WiFi, Managed Routers), cybersecurity (Network Security, Data Security, Managed Security, CrowdStrike integration), and ICT solutions (In-Building Fiber, ELV, CCTV, Data Center, IoT). The portfolio includes specialized offerings for enterprise, SME (with Huawei eKit), government, banking, real estate, and retail sectors, alongside consumer services (GPON, Gaming Internet, KIDZONET, Educational Services, Smarter Home). The company positions itself as a one-stop digital transformation partner leveraging 30+ years of telecom experience in Kuwait.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network)

Quantifiable outcome

• Best Round Trip Delay (RTD) between GCC and Europe via Kalaam Iraq Transit Route
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers8 records

Segments7 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration4 records

AI capability7 records

Feature9 records

Partnerships

Ten partnerships are on record, tiered minor, core and strategic.

• CapitaminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting Partner · 1 June 2025KEMS Zajil Telecom signed an MoU with Capita during London Tech Week 2025 to explore collaboration in managed services delivery.
• CrowdStrikecoreTechnology or Integration · 1 November 2024KEMS Zajil Telecom partnered with CrowdStrike to enhance its cybersecurity portfolio, integrating the CrowdStrike Falcon AI-powered platform to provide proactive threat detection, cloud endpoint protection, and incident response services. The partnership was formalized at GITEX 2024 in the UAE. The goal is to elevate cybersecurity standards across Kuwait and the region for enterprise and government clients.
• MBCOM Technologies (Broadcom Representative)strategicTechnology or Integration · 1 November 2024KEMS Zajil Telecom signed an MoU with MBCOM Technologies, the exclusive representative of Broadcom in the region, to strengthen digital infrastructure and cybersecurity across the Middle East. The collaboration focuses on enterprise solutions in network optimization, cloud services, and cybersecurity, leveraging Broadcom's infrastructure and cybersecurity software portfolio.
• QuadronstrategicTechnology or Integration · 1 October 2024KEMS Zajil Telecom partnered with Quadron Cybersecurity Services to deliver cybersecurity solutions in Kuwait, with a focus on the human element — turning employees from potential vulnerabilities into a key line of cyber defense through training and awareness programs.
• ITPC (Iraqi General Company for Telecommunications and Information)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 14 April 2024Zajil Telecom (KEMS Zajil's parent entity) signed a long-term strategic partnership with ITPC to create the 'Kalaam Iraq Transit Route,' the first alternative terrestrial route for telecom traffic connecting the GCC to Europe via Iraq and Turkey. This route provides lower latency, higher security, greater flexibility, and better performance than Red Sea submarine cable routes.
• MicrosoftstrategicTechnology or Integration · 1 April 2024KEMS Zajil Telecom and Microsoft co-hosted an AI innovations conference in Kuwait, showcasing the latest AI and modern data platform solutions. The partnership aims to enable Kuwaiti enterprises with AI-powered tools for predictive analytics, intelligent automation, and digital transformation. KEMS Zajil uses a consultative approach tailored to SMEs, government agencies, and large enterprises.
• Google CloudcoreTechnology or Integration · 1 March 2024KEMS Zajil Telecom entered a strategic partnership with Google Cloud to enhance cloud offerings for government and enterprise customers in Kuwait. The partnership supports Kuwait's national digital transformation agenda, leveraging Google Cloud's infrastructure and AI/ML capabilities. KEMS Zajil serves as Google's cloud intermediary partner in Kuwait.
• Riedel NetworksstrategicTechnology or Integration · 1 February 2024Kalaam Group (parent of KEMS Zajil) renewed its partnership with Riedel Networks for the second consecutive year to provide connectivity for the world's largest motorsport series (F1) across Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE. KEMS Zajil supports this partnership as Kalaam Group's Kuwait subsidiary. The solution uses KNOT terrestrial fiber and EIG submarine cable for low-latency connectivity.
• Huawei Technologies KuwaitcoreTechnology or Integration · 2 November 2023KEMS Zajil Telecom partnered with Huawei Kuwait for next-generation network transformation, deploying DWDM technology with capacities up to 400 Gbps across Kuwait. The partnership aims to upgrade KEMS Zajil's transport network infrastructure and deliver improved customer service through cutting-edge optical transport network (OTN) technology. KEMS Zajil and Huawei also collaborated to launch next-generation cloud services in Kuwait, supporting digital transformation for enterprises.
• TeluxstrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 November 2023KEMS Zajil Telecom partnered with Telux (a wireless and GPS technology provider) to implement the Ministry of Education bus GPS project in Kuwait. Telux contributes wireless and GPS expertise while KEMS Zajil leads the overall project execution under the Public Transport Company of Kuwait initiative.

Scale indicators9 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights7 records

Regional players

• du (Emirates Integrated Telecommunications): UAE-based MNO with strong enterprise ICT and government business. Comparable because it serves the same GCC enterprise and government accounts with managed connectivity, cloud, and cybersecurity solutions.
• Mobily (Etihad Etisalat): Major Saudi MNO with sizable enterprise and ICT business serving Saudi government, banking, and oil & gas sectors. Comparable because it targets the same regional enterprise/government segments as KEMS Zajil via Kalaam Group, albeit primarily in Saudi Arabia.
• Integrated Telecom Company (ITC) Saudi Arabia: Saudi enterprise-focused ICT and managed services provider serving government and large enterprises with connectivity, cloud, and security. Comparable to KEMS Zajil in enterprise positioning and government focus but operating primarily in Saudi Arabia.
• Vodafone Qatar: Qatari MNO with enterprise and government business. Comparable as a regional GCC telecom competitor serving enterprise/government customers across multiple verticals, much like KEMS Zajil in its home market.
• Batelco Bahrain: Bahrain-headquartered regional telecom operator with enterprise and government focus across MENA. Comparable as a regional fixed-line and enterprise ICT competitor and potential cross-border partner via Kalaam Group's Bahrain HQ.

Direct peers

• Gulf Bridge International (GBI): MENA-focused submarine cable operator providing regional carrier and enterprise connectivity. Comparable because both operate owned international fiber/cable assets and serve carriers/enterprises with international data networking solutions in the GCC.
• Zain Kuwait: Kuwait's largest MNO with significant enterprise and government ICT services overlapping directly with KEMS Zajil's enterprise connectivity, cloud, and managed services portfolio. Both target Kuwaiti enterprises, banks, ministries, and SMEs with bundled telecom+ICT solutions.
• STC Kuwait: Saudi-owned MNO operating in Kuwait with a growing enterprise division. Directly comparable to KEMS Zajil on enterprise connectivity, cloud, and managed services for Kuwaiti corporate and government customers.
• Ooredoo Kuwait: Kuwaiti MNO competing head-on with KEMS Zajil across enterprise connectivity, cloud, cybersecurity, and managed services, serving the same government and enterprise accounts in Kuwait with similar one-stop-shop positioning.
• Quality Net: Kuwaiti ISP and ICT provider offering enterprise connectivity, cloud, and managed services. Identified as a direct comparable because both are Kuwait-domiciled ISPs with overlapping enterprise and government client bases (Quality Net's former CEO is now KEMS Zajil's CEO).

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/zajil-int'l-telecom

Compliance9 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles3 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about KEMS Zajil Telecom