Earlier this week I wrote about the rapid rise in mobile phone penetration in emerging markets and the resulting impact on poverty reduction. Now a first-of-its-kind report titled “Mobility for One Language, Diverse Cultures” details the socio-economic impact of mobile phones in the Arab world.

Its conclusion: the mobile phone industry in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs inside and outside the industry, boosting economic growth and fostering social harmony and security.

Economic Impact
With a 2005 penetration rate standing at nearly 25% - compared to 15% in 2003 – mobile phones have become a big driver for economic development and job creation. The report reveals that for every job created in the mobile sector in Egypt, up to eight other jobs are created in different sectors of the economy. As a