STC, Nokia sign deal to deploy 5G network in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Telecom Company (STC) and Nokia have signed a deal to deploy a 5G network in the Kingdom, a company statement said on Tuesday.

Nokia’s equipment, software and services will be used to set up a 5G network first in the western and southern part of Saudi Arabia, including Makkah and Madinah.

The rollout phase is already ongoing and is expected to be completed by end of 2020.

Nokia’s full 5G portfolio will provide STC subscribers with ultra-high bandwidth and low latency services, as well as new applications in areas such as virtual reality, augmented reality and artificial intelligence.

Enterprises will benefit from Internet of Things (IoT) vertical use cases enabled by 5G, such as energy, healthcare, education, transport and entertainment; these will not only enhance operational efficiencies and user experiences but provide new revenue opportunities.

The deal involves multiple firsts in STC’s network, including the introduction of cloud RAN and AirScale, as well as the deployment of the Wavence platform in the microwave and the AirScale indoor radio.

“Once completed, our subscribers will be able to enjoy innovative high bandwidth consuming use cases. The project underscores our support and commitment to the National Transformation Plan 2020 and Vision 2030 to drive Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation into a knowledge economy,” Nasser Al-Nasser, STC Group CEO, said.

“Through the Aspiration project, STC has taken a decisive leap into 5G. By helping STC in preparing the network for the introduction of innovative 5G use cases, IoT and smart city services, we also continue to support Saudi Vision 2030,” Federico Guillén, president of Customer Operations, EMEA & APAC at Nokia, said.