Salam posts nearly 25% annual growth, eyes new markets: CEO

Ahmed Al-Anqari, CEO of Etihad Salam Telecom Co. (Salam)

Ahmed Al-Anqari, CEO of Etihad Salam Telecom Co. (Salam), reported significant growth in 2023, with an annual increase of nearly 25%, and is looking to achieve even greater growth in 2025 by entering new markets and expanding its services, particularly for small businesses.

In an interview with Argaam on the sidelines of LEAP 2025, Al-Anqari said that Salam owns a 5G network for fixed services, comprising about 1,100 towers, which enhances its ability to serve individuals and the business sector. He pointed out that the telecommunications sector is undergoing rapid transformations with technologies such as cloud computing and cybersecurity, pushing the company to offer innovative solutions that meet market demands.

He also noted that the Saudi market is witnessing major investments in artificial intelligence and data centers, representing both a challenge and an opportunity amid increasing competition and market growth. Salam is focusing on services that go beyond traditional connectivity, such as cloud solutions and managed services.

Al-Anqari highlighted that the competitive environment is tough, with several challenges, the most significant being the entry of new competitors and large foreign companies into the market.

He mentioned that Salam is a closed joint-stock company founded in 2005, which has achieved rapid growth and profitability over the years. The company is striving for further expansion and development and has invested 2 billion SAR over the past five years in fiber optics and 5G technology.

The company is undergoing a major transformation from a traditional telecommunications provider to a technology company that supports digital transformation, achieving growth that exceeds market rates over the past five years. Its strategy for the next three years focuses on offering innovative solutions, expanding its services, and establishing new partnerships.

The company, which has obtained a license from the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), provides a range of services for individuals, businesses, and government sectors. Initially, its focus was on government and banking sectors, partnering with entities such as the Ministry of Health and King Abdulaziz City, before expanding into fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) services for individuals. As part of the broadband initiative, it has connected services to over 600,000 homes.

Additionally, Salam entered the mobile services market two years ago through the MVNO license, becoming a fully integrated telecom provider.