Aiming to boost technology adoption across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the agreement will harness Ericsson’s latest portfolio of offerings. This includes 5G hardware and software, cloud-native solutions, advanced managed services and infrastructure and network support.

Through their expanded partnership, stc is positioned to drive new levels of innovation, efficiency and entrepreneurship. Features like 5G Standalone network slicing will enable differentiated connectivity, the companies said, to create a wide range of business opportunities and use cases across both consumer and enterprise segments in Saudi Arabia.

“This long-term agreement with Ericsson reinforces stc’s commitment to driving digital transformation and innovation in Saudi Arabia,” said Abdullah M. Alowini, supply chain VP at stc Group. “By leveraging advanced technologies, we aim to deliver cutting-edge connectivity that empowers our customers, accelerates enterprise innovation and supports the Kingdom’s ambition to build a globally competitive digital economy.”

stc Group and Ericsson have been partners for some time, having achieved a successful deployment of one of the country’s first 5G networks in 2019. Under the terms of the new MFA, stc Group will aim to accelerate 5G expansion and the rollout of advanced technologies like 5G Standalone, 5G Advanced, Massive MIMO, Ericsson Radio System products, cloud-native platforms and network management solutions.

Additionally, stc Group will benefit from Ericsson’s Managed Services capabilities to optimise network performance. It also supports stc Group’s requirements for a scalable, resilient and future-ready mobile network, advancing digital inclusion and next-generation technology adoption across the country.

The strengthening of this partnership aligns with stc Group’s long-term strategic vision, including 6G readiness and cognitive self-optimising networks. Ericsson said the agreement also reinforces stc Group’s role in advancing national priorities around digital infrastructure, public safety networks and digital inclusion to increase national, regional and global competitiveness.

“We know how committed stc Group is to ensure that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 becomes a reality,” added Håkan Cervell, vice president and head of Ericsson Saudi Arabia.

“We share that commitment and will continue to work closely and productively with stc to deliver digital infrastructure to drive innovation and economic competitiveness goals – both for stc as a valued customer and for the vital role they have to make Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 a reality.”

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